Point #9 El Paso- Texas and Mexico Interwoven

To obtain this point: You must visit the Chamizal National Memorial in El Paso, which commemorates the peaceful border resolution between the United States and Mexico. Remember that the culture and history of Texas and Mexico are obviously interwoven.

While in El Paso (the 6th largest city in Texas), try to appreciate the mixture of cultures. There are Native American, Mexican/Spanish, and Western influences throughout the city. El Paso was also a major location during the Mexican Revolution and the time of Pancho Villa. If you have time, try to make it to the Mission Trail that is an 8 mile stretch with 3 historic Spanish Missions.

Enjoy Texas and did you know that El Paso is said to be the Boot Capital of the World.

Point #8- 10 Counties...10 Historical Markers

To get this point: You must visit 1 historical markers in 10 different counties.

Texas has an extensive system of historical markers brought to you by the Texas Historical Commission. The Texas Historical Commission has a goal of historic preservation throughout Texas. There are over 13,000 markers throughout Texas so asking you to visit 10 seems a little underwhelming. I know that a truly Texanacious person would get the urge to stop at every marker they encounter, but stopping at 10 will be enough to obtain this point.

Enjoy Texas and did you know that there are 46 locations in Texas that are classified as National Historic Landmarks. Can you name them?

Point #7- Nacogdoches- Oldest town in Texas

To get this point: You must visit downtown Nacogdoches, find a place to sit in downtown, and spell 'N-A-C-O-G-D-O-C-H-E-S' correctly without looking at a sign.
Caveat #1: I guess if you just visit Nacogdoches, that should count too.

Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas and named for the Caddo family of Indians who lived in the area. It is widely considered the oldest town in Texas and it's history goes something like this: the Spanish set up a mission there in Nacogdoches. A couple years later everyone was moved away to establish San Antonio. Some of the folks did not like the future locations of Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld so they followed a fellow named Y'Barbo back to Nacogdoches, where they could build the Old Stone Fort.

If you want to spend some time in downtown, there is supposedly a walking tour from the local visitors center. If you decide to explore the surrounding area, you can take in the unique qualities of East Texas.

Enjoy Texas and try to figure out why there have actually been 9 flags to fly over Nacogdoches instead of the usual 6 flags over Texas...

Point #6- Texas Clothing (part 1)- Cowboy Hat

To obtain this point: You must own a cowboy hat.
Caveat #1: More importantly, you must have the confidence in you Texas spirit to wear it out in public (recommended with Point #1- Rodeo).

This point is pretty obvious and does not need much explanation. It is amazing that a cowboy hat has been a piece of any wardrobe in Texas- working on the ranch, dancing, male/female, getting married, or doing a business deal. No matter what the occasion, a cowboy hat can be essential gear.

Stay tuned for another point about Texas clothing later...