Russell Rhodes Blog

Getting away for a minute.

The last few weeks have been tough. Tough on a lot of people because of the hurricanes and their damage. Tough on all of us to just go through it.

My damage is slight compared to others. Because of the circumstances, it’s been addressed quickly. I’m lucky. I can see normalcy soon. Others, not so much. I don’t know when or if that will happen. Breaks my heart.

A few weeks ago, I got an email telling me I had not taken enough vacation this year. If I didn’t, I would start losing vacation hours. Before the hurricanes, I booked a trip home to Texas.

Unsure if I would or should take it off, my managers said, “Go. It will all be here when you get back.” So, I’m on a tour of Texas.

First stop, San Antonio. I worked here from 1985 until 1992. Fun times. I was young. San Antonio is a great place to be when you are young.

I haven’t been here for a long time. Trying to figure out what I miss most about this city. The Alamo and the Texas history? The Riverwalk? Or is it the Tex-Mex cuisine? Oh, it’s the Tex-Mex. Lots of Tex-Mex these last few days. Lots.

I also miss my friend Matthew. We were thick as thieves when we lived here 35 years ago. He’s been away for awhile too. We stay in touch, but getting to see him in person again is a balm for my soul. We won’t be apart like that ever again.

I needed this break. My brain was tired. Feeling a little guilty that I left at such a rough time, but there it is.

What else have I missed about San Antonio? Margaritas. Yes, we have them back in Tampa, but somehow they taste better here.

I’m taking a few more days. Next stop, my hometown of Paris, Texas. I’ll report back on that.

More to come.