As a Seattle native, moving to Texas two years ago was far less culture shock than I expected. Yes, it’s decidedly a new planet, but hey–it’s a friendly one, dadgummit. We’re in a university town, so it’s got great used bookstores and welcoming watering-holes and a hint of Bohemia around the edges, and while the new terrain is ocean-free here in the north part of the state and the closest I’ll get to mountain hiking nearby will be if I sneak up a water tower to survey the rolling flats, it’s countryside with its own kind of beauty.

Still, having family and friends visit us here is a fine excuse to explore a little of the legendary Texas and larn me some wild-west history along the way. Naturally, I find I’m inclined to play with the yarns of yore in my imagery as well, so I shall present you with a glimpse of the same herewith.

Lassoed by the Lone Star