Don't Mess With Texas

When Cris and I first came to Texas, we were spending time with his cousin Rey in Austin.  As we drove back to Houston, we saw so many flags! Cris said, "Isn't there a saying that you can hold your breath between flags in Texas because there are so many?"  Rey replied, "Actually, if you breathe every time you see a flag, you'll probably hyperventalate."  There are seriously that many flags here - American and Texan - that you really might hyperventalate.  Rey also said that you could ask anyone in Texas what the state icons (bird, tree, song, etc) are, and they would know.  We tested it on our waitor that night, and he proved a proud Texan.  Initially, I started rattling off facts about Washington.  But, as it turns out, I didn't get very far.  Cris and I both got stumped on the tree, and we had to use a lifeline and call someone.
People in Texas are very patriotic and proud.  At first, the "Don't mess with Texas," mantra and attitude took me by surprise. I'm used to coming from a state of subdued pride. But, I have to admit, the big-scale, loud proudness is a little contagious. When Cris was here by himself at the beginning, I remember Skyping him about a week after he'd been here.  He excitedly held up two flags he bought - one Mexico, one Texas.  He'd only been there a week, and already he was hooked!  "It's in my blood" he told me.  I haven't been as quick as him to fall in love, and I haven't signed over to all of the traditions, thoughts and fads here. But I do love a lot of things, and I find myself defending Texas when other people try to dog it.  The southern hospitality and respect here, the palpable culture and pride, the amazing food. . ..
When I was working in the schools one day, I was busy talking with a principal.  An announcement came through the intercom to "please stand for the flag pledges."  Pledges?  I was very surprised to discover that Texas has it's own flag pledge - and every day, all the school children of Texas say both. 
"Honor the Texas flag; I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible."
While I won't be standing up anytime soon to pledge, I'm enjoying Texas, and think YOU should come visit us. 
-Courtney