Memories of Galveston

Last night as I talked to my dad on the phone about Rita, I started to cry. The idea of Galveston being destroyed was too much for me. Galveston is the home of some of my best childhood memories.

First I think of the beach. I know that Galveston is not the best beach in the states, but it was the beach that we went to when I was young. It was where I played in the sand and bobbed in the water. It was were I fell in love with the vastness of the ocean (or gulf).

Next my mind goes to the Bishop's Palace. This is an old mansion in Galveston. I remember walking through it as a child and marveling at the beautiful architecture and the marble fireplaces. I did not understand why they needed a huge fireplace in each room, but could imagine myself living in such a place!

There was this other house that offered tours that we went to once. It was not as big or ornate at the Bishop's Palace, but it was my favorite. It was at this house that I learned of the hurricane that had devastated Galveston and led to the building of the sea-wall. I was fascinated with the history of the place I loved. I can remember sitting in the basement of that house and watching a film about the hurricane and the effort of the people after.

But my favorite memory of Galveston is Gaidos. Gaidos is the most amazing seafood restaurant in the world! I have such wonderful recollections of mom, dad, Mandy, and I going there for dinner. We would sit by the window and watch the waves break. One day we sat there and thought we saw a shark, but then realized it was a dolphin! To think back brings tears of joy.

I love Galveston and I am sad that I am just now realizing how much the town means to me. I pray for the days ahead and what will become of the place that holds such wonderful memories. I know I will always have these memories, but the place I love is home to so many.