Here, There and Around

I feel like I've been asleep, Sleeping Beauty style as I have not posted much on my blog recently.  However, since I have been out seeing things close to home I will keep you posted as to what, where, how, and why you too should be out seeing things close to home.  
As much as we all want to be world travelers, some of us need to save up for trips.  I am currently in the planning stages of 2 trips that will take me outside the continental U.S.  In the meantime, I've been roaming the state of Texas.  Hope you get inspired to also get out and see things that are closer to home.  

Learn the legend of the
doors on the website.
Just click on the link.

My first place to visit was the Spanish Governor's Palace in San Antonio.  It is located at 105 Military Plaza in the downtown area, about half way between the Alamo and El Mercado.  It is quietly tucked away from most of the regular tourist destinations in the downtown area.  
This place despite its name, is far from a palace and has never been a governor's residence.  It is however filled with history, having been restored back in 1929-1930 including period style pieces inside.  The Governor's Palace also has a lovely garden with a fountain that helps mask the traffic noise of the surrounding streets.  

A little sneak peak at the garden.

It is easily accessible by either car or trolley.  There is street parking nearby with a two hour limit for free and some meter parking close by as well.  
A great way to spend a leisurely afternoon is the Spanish Governor's Palace and then lunch and shopping at El Mercado.  We went from the governor's palace to Mi Tierra Restaurant where the Margaritas are cold and delicious and the food is also.  After our lunch we headed out to the various shops and boutiques of El Mercado and finally ended our afternoon at the downtown Farmer's Market.  
If you're interested here is the website for the Spanish Governor's Palace.  
http://www.sanantonio.gov/dtops/parks_plazas/governorspalace.aspx 

The original keystone for the building.

Guarding the building, larger than life
size.  He stands.

The original gutter system for the building
which has a flat roof.

The flowers out front before you enter.  

In the garden, which was a courtyard when originally built.

Garden shots.

More of the garden.

A lovely cactus in bloom from the infrequent rains.

This was one of the trees in the garden.

Another of the garden's occupants.

This is one of the Santas from inside the
Palace.  You may photograph the inside
and its furnishings, just no flash photography.