Our holiday in San Antonio, Texas
(Saturday, 6th May 2006)
I woke up at 9am this morning (Karen was already up and out of bed). Last night it rained and there are clouds hanging around, which rules out outdoor activities. Apparently the storm ripped some roofs off last night. Mark made pancakes for us in the morning. Sufficiently fuelled, we headed for Walmart.
I bet this lion didn't envision ending up here!
Elaina and Mark's lounge
Elaina's vehicle
Walmart
Walmart is a shopping centre known for its low prices. There's a number of things South Africa's retail stores could learn from Walmart. On checking out the customer swipes his card (doesn't give it to the cashier) and signs electronically. Our cashier had a 4 star shirt on, signalling his prowess. There are a number of shops within the shop - a bank, a McDonalds.
Walmart Supercenter
The land of the big cars
If I had my Toyota Yaris Spirit here, it would be the smallest car on the streets of the USA. I have not seen a smaller car anywhere around. Big 4 wheel drive vehicles are the order of the day. I can understand how this would make the price of petrol a big issue. In an accident the person with the heavier car is less likely to get injured, because the momentum would keep the bigger car going in its direction. So, it's difficult to be the first person to buy the smaller car as you are putting yourself at bigger risk.
Fredericksburg
We stopped off in Fredericksburg, a German town which is something of a tourist trap. There were loads of bikers there, many riding Harley Davidsons.
A group of bikers in Fredericksburg
The bikers go for their weekend rides and then drink beer at a town like Fredericksburg before driving home (life is difficult but it's more difficult if you're stupid).
Riding with my babe!
A bunch of choppers
Fredericksburg is made up of a number of old buildings (old in the USA means over 100 years old).
Fredericksburg building with the Texas flag flying above it
Old Building in Fredericksburg 
Keidel Memorial Hospital in Fredericksburg 
Old Building in Fredericksburg 