The most famous touristic attraction in San Antonios is the Alamo, an 18th century fort that played an important role in the history of Texas.

In a battle in 1836 all Texan defenders, who were in a revolution against their Mexican ruler, were are killed after a 13 days siege. This battle not only delayed and damaged the Mexican army severely, but it also made many more Texans join the Texan army and inspired Texan patriotism. A few months later Santa Anna was defeated. A famous speech by the Texan commander before that final battle was then ended with the words: "Remember the Alamo!".

Today the Alamo is still a symbol for the independence and resilient spirit of Texas.

We visited the Alamo on Saturday, the first day in the new year. The weather was beautiful. On the picture above you'll see the Alamo on the right; the building in the back with the flag on the tower was our hotel, Emily Morgan.

When we visited the fort there was a guide giving a lecture on the history of the Alamo, specifically on the battle. We knew the story already, as we had seen a movie about it a few days before. However the gentleman who gave the lecture was very good, and it was interesting that he could point and say "...and then they came over that wall, right there...".

You can see the Texan flag on many buildings, here next to the flag of the United States. Texan is also called the Lone-Star State.

We also visited the cathedral of San Antonios, about 15 minutes walking from the Alamo. On this building Santa Anna had a red flag banner put. This banner was visible in the besieged Alamo, and it was a message saying that there would be no mercy given in this battle -- surrender or die.

The Alamo at night, the evening before we left.

Yesterday was my first day after our short vacation. Our project is quite busy, and as I had a lot to arrange I stayed till 20:00 o'clock.

I walked home, where Sasha had also just arrived, and we went shopping together. We had a very late dinner at 22:00 o'clock. It was though to wake up in the morning, but a nice breakfast -- fresh Italian bread with cheese -- and coffee at home made for a nice start of the day. I walked to work through the Washington drizzle (motregen); very refreshing.

We're back! We just came home from a wonderful vacation in San Antonios, Texas.

It's a very nice place to spend a long weekend like this, and we had Tex-Mex food, tequilas, very warm weather and a beautiful river side.

Now quickly to bed, as normal life will continue tomorrow. We're greatly refreshed and ready for work again! Of course, later this week more, with stories and pictures.

Let me take the opportunity now -- I haven't been online in days, which hasn't happened in the last year -- to wish you all a very good 2005 from Sasha and me. Best wishes, good health, and, perhaps for some of you a visit to the States this year?