TUESDAY TREASURES {07.07.2015}

In honor of this beautifully hot Texas summer, I wanted to share some of my favorite Texas hidden gems. Maybe you've been wanting to plan a "stay-cation" but haven't figured out where you want to go. Maybe, you're like me, and are tired of driving to Galveston or Kemah and want something different. Here are five hidden gems throughout the great state of Texas.

 

 

1. Medina River

 

With cypress trees, the winding and gorgeous Medina River could be called the most beautiful river in Texas. It typically doesn't attract the large crowds like the Guadalupe or Frio River, which means it's perfect for relaxation and feeling like you aren't even in Texas. The best way to access this gorgeous river is by driving to Bandera. Be sure to bring your tent or camper because you won't want to leave after one day. Also, be sure to check water reports before visiting.

  

 

 

2. Jacob's Well

 

This gorgeous, 30-foot-deep artesian spring is growing in popularity and I know exactly why. Just looking through photos you can tell this place is the top spot for a "stay-cation." Located just north of Wimberly, Jacob's Well has become very popular with divers. Although, it is not recommended due to the amount of diver's who have lost their lives from the false exits. This would be the perfect get away and is a perfect example of a "hidden gem."

3. Gorman Falls

This incredibly, dream-like hidden gem is located within Colorado Bend State Park, just northwest of Austin. With 60-foot-tall waterfalls creating a lush green canyon, this stop will remind you more of Hawaii then Texas. Although the dry seasons will likely disappoint, it's a perfect time during the summer and you don't want to miss out on all the beauty this gem has to offer.

 

 

 

4. Hamilton Pool

 

This hidden oasis is becoming more and more popular. Located west of Austin, visitors will walk a short trail through a stream-fed canyon that will lead you to this one-of-a-kind grotto. Being that this beautiful location is known to be one of the best swimming holes in Texas, you will likely see hordes of crowds, but if you head there early enough on a weekday you will avoid the crowds and can enjoy Hamilton Pool all to yourself.

5. Krause Springs

Saving my personal favorite for last! Krause Springs is one of the absolute best hidden gems in Texas. Located in Spicewood about 30 miles west of Austin, this stunning location boast camping, a rope swing, butterfly garden, and swimming holes galore. Most weekends you will have plenty of room to enjoy some quality "stay-cation" family time, but during the holidays, such as July 4, arrive early to get your spot as Krause Springs will fill up fast. Camping in tents does not require a reservation, but if you're bringing your camper, you will need to reach out and reserve your spot. You won't regret spending a weekend or two here!

Thanks for checking out this week's edition of Tuesday Treasures.

 

God Bless Texas and all the beautiful hidden gems. Have you've visited one of these gems before? If not, add them to your "must visit" bucket list.

 

LIFE LATELY:ON EDGE {06.25.2015}

Life these past few days has really been pushing us over the edge. We have had to deal with car issues all week and other things steadily testing our patience this week. But, all of that is about to change. Well for one, God is in control of everything so I do believe that He sees our struggles and is right beside us waiting for His chance to step in.

 

 The other thing is, I have a very fun surprise for E this weekend.With all the stress I knew we would need to do something to get away. A "stay-cation!" It's been a long time since we have been able to do a "stay-cation," mostly due to time restraints, I mean Texas is HUGE so to drive anywhere takes hours. I most likely will not be able to post until Sunday but I will be posting Friday morning.

 

Oh, in regards to Crossfit, I know I kind of left you hanging there. Well, we had to cancel the Wednesday appointment due to my Jeep Liberty deciding to completely lock me out. Apparently, from what we are being told without diagnostic being run, the computer system in the car is not cooperating with the key's chip. I guess my vehicle thought that I was trying to break in and shut down the whole car. We had to have it towed on Wednesday evening back to the dealership where we purchased it. Currently they are running eleven diagnostic checks and we should hear something by Friday...(fingers crossed)! I just hope that the news is good. We have a lifetime warranty that we got when we bought the vehicle but now they are playing games by saying that "the issue may or may not be covered under the warranty, we will just have to wait and see." Which is bologna! So, it's just a waiting a game at this point.

 

Anyways, we are rescheduled for Crossfit for Monday. Due to the high stress this week, we have only gone to the gym once...(insert shocking sound). If you know anything about E and I, it's that we love the gym! Missing one day is like the world ending, so you can imagine the fear and terror we feel missing multiple days, but right now we are just too stressed and are dealing with so much that we really do not have time. Most of our time is spent trying to stay calm, make phone calls, plan and arrange things, the list right now is endless.