West Texas

Big Bend Country. You’ve been putting it up your whole life 2023

As a Houstonian, I often forget that the city does not represent the whole of the state of Texas. Despite being the most populous city in Texas, Houston is a modest piece compared to the acreage of this enormous state. While Texans will utilize the same phrases (“Everything is bigger in Texas”) and unify when abhorring the heat during the summer, there are a few differences in culture when you compare the different regions.

West Texas is the essence of quiet and mystery. The desert landscape allows you to feel nature on a secluded level. The visitors are a mix of hipsters looking to draw their inspiration by getting away from large cities like Austin and retirees looking for their next adventure while touring Great America. The locals seem to strike the perfect balance between “minding their business” and Southern Hospitality. I imagine though there is some resentment for obnoxious, well-off tourists invading the small town of Marfa.

Terlingua, Texas, despite being a ghost town, seemed revived by visitors and appreciated by the locals. It feels like a whole world, all in one spot. The restaurant, the general store, and the church. All within the same square. They make their own fun.

Road to Prada. I’ve got the bullets. 2023

Marfa, Texas. Window. 2023

It’s easy to generalize people that you don’t see everyday. It’s also easy to get lost in your own little world and not realize how much is out there. How many people there are to meet. How many plants and mountains that haven’t been seen. It’s all there. You want more from life, but you don’t want to move to get it. It’s all there. Just call it.

One thing is certain though amongst all of Texas — We all adore Willie Nelson.