Five Years of Exploring Texas

Join me on my journey through the vastness of the Lone Star State, celebrating the five-year anniversary of my first trip on my quest to answer the question, How Big Is Texas. In this podcast episode, I share the story of a remarkable nine-day road trip where Debra, Morgan, and I drove around the state’s…

9 Weird & Unusual Texas Stops

When you think of things to see in the Lone Star State, many people think of those iconic places like The Alamo in San Antonio, the Texas Capitol in Austin, or Palo Duro Canyon in the Panhandle. As a Native Texan, I love all of those locations but there’s something about the quirky and eccentric…

Brewster County: The Hidden Gem of Texas

Join me, Diann Bayes, the founder of ‘How Big is Texas,’ as I take you on an exciting journey through Brewster County, the largest county in Texas. In this episode, I share my love for Texas and highlight my experiences exploring this spectacular region. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Big Bend National Park, the charming…

Who Really Invented the Hamburger? A Texas Tale

According to more sources than I can list, the hamburger was invented by Fletcher Davis from Athens, Texas, in the late 1880’s and introduced at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. “Uncle Fletch” is so beloved in Athens that they hold the Uncle Fletch Davis Hamburger Festival every September. In fact, the Uncle Fletch…

Willie’s Award at A Texas Walmart

Join me, Diann Bayes, founder of ‘How Big is Texas,’ as I take you on an enchanting journey through the beautiful landscapes and vibrant stories of Texas. In this episode, I share heartfelt anecdotes, including an unforgettable encounter with the legendary Willie Nelson. Delve into the story of honoring Willie Nelson in 2006 with the…

Farm to Table the Texas Way

Join me, Diann Bayes, founder and #1 Quester at How Big is Texas, as I take you on a journey through the vibrant landscapes and agricultural wonders of the Lone Star State. From the blossoming azaleas and wisteria in East Texas to the sprawling produce across various regions, discover the diversity and richness of Texas…

12 of My Favorite Texas Gardens

With Spring only five weeks away, gardens across the Lone Star State will come alive with color and activity. Interstates, highways, back roads, and fields reveal colors seen only in spring. The bluebonnets Texans know and love give a shout-out to Lady Bird Johnson, the former First Lady responsible for the Highway Beautification Act signed…

My How Big Is Texas 2025 Quests

I Do Not Resolve, I Quest!!! As resolutions go, I tend to fail dismally. You may be one of those amazing goal setters and not in the least bit familiar with making but, not keeping, New Year’s resolutions. Good for you. I’m this person, or at least I have been in the past. I purchase…

My Weight Loss Idea: Chips, Salsa, and Texas Inspiration

With the new year, comes resolutions for many. If I were brave enough, I would start a diet idea I’ve had for a while. I’m not confident enough that it would work for weight loss. A few years ago, I had the inspired, but brief, idea of eating variations of chips and salsa for a…

Stick with your Strengths on Holidays in Texas

Normally, this is a travel blog but since it’s the holiday season, I thought I’d offer some sage advice to you, whether you are traveling to see family and friends or they are traveling to see you. Consider it a little life lesson and my gift to you this year. My Holiday Story At the…