Every day is special on the island, but Mother’s Day goes beyond extra special as husbands, sons, and fathers go outside their comfort zone to tour the historical homes of Galveston and make mom happy.  As the stories unfold about these century-old buildings, all are glad they took the time to learn of this beautiful island’s colorful history.  It began with the currently gutted City National Bank building, containing vaulted 3-story ceilings and leaded glass skylights to take your breath away.  To make the story more interesting, one of the Moody family members, who happens to be an eligible bachelor, has taken on the project of turning this awe-inspiring commercial building into his residence.  The building has a long way to go before bathrooms, bedrooms, sitting rooms and a kitchen will be created.  The fun is in imagining what each room will become.  We’ll have to wait till next year to find out!

The residences ranged from 484 square feet to over 6,000, and each held it’s own charm.  Wood floors over a century old have been preserved by painstakingly applying linseed oil over the years, while some have had the interiors completely gutted to add the modern conveniences.  There were quartz kitchens, granite and marble bathrooms, intricately inlaid parquet floors, and all were air conditioned.  The interior decor was impeccable in each and every one.  So many new ideas to ponder for my own little condo.  My hands-down favorite was the tiniest 484 square foot 2-room beach house with old wooden wine crates used as cabinet doors in the kitchen.  The entire space was paneled with reclaimed wood in a dark rustic walnut stain.  You just wanted to sit down on the couch, turn the tv on and kick off your shoes.  What amazingly creative islanders we are blessed with.  So proud to call Galveston home.