AUSTIN, Texas — Memorial Day is a time to reflect and remember the servicemen and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice. It's also when many people are traveling to spend time with family.
Thousands of people hit the roadway Friday. Some traveled out of Central Texas, while others are coming home.
"I am coming to gorgeous Austin my hometown,” Rita Garza.
Garza called Austin home for 20 years before moving to Houston. She said she never forgets the true meaning of Memorial Day.
"Important to honor all the men and woman who served for us," Garza said. "It's a sacrifice many cannot even fathom, but I also feel it’s a time to be with family."
Garza said she could not be more thrilled to be in Austin following the storms that hit Houston. She decided to take a break from the tough times.
"Mother Nature stole a week out of my life ... Did without power for a week. I was in one of the neighborhoods really hard hit ... Lost a week of power and stayed with friends," Garza said. "My neighborhood had crushed trees on cars, trees on roofs. I lost 50% of my trees."
Now Garza said she looks forward to spending precious time with loved ones in Central Texas. While she spends time with her family, she will remember the lives lost in Houston and says she's forever grateful for all the first responders and everyone lending a helping hand.
“Incredible people doing things for all the neighbors. The emergency response seems to be nonstop in Houston. I am always grateful, grateful, for everything," Garza said.
For Garza, this weekend will be a time to reflect, spend time with loved ones, and never forget those who are no longer with us this Memorial Day.