Saturday, May 25, 2013

Ranging down the Hondondo

On Monday, the Brackenridge Belles (and Bitches) walked the Judson Nature Trails in Alamo Heights with Sally Ann Smith, founder of Friends of Hondondo Creek. For those not in the know, Hondondo Creek is a semi-natural creekbed that wends its way, starting near Cambridge Elementary School, southwest through the Jack Judson Trails and joins Olmos Creek within the eastern edge of the Olmos Park Floodplain.

Smith and others have formed a 503(c)(3) organization that is soliciting funds to restore the network of forested trails-- home to an abundance of wildlife and more than 100 species of birds—into “a healthier, more natural condition as a means of enhancing the quality of life for citizens of all ages.” They also hope to develop educational programs for all ages and to create an outdoor nature learning center near the main entrance to the trails, by the Alamo Heights Pool.

Chica and I loved the sights and smells as we wandered through, stopping from time to time as Smith indicated points of interest. Her group plans to clear out invasive non-native plants, clear trash, and improve walking trails. Happily, leashed dogs are welcome and we dogs just can’t wait to come back. Those wanting more information can email hondeodondocreektrails.org or call (210) 602-7227.

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Strolling down Salado--bit by bit

For the past two weeks, the Brackenridge Belles have explored segments of the Salado Creek linear park. Thanks to Mary’s son Maverick and his adventurous dogs, Chigurh and Sir Walter, Chica and I have already been on those trails. But it was in the heat of summer and we were plagued by mosquitos.

This was different. Thanks to a unseasonably cool spring, we have had two glorious walks, one north of Loop 410 past Los Patios and, this past Monday, one south of Loop 410 leading to the Austin Highway.

Talk on the second walk was all about Belle Martha’s attendance at the dedication of the George Bush Library at SMU. Martha’s husband, Sichan Siv, was a U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations under the younger Bush.

This Monday, we plan to walk south to the trailhead near Fort Sam Houston. And, given that there are more Salado segments farther north, we may not be back to Brackenridge for awhile. At least not until the mosquitoes arrive.