Shooting the Breeze - Sept. 3

What's your favorite thing about the Lone Star State? What's the one thing that makes you want to be here instead of anywhere else in the world? Is it because you've always been here and just can't imagine pulling up stakes and moving?

Is it because there's too many memories? Or is it because of what there's not...ice and snow, rude folks and ahem...Yankees?

For me, it's a little bit of all of this and much more. I love that most everything you could want in a vacation or home base is here – somewhere. You want a beach? Done. Mountains? Done. Canyons? Done. Rivers, trees, fields, sand dunes? Done times four.

My friend and fellow co-worker Brittany is on her way to Austin as I type and I'm thinking of how much fun she's going to have this weekend.

The Austin area is one of my favorite places in the world. I love the eclectic little shops on South Congress, the Austin Motel (so close, yet so far out) and the State Capitol.

I don't care how many times I visit, it still gets me every time – the thought of all the decisions over the years that have affected millions – the thought of the legendary Texans who have walked those hallowed halls. It's a trip every Texan should make at least once in their lifetime. It's free and worth every penny and then some.

The Hill Country in general is a gorgeous drive and I highly recommend it, too, especially the Marble Falls and Burnet areas. Lot of rolling hills and watering holes and real-deal cowboys galore.

Here at home, I love the pine trees. I lived in Denton for a little while and I swore when I left that if I ever got back to the land o' pine trees I would never leave – and though I moved around a lot afterward, I always settled in among the pines.

I think my favorite thing about Texas – above and beyond the climate or the scenery is the people. We take our people for granted. We take our own behavior for granted. Travel north a few hours – east or west it doesn't matter – and try waving at folks, saying hey to a stranger or striking up a conversation with someone in a grocery store. Good luck, all's I'm saying.

On the flip side, I've tested this theory in every corner of Texas and without fail, it works like a charm. We are a people who like to talk, be friendly and pass on a few positive vibes to our fellow man. Sure, there are exceptions. Wouldn't be a rule if there weren't. But all in all, I can safely say that Texas is pretty much the best place to call home, even if I am a little biased.

If I haven't met you yet, howdy. If I have, how's the family? Come on over and chat sometime. Y'all know where I'll be.