Corpus Christi, TX (USA)

Woke up this morning (0600) to the sound of a heavy breeze - which was odd, since all my windows and door were closed. It was only then that I realized the door to my room was OPEN!!! It had somehow blown ajar during the night - fortunately, I had the privacy lock engaged and it didn't swing all the way open. Still, the whole thing got me wide awake... Spent the next hour working on emails. Seminar began around 0800 and had a good break for lunch. I took the opportunity to enjoy a meal at Bustillo's BBQ restaurant. It was run by an older couple and they treated me very well. I had enchiladas (mmm...) and then headed back for several more hours of class. We actually didn't get to do everything that was planned because most of the folks disappeared after lunch (?). Ended up back in my room around 1600 and found the front door open - this time all the way! Obviously, there is something wrong with it... Changed and then drove over to Corpus Christi (using Ennis Joslin and Ocean Drive). There were a lot of one-way streets, so I was glad to have a map. Found several pretty parks and old churches. I saw signs about Selena (pop singer who was killed here a few years back). I drove all the way into the city but got hung up with a big traffic jam that was trying to cross Nueces Bay on US-181. So, I gave up and headed back South to have dinner. I had originally hoped to find the first Whataburger restaurant but it turns out it was demolished several years ago. Instead, I settled for a waterfront view at Restaurant #313 (two stories with a balcony - fancy!). I ate dinner while overlooking the harbor. It was VERY windy again, so I took advantage of the seating inside (big window views). Afterwards, I walked around the area and saw some monuments to the first Spanish settlers, a replica of a Spanish ship and a cool Joe's Crab Shack along the water. I walked back to my car and suddenly noticed a billboard with a unique but familiar surname on it - had to be one of my friend's relatives! I actually called Brett to ask and he said it was his uncle... Drove back to my hotel (NAS Corpus Christi Navy Gateway Inn) after 2000. Packed and watched a movie until around 2230L. Made sure door was closed TIGHTLY before turning out the lights...