A Christmas trip to Texas is just what the doctor ordered for this confirmed northerner. The weather has been glorious, perfect for morning coffee and reading on the patio and a day wandering the Museum District of Houston with 'da kids. There's no time for painting and that's ok.
Visiting art museums with teenage grandchildren is a rare and special thing. Amazingly, there were no "I'm so bored"moments and plenty of "that's so cool" moments. We all loved the Art Car Museum in downtown Houston in the Montrose area. It was so accessible (they even allowed you to photograph the art) and didn't take itself too seriously, a perfect art experience for teenage grandkids (and antsy husbands). The beer can house down the street made beautiful music in the breeze, though its inclusion in the "art" category may be questionable.
On our museum day, we also discovered the DeMenil Collection, an amazing museum of modern art collected by the architect and his wife. Included in the museum complex were several other buildings, including the Rothko Chapel and reflecting pool and a Byzantine Fresco Chapel exhibit. What an amazing collection, including everything from Picasso to Pollack to a 5th century icon exhibit. I think the grandkids enjoyed it too, if for no other reason than the opportunity to make irreverent remarks about the art. Kids are so great.
There has even been time to read an entire book this week. Kelly recommended for my Christmas vacation read, The Tenth Song by Naomi Ragen. There's something a little amazing about finding just the right book at just the right time in your life. I think they call that 'serendipity.' Some books really change the way you think about life and others confirm a direction that your heart and head have already been leading you. This one was the confirming/affirming kind. Ragen's books have so many layers. I'm sure many people could find themselves identifying with her characters at some level.
All the things that make for a happy grandma are here.... grandkids, art museums, funny beer can houses, sunny days antique shopping in Old Town Spring, really good food, soccer and basketball games, and my rockstar husband who for supper last night, made the best curry soup and crabcakes, assisted by sous' chef, Maranda. Life is good in Texas. But I miss you, Minnesota.
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