Fall outings

I found this old draft of a post that, embarrassingly, never made it onto the blog. I’m adding a year to the first two outings and a whole third outing I just did, and maybe just look at this as a “what to do in the area” kind of post?

In September 2025, I took a leisurely drive on Hill Country roads to Boerne, to see the Low German Bible from 1614. It is one of only a few known to exist, and it is available to the public for free at the reference desk. Most remarkable to me was that I was allowed to touch it and turn the pages at will, without gloves! (Though they do ask you to wash your hands before, and I certainly recommend doing it after as well.) This was totally up my alley because I like books, museums, and old things, and my family members don’t share that enthusiasm. If you want to see it, it’s at the Patrick Heath Public Library in Boerne, though the hours when it is available are restricted (in other words, call ahead, as just because the library is open doesn’t mean you can see the Bible).

 
In October 2025, I finally (finally!) went swimming in Barton Springs. The water there is so clear, and I was in the mood for a cold plunge, so this felt great. Once the changing rooms and restrooms are renovated, I might go back.

 
In October 2026, I made a quick pilgrimage to Lourdes Grotto and Tepeyac de San Antonio. The grotto is a replica of the grotto in which the Virgin Mary appeared in Lourdes to Saint Bernadette, while the Tepeyac hill is built directly on the other side of it and represents the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe to San Juan Diego. I also took a moment to collect my thoughts in the chapel. There’s no need to be religious to enjoy the grounds, which sit on five acres and have a beautiful garden. This was a nice visit, and I’m glad I didn’t drag my family with me.