I spent an exhausting two years performing an exhaustive search of the United States looking for a place my family could put down roots and grow. In August 2005, my husband and I uprooted our 9-year-old daughter and our 11-year-old son and trekked cross-country to embrace a completely different culture, climate and lifestyle.

We have never looked back. The Texas Hill Country supplies an abundance of clear skies, cool rivers and large swatches of live oak trees. Their canopy creates vast amounts of shade, perfect for cooling off and sipping your favorite libation during the dog days of summer.

When we first arrived, I vowed to see this region and capture my experiences. I have seen and done more in this past year than most of my neighbors, natives in this region. I have traveled the meandering two lane highways all over the rolling hills.

Quaint towns dot the landscape, some you can roll right on through without guilt, but others you must experience. Like the smallest town I have ever seen, Luckenbach. This town offers a post office, general store, dance hall and bar. When we pulled into the dirt lot and parked, we were hesitant even to get out of the car. But what awaited hearkened back to a simpler era. Out back of the general store spread a wood-plank patio where no less than six cowboys were plucking and jamming on their guitars. Original song lyrics lilted over the crowd. Yes, crowd. This place was jumping. Beer was flowing and a band was warming up in the Dance Hall. Just a few miles away from bustling Fredericksburg, this small town demands attention.

Fredericksburg is the epitome of hill country charm. Less than two hours west of Austin, Fredericksburg beckons the locals and the tourists. There is ample shopping, a pioneer museum and lively biergartens. On the scenic Hwy 290 into town, you will also pass several Texas wineries offering up free samples. This area is the up and coming Napa Valley of Central Texas.

While you are out this way, point your car south and drive one hour to the town of Boerne (pronounced like your favorite Uncle "Bernie") where you will enjoy more historic buildings, more shopping and pristine riverside parks. All of these towns have strong hints of their German heritage -- the beautiful and rustic architecture, the nomenclature of their towns and their exuberant Oktoberfest celebrations.

Finally, experiencing the Texas hill country would not be complete without dipping your feet into the Comal, the Guadalupe or the Blanco River. The hill country is criss-crossed with refreshing, spring fed rivers and lakes. Visit the town of New Braunfels, established by the German Prince Carl in the mid 1800’s. This is home to the world-famous water park, Schlitterbahn. This is a family-friendly water park that is as much fun for mom and dad as it is for the kids. My kids had to drag me away at the end of the day. They were hungry and ready to leave when the sun set. It is a great way to beat the heat and the humidity of a hill country summer.

The historic village of Gruene (pronounced like the color "green") is located within New Braunfels and offers up riverside dining on the Guadalupe. Tube on the river by day and dine on Tex-Mex cuisine in the evening. It is a perfect end to a perfect day.