Guenther House and Missions

Sunday morning the temperature dropped considerably. We went from short sleeves to jackets in a matter of hours. My friend, Whitney had recommended the Guenther House and it was perfect for breakfast/brunch.

The Guenther House is the home of Pioneer Flour Mills' founding family.

We sat inside the tented area. They had heaters on and blankets in the chairs, so we were not too cool.

David opted for the sweet cream waffle and biscuit and gravy, while I had eggs benedict...one of my favorites.

I love this picture of my boys. Owen demanded that we sit by the pumpkins for a picture and wanted his daddy to sit with him. I think he looks so old in his button down shirt like his daddy.

The Pioneer flour mill next door to the house.

original mill stone

By the time we finished breakfast, it was still early so we decided to ride by and visit of few of the missions.

Mission Concepcion stands as one of the country's oldest original stone churches being approximately 250 years old. Carrying on the traditions of Catholic Spain, missionaries taught the Coahuiltecans how to work the land and live in a settlement instead of solely relying on their hunter-gatherer lifestyle. By combining the two, they were able to provide a community with stable food supply. When they joined the mission, the Friar used the Catholic faith to teach them a new way of life.

A church service was actually being held while we were there and we were invited in. So we enjoyed the very end of the service. Owen liked the music and clapped when it was over.

Our next stop was the Mission of San Jose.

David was excited to see the walls surrounding this mission and Owen was excited to run!

These outside rooms around the perimeter of the mission were Indian quarters.

Owen had fun exploring.

Mision San Jose was founded in February of 1720.  

                   The building of the limestone church with baroque architecture began in 1768.

There were 350 Indians living in 84 two room apartments on the grounds.

The church of San Jose became known as the "Queen of Missions."

San Jose operated as a mission for over 104 years. Over 2,000 Indians were baptized.

Church services were also being held while we were there. There was even a blessing of the dogs.

We really had a fun day exploring and learning a little piece of Texas history.

It was a great escape from the everyday grind, but David and I both agreed it felt good to get back home too. What a blessing it is to feel this is "home."