more Natchitoches

While the sports part doesn't mean that much to me, I must admit the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame (above) is a well-designed building and one more interesting physical feature of Natchitoches. Another point of interest on this end of town is Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile (a piece of which can be seen below to the right) - in business since 1863 and at the present location since 1893! Not surprisingly it's the oldest business in the city and a visit inside is like a journey into the past.

Mayeaux's

After all that walking we had a nice dinner at Mayeaux's Steak & Seafood, evidently a local institution. Although it was a challenge, we kept the meal as pescatarian and gluten-free as possible.

Natchitoches stroll, part 2

Turning onto Poete Street, we passed the famous Steel Magnolia House (featured in the movie) and a nice garden. At the other end of the street was the bed and breakfast where Mrs. is said to have stayed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Natchitoches stroll

A stroll down Front Street, which becomes Jefferson Street.

 

historic Natchitoches, LA

Not only is Natchitoches, LA older than New Orleans - founded in 1714 vs. 1718 - but it is said to be the oldest settlement in the entire Louisiana Purchase. A sister city - Nacogdoches, TX - was founded by the Spanish in 1716. Both cities derive their names from related regional native tribes. 

Cane River Lake

The Cane River Lake runs through historic downtown Natchitoches, LA. It's the town's main natural feature and while it resembles a river, it's actually an oxbow lake - a piece of the larger Red River that over time got cut off. A lovely promenade runs the length of the downtown area.

Church Street Inn

Where we stayed in Natchitoches, LA. The building was originally a bank. It seems that a lot of buildings were originally banks before they became something else. No one is talking about this. In any case, the Church Street Inn did a good job making the transition.

Well+Fed Louisiana

Who knew that there was a 100% vegan and gluten-free restaurant in the middle of Shreveport, Louisiana? Google knew, and the GPS directed us to the place. It was real, and went by the name Well+Fed Louisiana. The glimpse of downtown Shreveport was an added bonus.

When I was a young man, I asked my brother, "What if Shreveport, LA were the capital of the entire U.S.?" He didn't really have an answer, and I hadn't even set foot in the city until this day of the unexpected, unplanned vegan, gluten-free restaurant.

Alley Cats Coffee Bar

Texarkana is a bit confusing because the city is both in Texas and Arkansas. We stopped at Alley Cats, a neat new coffee shop housed in a some railroad cars at what apparently was once the Texarkana Station. Which state? Were I not able to Google the question and verify that we were in Arkansas, I would have no idea. As it turns out, this sea of pavement was a mere stone's throw from Texas.

Texarkana

These photos capture the feel of downtown Texarkana. The feel was a bit "Beaumonty", suggesting an old Texas city with wide streets and a forgotten downtown, whereas actually we were in Arkansas, suggesting that Texas is capable of spilling into other states. Looking at the map, we were a mere stone's throw from Texas, and the only thing separating the two states in this sea of pavement is a street called "State Line Avenue". 

Paris, TX

While to me neither Paris, France nor Paris, Texas are perfect, I do like living in a world where cities can have fun playing off their namesakes. From that point of view I give this playful, distinctly Texan Eiffel Tower an A+.

Wichita Falls, TX

 

It took me six decades but I finally got around to setting foot in Wichita Falls, TX. If you're ever passing through I can recommend the 8th Street Coffee House for lunch and a coffee. Located in the heart of the downtown, it has the look and the feel of a bank - which perhaps it once was.

Goodnight, TX

 

Before people flip out that there is a place called Goodnight, Texas - population 18 - they need to understand that it is named after Charles Goodnight (1836-1929) who owned a cattle ranch in this area. Charles Goodnight was a pioneering cattleman who, among other things, invented the chuckwagon and helped preserve the native bison population.

World of Hyatt

As far as chain hotels go, the World of Hyatt and their Hyatt Place hotels are not half bad, as this one in Amarillo, TX proved to be. They were out of coffee creamer, but offered almond milk instead. How's that for a happy accident?

Bishop's Lodge

Also on the edge of Santa Fe, down the road seen below, is the Bishop's Lodge - the former country retreat of Bishop Jean Baptiste Lamy, now a resort. His chapel, built in 1847, still stands. One wonders what the independently-minded Frenchman would make of the place now, although I would assure him that he could get excellent fish tacos at the restaurant, Skyfire.

 

Antieau Gallery

An up close and personal look at the amazing work of Chris Roberts-Antieau as seen at her Santa Fe, NM gallery (as opposed to the one in New Orleans).

Kakáwa Chocolate House

It sure took me long enough but I finally made it to Santa Fe's famous Kakáwa Chocolate House. Indeed it was worth the wait and all it was cracked up to be. My demi-tasse of liquid chocolate - and whatever was in it - knocked my socks off. I think it was just the sheer quality of the chocolate shining through. Along with that I tried one of the most interesting tasting brownies I've ever crossed paths with. I highly recommend this place.