FL 3-7-15

First I need to give a thumbs up to Travelers RV park here in San Antonio. It's easy to find, staffed with friendly and knowledgeable people, and has spacious lots that are clean as a whistle.

Today was mission tour day. We began at San Jose's. It was like a step back in time to the 1750's! Much of it is as it was then. Some restoration has taken place over the years, but one is hard pressed to find where.

As we entered through one of several gates in the wall that surrounds the mission we were on the edge of a large courtyard. I did not find a measurement but I would estimate it's several acres. Lining the inside of the mission wall were many small rooms. These were used to house the natives as well as the missionaries.

Across the way we could see the still active parish house and church. After a pleasant walk over the grassy courtyard, we began to hear a choir singing. Thinking it was recorded music we did not give it our full attention. When Ruth opened the door to the church we realized it was a live choir. A guide informed us the choir was one of many high school groups that came to San Antonio for Competition.

As the students filed out we sat and enjoyed the beauty of this 300 year old structure. We were about to leave when another student choir entered, took their place near the alter, and began to sing. Quite moving to say the least. What luck for us to show up on this day. Eventually, we left the church and completed our self guided tour.

Next we were off in search of the Alamo. Having visiting it in the 70's I knew it was downtown. However, I didn't expect so much construction, detours all over the place, and massive traffic. After nearly an hour in choking traffic we found a parking garage. Two blocks later we were standing in the small park in front of it.

Compared to San Jose, it was small and it has been really crowded out buy hotels and office buildings. Once we discovered it was a 90 minute wait at the ticket booth, we took a few photos and moved on. By this time it was late afternoon and traffic was still a nightmare.

We hope to attend Mass at San Jose' Mission tomorrow. That should be interesting, looking forward to it.