Mathis, Texas

This afternoon we find ourselves in the small town of Mathis, Texas, population about 5000.  It is located about 140 northwest of Harlingen and about 40 miles west of Corpus Christi.  Long gone is the resort campground were we spent the past three weeks.  Our campground for tonight is officially called “Adventure Texas RV Resort” and it is rated in RV Campground Reviews under that name, but if are searching for it on Mapquest, it is listed as Maximum RV.  That is because it is located and operated by Maximum RV Center, a very small dealership just off I-37 on the edge of town.  There are about 60 sites here, all pull-thrus with full hook-ups, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi.  It may become “resort” status when the rest of the campground is finished.  They are currently working on what looks to be another 60 sites and there is a brand new structure which appears to be a clubhouse (not open at this time).  There is a propane filling station—that’s convenient.  It seems to have everything you might want except drinking water.  The water is from a well which hasn’t yet had the blessings of the Texas Health Department.  However, for $18 per night, it is great for a one-night stand on our way to Hondo.  We picked up a couple gallons of drinking water in the RV store.

Shopping opportunity in downtown Mathis

Our run from Harlingen was uneventful.  We got away about 8:30, traffic was very light all along US 77 to its intersection with I-37, and surprisingly, the road surface was in very good condition.  The only stop we made was about 60 north of Harlingen at a Border Patrol Check Point.  The guard asked a few questions and we were on our way.

Gene's favorite store--Dollar General

After we unhitched, set up for the night, and downed a quick ham sandwich, we set out in search for diesel fuel and ice cream.  We found the fuel for $1.99/gal which we think is still a very good price.  However, we had seen it at several stations along Rt. 77 for 1.96.  A couple turns later we spotted the Dairy Queen.  Gene has been craving a blizzard for several days now.  It was only a matter of time until the cravings got the better of him.  Since we were already there, I decided I might as well have my favorite—chocolate shake.  We picked up a loaf of bread at the Dollar General next door to Dairy Queen then went looking for downtown Mathis.  I guess we found it.  At least we found a street with a school, a city hall, a grocery, and a Chevy dealer.  If that wasn’t it, then there is no downtown Mathis.

There is still wind here.  We were lucky this morning not to have any significant wind for our drive.  This afternoon it has picked up some.  We are parked perpendicular to the wind and I had some difficulty getting the Montana door open.  Birding opportunities still abound.  We spotted this Eastern Meadowlark, along with 4 or 5 of his buddies, out in our front yard.

Thank you, Lord, for another glorious, safe, and fun-filled day.