Thursday we drove to Florida and back. I did tell you we are only about 7 miles from the Florida line, right.
We had a nice day of it. Fort Clinch State Park is beautiful. You drive thru a canopy of trees with Spanish moss hanging. The trees are so knarled (?) that you can imagine all sorts of things depending on how your mind bends. I thought of an enchanted forest while Traveling Man thought of scary movies. I could see the whole scary movie thing, but I'm not sure he could see enchanted forest.
We drove through the campgrounds and they are great. The one at the beach has no shade of course, but the other one is super shady. Super shady is my pick and I can walk to the beach since it isn't far.
Fort Clinch is a masonry fort built around 1862. The location is great for defense, yet there was never a battle fought there. The confederates abandoned the fort before the union got there. I personally thought that was a smart move. The fort was manned during the Spanish-American War (Remember the Maine!) and WWI. It was abandoned in 1926, but brought back into service during WWII when it was used as a Coast Guard observation post.
This fort has not been ADA adapted, so the stairs can be steep and narrow. We did climb up to one of the observation posts - very carefully. Also the brick work is amazing, so beautifully and carefully done.
Later we walked out on to the fishing pier, which is about a mile long. You could see a long way. In fact, you could see Cumberland Island to the North. Poor Nick wasn't allowed on the pier, so he rested in the truck. When I got him out for a walk, he prefered the asphalt. I guess that dune grass hurt his feet because he treaded very carefully.
Returning thru Fernandina Beach, we passed the sign to the historic downtown, and TM said we'll just have to come back another time. I don't think so! He was informed he could make the next turn and still get to the historic area. Being a nice guy, he did just that. The first thing we see is this historic house with carosel horses on the porch posts! We made the block and came by it again so we could get a good look. It was so neat.
We drove on down to the waterfront and parked. As always, we were hungry and stopped at the Marine Restaurant. They had the history of the building on the placemats. Seems this building was the first Customs House. After our lovely lunch, TM went and got Nick out of truck prison and we walked all thru downtown. One of the historic houses, the Lesesne House was built by a man named Lesesne, of course. It was sold in 1868 to a family named Friend and the descendents still live there. I thought that was pretty amazing. And the house is still in very good shape, looking lovely in its Christmas dress-up.
We are really enjoying this area of GA.
God Bless
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Dancing
Wednesday morning I awoke to something nudging my foot. I opened my eye and noticed a dog looking at me. So I punched Don and told him he had a dancing dog on my side of the bed. He, sweetheart that he is, dressed and took Nick for a walk. So now we have Nick, the dancing dog. Anytime Nick thinks he is going out, he dances and/or paces until the leash is actually on him; then you better have the door open Now. Nick is very patient, but once the leash is touched you better just get a move on.
Once that was taken care of, plus breakfast, we set out for Historic St. Marys, GA. Have you noticed since 2000 there are more "historic" towns? Wonder if it was that way after 1900?
Anyway, St. Marys actually has a claim to historic since the first home, which is still in use, was built in 1807 and the Presbyterian church, also still in use, in 1808. The church was built as non-demoninational, but the first preacher was Presbyterian so they got it by default. The ceiling is actually a boat hull. When built the easiest thing to do was turn a boat upside down and make the ceiling/roof.
Everything is St Marys is decorated for Christmas (duh) and it makes it so beautiful. We went by the welcome center (and felt very welcome) and got a walking tour map and recommendations on where to eat lunch. We went to the Submarine museum. It is very interesting, but they are about to outgrow their space and things are a little cluttered. Saw the model of the USS Tennessee. Sorry folks, but no model of the USS Greeneville - somebody needs to get busy on that.
After lunch at Lang's Seafood, we went and made reservations to take the ferry on Thursday to Cumberland Island National Seashore.
Then there was a tour thru the Orange House. So named because of the Sour Orange Trees that were planted around it in 1826 - none of them are there now, but there are 2 trees that were planted in the 1940's. The house is typical Greek architecture with each side balanced. Our guide, Irene, grew up in St. Marys, about 2 blocks from this house. She had lots of memories of the house even though it was not lived in during the time she grew up.
The house was built for the Presbyterian minister and his wife by her father. Unfortunately, she died young and did not even live in the house. He lived there for some years, remarried and moved to AL where he taught at the U of AL. It has quite a history of owners. In the 1940's it was made into apts. When the foundation took the house over in the 1970's there was a lot of restoration to be done. None of the walls that had been taken out were replaced, otherwise the house is basically true to the original design. Naturally, it has been decorated for Christmas and theme is "Teddy Bear Reunion". Absolutely precious. I would love to have photos, but none are allowed in the house. All the furnishings have been either donated or on loan and are from different periods from the 1820's to the 1940's. Quite eclectic, but it works well. It was quite a long tour, mainly because we were the only ones there so Irene was taking her time and we were loving it. Oh yes, the house was occupied by Union forces during the War Between the States.
