"Still Standing"

Don't be mislead by the colorful red paint. With slats sagging and corrugated tin roof rusting, this dilapidated barn is a candid look at the past. One would think this relic would be found on a winding country road, but this barn survives on an overgrown lot, only two blocks from the much- traveled main drag of downtown Fredricksburg TX.

"Approach at Your Own Risk"

After all, this tree is already well on its way to devouring two metal signs. And who knows what (or who) could be next? It was just another sinister phenomenon discovered on a remote trail in the woods of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

"Mardi Gras Make-Believe"

If you can't make it to The Crescent City, you just gotta take your beads, your beer and your enthusiasm to the nearest park and celebrate in your own way, on your own turf. In this case, the Piney Woods of Texas became "party central" for a pre-Lenten blowout. Let's hear it for old-fashioned, down-home creativity.

"Almost Done"

Those Turkey Legs look huge when you pay the vendor, but two hungry adults can take it to the bare bone in record time. At Ft. Worth's annual ArtFest, you can hardly make up your mind whether to shop the art or check the food tents. With a minimum of "advanced planning", you can do both!

"Tranquil Creek"

If you're wanting to really discover America, there's no better way than a week-end getaway on a farm-to-market road. No maps needed. In fact, the farther from the interstate, the better. An unhurried pace down rural roads to nowhere will lead you to discoveries you can't imagine.

"Mail Call"

One thing assured as one travels the backroads, regardless of location: you never know what you'll find. It might be wildlife, waterfalls. statuesque oaks or something as unspectacular as six mailboxes lined up in a row. An interesting photo study, but more importantly, a real convenience to one particular mail carrier in rural Southeast Texas.