
The town is small and the streets are narrow, but we soon arrive at the main attraction, and it makes the stop worth it.
With only 470 inhabitants, Marathon, Texas may not be on every Texas traveller’s list. But if you’re travelling to the McDonald Observatory, Marathon is on the way, and it’s well worth a stop for Gage Gardens alone.
The pebbles around the fountain look like a miniature sea, and the tall, narrow pine trees that encircle the display perfectly frame the entrance gates. K-girl immediately runs to the fountain, sits down, and looks at me expectantly. She doesn’t say a word, but I know she wants me to take a photo. And so I do.
The sky is nearly cloudless, and the sun shines brightly. But the wind is strong, and it ruffles her hair as she laughs, filling my ears with the sound of a childhood I will forever treasure watching unfold before my eyes. M-girl is enjoying every minute of running in this open space, and I’m enjoying watching her.
He runs back and forth and in and out of garden spaces, not taking much time to really observe the plants. But he’s obviously happy here, and that’s all that matters.
After walking through the whole garden and around the pathway, we get in some play and exercise.
We end our visit with a break at the picnic area.
We enjoyed our visit to Marathon, and I think one day, when the kids are older, I may return here to spend a few days (or maybe a few weeks) and write. It’s an inspiring place. I might even stay at Gage Hotel the next time I come.