In my last blog, the breathtaking Longwood Gardens was the center of attention. Now, it is time to go a little farther than seven miles from home.

My next adventure would lead to the largest state in the continental United States, Texas. Additionally, it was the first time that I had ever travelled without my parents, and the farthest I had ever travelled in the United States. To say the least, this new adventure would alter my life path yet again.

While visiting Houston, I had the amazing opportunity of visiting many important locations. I visited the NASA Space center, Schlitterbahn water park, Kemah Boardwalk, and many more.

At Space Center Houston, I was able to live out my dream of being an astronaut. I walked in the infamous Boeing 747 and Independence shuttle. This was extremely influential as a child that dreamed to sit in these seats. Furthermore, I witnessed the spaceship in detail from the bathrooms to the sleeping chambers; it was everything that I have ever dreamed.

In addition to experiencing my childhood dreams, I stepped out of my comfort zones in various ways. At Schlitterbahn water park, I went on numerous water coasters that challenged my fears. Now, I was never afraid of heights. However, standing on the edge of a 70-foot tall coaster, I was extremely out of my comfort zone…

This was a body slide, meaning your body is the vehicle to get to the bottom. You are free falling down a 70-foot tower in which your body reaches speeds of 35 mph down a 244-foot-long slide. Even as an adrenaline junkie, I hesitated. Nonetheless, with the encouragement and support of my family, we took the free fall, and this is a memory that I will never forget.

If your heart started to race on the last ride, prepare to sit down. My next coaster would be the world’s tallest water coaster, MASSIV. This is the same water coaster where a young boy was decapitated in the previous years. Walking up the 123 steps, I felt the wind become strong and my senses increased. The ride dropped, zipped, and turned numerous times. Again, with my family in the raft, we did it together.

Believe it or not, the trip was filled with much more fun. We toured the city of Houston on segways. Learning about the history of Houston and visiting the famous landmarks were breathtaking. The tour was filled with laughs, knowledge, and bruises. The most memorable moment is when I flew off the segway because I forgot to hit the brake which left a nasty purple and black bruise. Nonetheless, it was another great memory that was created with my family.

Along with the fun and games, the true purpose of my trip was to spend time with my extended family. I only see my family from Texas once a year since my grandmother’s passing.  Thus, it was welcoming to spend more time with them and gain an insight into their daily lives. At home, I am an only child that sees my parents and grandparents every day. I know every aspect of their life, and they know everything about my life. During the poolside talks and family time, I learned the importance of “catching up.” I gained greater insights into their daily lives, passions, and hopes. It was different, but something that I loved. We connected at a deeper level than ever before. I felt that I finally knew my family.

The trip was one of the best moments in my life. I had so much fun and created many memories that I would never forget. I learned the value of family. I, now, know that family is truly what is important. They will have your back, and they will always be there to support you. Later in life, I know true happiness results from family and support, and I will strive to create more of these blood bonds throughout life.

This is what Texas taught me; one of the most important aspects of life.