Texas Coast Visit (Part II)

As we headed out on our second day of beachy small town shopping we ran across some really cool houses. Shopping is important but we like to take the road less traveled and discover interesting detours. Some were in need of some TLC and others were just perfect and "move-in" ready. I could envision the one below in all it's former glory. It sure would be fun to fix up...but first, I'd have to rob a bank or win the lotto. This one was right on the bay and had inhabitants that clearly love the place and take really good care of it.

This was another grand historical home in Rockport and clearly has been well taken care of. When we return I want to see if we can take a tour.

Below is the view that this historic homes looks out on. The Gulf of Mexico, palm trees and shrimp boats. What a view!

As we drive on the main road to Rockport we can practically sniff out the fun beach shops, this is our roadside view.

At the recommendation of a local, we ended up going to a new Cafe and Art Gallery. We were told they have some of the best Chicken Salad and we weren't steered wrong. This was a mural that was on one wall of the gallery. We asked about the painting and the owner laughed and said..."Everyone thinks it's a drawing of the shops just down the block....but it's wallpaper". We had to get up VERY close to confirm that. However, it looks VERY similar to the surrounding stores.

Our first stop was a cute little shop that had old and new items. And of course, most of it was ocean themed.

The next stop was a fun and funky place that we were quickly drawn too. It reminded us of a lot of the cool vendors at Warrenton. We asked them if they had ever been to Warrenton and they said of course....and they were pleased to report that they will be having a booth in the fall! Ya'll go seek them out....they are called the Rowdy Maui and do the coolest painted cowboy boots.

We loved all their colorful signs. This is my friend, Tyra, holding up one of our favorites. ;)

You can see they have an eclectic fashion sense and it's a hoot. They will paint cowboy boots that you bring in the store OR you can buy the already painted boots they have in stock.

The whole store was a feast for the eyes with their bright colors, clever signs and funky clothes, jewelry and artwork.

Now, jump back into the air conditioned car with us to head up the road...because remember, the temps over the weekend were hovering at 102 and we were hot and in search of a SNOW CONE! Those things are so refreshing and can cool you down immediately. Wouldn't this hammock be the perfect place to have enjoyed that icy treat?

Inside THIS store we found lots of Shabby Chic items. I've always loved turquoise and I love the way they are combining shades of turquoise with a pop of red. Hmmmm....do I smell PAINT in my future? Well, I believe I do!!

I have almost that exact dressing table (below). They painted theirs white but mine (I inherited from my Grandmother) is in very good shape in a mahogany finish so for once in my life, I believe I'll leave it unpainted.....but I do LIKE the look of the white dresser, don't you?

So thanks for coming along with us on our beachy, shopping adventure. There are SO many places to discover in that part of South Texas, I just know we'll be back to visit soon. Perhaps in the late fall when the temperature finally starts getting a bit more bearable.