Texas Bluebonnets

As the boys and I were driving down Woodlands Parkway today I started to notice that the bluebonnets were out. I guess you have to be from Texas to realize what a big deal that is. I got so excited and told Parker all about them. Robert was with us in the car a little later and Parker said, "Daddy. I spy something blue and white." So after Robert's numerous failed guesses Parker finally said, "No daddy! It's the Texas Blueberries!" It was so cute...

Anyway, while looking for a picture to post I came across so many sites it was cracking me up! Here are a few choice excerpts from some of them...

"The bluebonnet is one of the biggest springtime attractions in Central Texas. Our State Flower is as familiar a symbol of Texas as the Lone Star, Longhorn cattle, cowboy boots, or oil wells. As the oft-quoted historian Jack Maguire puts it - the bluebonnet is to Texas what the shamrock is to Ireland, the cherry blossom to Japan, the lily to France, the rose to England and the tulip to Holland."

"It is not uncommon to see motorists stopped along Texas highways to photograph bluebonnets, including sitting among the wildflowers."

"Protect our state flower. Admire them. Photograph them. But don't pick the bluebonnets."

It's true that everyone stops by the side of the road or takes trips to the 'Texas Hill Country' every year. Mostly to see who can get the cutest picture of their kids frolicking in the fields of flowers. And remember - it is most likely right on the side of the rode! And, if I had a nickel for every festival in Texas devoted to bluebonnets, I would be rich!

Here are a few little interesting facts I found out while looking around.

- the 2 main species of Texas bluebonnets are found growing naturally only in Texas and no where else in the world.
- in 1901 the Texas Legislature started a 70 year debate over which species of bluebonnet should be the state flower.
- in 1971 the Legislature pacified all sides by naming both species of bluebonnet and any other known or unknown at that time as the state flower.
- April 24 is Texas State Wildflower Day.

If you want some more info for your kiddies... Here is a link to a book that every elementary school teacher in the state of Texas has. Including me. Legend of the Bluebonnet: An Old Tale of Texas - By Tomie de Paola.

Yep. Texas has no pride at all.