Some dude we had met told us that driving the length of Texas would feel reallllly loooong.  I’m sure that’s true if you’re trying to drive it straight, or if you’re just trying to make it to the other side, but we’re all “Life’s About the Journey” over here, so it wasn’t bad!

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What is Thanksgiving without friends or family?  SADNESS.  Sorry to be so dramatic.  I knew that no matter WHAT we did for Thanksgiving- in the kids’ eyes, it would never, ever live up to our normal celebration (we usually host).  At least I planned ahead.  I figured that instead of trying to compete with their expectations, it would be better do something entirely different, something we wouldn’t normally do because we’re busy hosting.

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Aaron Franklin, of PBS fame, is THE bbq king, and his famous bbq joint is in Austin.  This was Billy’s #1 on places to visit for the entire trip.  Billy started smoking meat after watching his show and receiving Aaron’s book from yours truly last Christmas.  He may or may not keep it on his bedside table next to his bible.  We had been really bummed because their pit room suffered a fire in August, and was closed until further notice.  BUT… luck was on our side, and they reopened the Tuesday before Thanksgiving!!

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