Sometimes a quick getaway is just what you need to reconnect and reset. A couple weeks ago, we headed to Texas to visit Rob’s Dad and Step Mom in Huntsville. Though plans for them to move closer are still on hold, we felt it was time for a visit—and this short trip gave us a chance to catch up, explore, and soak in a little Lone Star charm.
Friday
We took a half day on Friday to get to the airport and get to Houston at a decent hour. Of course, there were delays. We did get lunch at the airport at TGIFriday’s.
We were getting close to landing, but then the pilot said we couldn’t land for about 45 more minutes because of storms in Houston.
Ended up getting to their house in Huntsville, TX around 10pm after grabbing dinner on our way in Conroe.
Saturday
We got up and went over to the neighborhood clubhouse restaurant, where they live and had breakfast.
After that we decided to drive to College Station to go to the George H.W. Bush Library.
The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, located at Texas A&M, honors the 41st president’s legacy through exhibits, archives, and artifacts from his career in public service. Highlights include interactive displays, Marine One, and the final resting place of George and Barbara Bush.
Now through January 5, 2026, the Bush Library’s Music America exhibit showcases iconic artifacts from legends like Elvis, Ella Fitzgerald, Tupac, and Lady Gaga—celebrating the artists who shaped American music.
This statue of President George H.W. Bush anchors the United Nations exhibit, honoring his role as U.S. Ambassador to the UN in the early 1970s. Behind him, a mural of the General Assembly sets the stage for global dialogue. Visitors are invited to sit beside him, where history meets reflection.
Custom-painted to match Air Force One, this locomotive honored George H.W. Bush’s legacy and led his funeral train in 2018 from Spring to College Station, TX. Now housed in the Pavilion at the Bush Presidential Library, it stands as a powerful symbol of service, history, and a president’s lifelong love of railroads.
Lunch at C&J Barbeque serves up classic Texas BBQ with no frills—just smoky, tender meats and hearty sides. The menu features brisket, ribs, sausage, pulled pork, and stuffed baked potatoes, plus Southern staples like fried okra, ranch potatoes, and mac & cheese.
Any Texas trip in incomplete without some good ole brisket. I got collards and ranch potatoes.
When we got back to their house, we relaxed, watched TV, and chatted. I also enjoyed watching the deer in their backyard.
That evening we made a trip to HEB for some snacks. Only in Texas can a grocery store look like it’s posing for a postcard.
Sunday
Sunday was church and then we went to Pappasito’s to celebrate Pam’s birthday. Pappasito’s blends bold Tex-Mex flavors with a festive, high-energy vibe—think sizzling fajitas, fresh tortillas, and margaritas that kick. It’s Texas hospitality with a spicy twist.
Monday
Monday we had originally planned to go to Conroe for lunch at Torchy’s but we decided on the way there to get catfish instead. Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish in Conroe serves up crispy catfish, hush puppies, and Southern sides in a cozy, down-home setting. A local favorite since 1984.
We drove around Lake Conroe and then headed back to Huntsville to pack up our stuff and go to the airport.
From presidential exhibits to backyard deer and bold Tex-Mex birthday celebrations, our Texas weekend was full of connection and comfort. Even the last-minute catfish lunch and postcard-worthy grocery run added their own charm. It was a short trip, but the kind that leaves you feeling re-centered and grateful.
That sounds like a wonderful little weekend getaway to see family!