As the #1 Quester at How Big Is Texas, I love sharing my memories of growing up across East Texas and the Panhandle. I also love to share family holiday traditions and the flavors of small-town life. I recount my 3,300-mile perimeter road trip and the Texas mountains I discovered. I discuss winter birding in…
Texas Sunrises & Sunsets: Stunning Photos & Views
As an amateur photographer, I understand the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words,” especially when it comes to sunrises and sunsets. I’m blessed to have experienced many over my years in the Texas. While lots of folks I know like to sleep in, many of my photos show reasons why I choose to…
The Texas Panhandle’s Unique Charm
Join me as I take you on a captivating journey through the Texas Panhandle, unraveling the untold stories and hidden gems of this often-overlooked region. From the awe-inspiring Palo Duro Canyon to the charm of Route 66, discover the rich history and unique attractions that make the Panhandle a must-visit destination. Delight in detailed anecdotes,…
Buc-ee’s: A Texas Wonder of the World
A few years ago, I came up with the idea of traveling around Texas and visiting all 34 of the Buc-ee’s stores in the Lone Star State. For those of you not familiar with Buc-ee’s, they are far more than a convenience store with fuel and snacks. Most are massive with at least 50 fuel…
Finding Hope after the Texas Floods
In this special podcast episode of “How Big Is Texas,” I focus on the aftermath of the devastating floods that swept through Texas over the July 4th weekend. As homes and communities were ravaged by rising waters, Texans banded together in a spirit of resilience and support for those affected. I share my personal accounts…
Anniversary Celebration on the Gulf Coast of Texas
Join me as I take you on a journey through the captivating Gulf Coast of Texas. In this episode, explore the scenic beauty of the coastline, from the sandy beaches of Rockport and Port Aransas to the historical charm of Galveston Island. Discover the unique wildlife, including birdwatching opportunities and sea turtle hatchling releases. I…
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…
Texas Memories: A Tribute to Grandma Barney
In this special Mother’s Day Weekend podcast, Diann Bayes, founder of How Big is Texas, takes us on a heartfelt journey through the cherished memories of her Grandma Barney Althea Thompson Stone. Through tales of family recipes, homemade quilts, and timeless wisdom, Diann honors the legacy and warmth of her grandma, a Texas native, whose…
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…