Being old, we were tired by then and headed home. We are looking forward to going back (anytime) on Dec. 8 for the candlelight house tour.
God Bless
Once that was taken care of, plus breakfast, we set out for Historic St. Marys, GA. Have you noticed since 2000 there are more "historic" towns? Wonder if it was that way after 1900?
Anyway, St. Marys actually has a claim to historic since the first home, which is still in use, was built in 1807 and the Presbyterian church, also still in use, in 1808. The church was built as non-demoninational, but the first preacher was Presbyterian so they got it by default. The ceiling is actually a boat hull. When built the easiest thing to do was turn a boat upside down and make the ceiling/roof.
Everything is St Marys is decorated for Christmas (duh) and it makes it so beautiful. We went by the welcome center (and felt very welcome) and got a walking tour map and recommendations on where to eat lunch. We went to the Submarine museum. It is very interesting, but they are about to outgrow their space and things are a little cluttered. Saw the model of the USS Tennessee. Sorry folks, but no model of the USS Greeneville - somebody needs to get busy on that.
After lunch at Lang's Seafood, we went and made reservations to take the ferry on Thursday to Cumberland Island National Seashore.
Then there was a tour thru the Orange House. So named because of the Sour Orange Trees that were planted around it in 1826 - none of them are there now, but there are 2 trees that were planted in the 1940's. The house is typical Greek architecture with each side balanced. Our guide, Irene, grew up in St. Marys, about 2 blocks from this house. She had lots of memories of the house even though it was not lived in during the time she grew up.
The house was built for the Presbyterian minister and his wife by her father. Unfortunately, she died young and did not even live in the house. He lived there for some years, remarried and moved to AL where he taught at the U of AL. It has quite a history of owners. In the 1940's it was made into apts. When the foundation took the house over in the 1970's there was a lot of restoration to be done. None of the walls that had been taken out were replaced, otherwise the house is basically true to the original design. Naturally, it has been decorated for Christmas and theme is "Teddy Bear Reunion". Absolutely precious. I would love to have photos, but none are allowed in the house. All the furnishings have been either donated or on loan and are from different periods from the 1820's to the 1940's. Quite eclectic, but it works well. It was quite a long tour, mainly because we were the only ones there so Irene was taking her time and we were loving it. Oh yes, the house was occupied by Union forces during the War Between the States.
Being old, we were tired by then and headed home. We are looking forward to going back (anytime) on Dec. 8 for the candlelight house tour.
God Bless
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Monday, November 26, 2007
On to Georgia
Well, here we are in Woodbine, GA, just minutes from FL. This is actually our 2nd night in GA since we spent Sunday night at Magnolia Springs State Park.
Our original plan was to leave Twin Lakes around 1:30 pm; but, with forecasts of rain we decided to get on the road. We got out about 10:30am. The sky was overcast, but we never got but a mist of rain. That was ok with us, but I know that everyone in this area really needs the rain.
On the way to Magnolia Springs, we passed thru Waynesboro, GA. It is really a quaint town with a lovely courthouse. Unfortunately there was no way for us to stop and get pictures. We definitely want to go back there sometime.
Magnolia Springs is a lovely park with nice campsites and facilities. Since we were only staying the one night, we really didn't get to see any of the sights around. There is a fresh water aquarium that sounds good.
As were were parking the trailer, a friendly couple, the Copelands, came over and introduced themselves. They said coffee was ready at their campsite whenever we got over there. Setting up went quickly as the campsite was very level. We wandered over with our chairs and my iced tea (I am not a real coffee drinker in the evenings). We managed to spend about 2-1/2 hours shooting the breeze around their fire. By then it was dark, plus Nick decided he had been alone in the trailer long enough. He let out a couple of barks and we, as obedient to his command, went and released him. Well, being on a leash is not really releasing, but it is getting outside and walking around.
The Copelands actually own an RV park in Tifton, GA. We really hope to get there sometime to meet up with them again and spend time at their park.
This morning as were were hooking up the trailer, TM asked me to get Nick out of the truck, because he was in TM's way when he was trying to see out the back. Such a downcast dog you have never seen! First he didn't want to get out of the truck and then he did it s-l-o-w-l-y. His tail was tucked, his ears flat, and his head down. Really pitiful. I think he must have thought he wasn't going to get to go after all. When we let him back in, he was in a big hurry and was very happy.
We drove the backroads to Woodbine. Our new friends had given us a route to take. It was so pleasant - very little traffic and nice scenery. This campground and our site are fine. It is a grassy area and there is a pool and hot tub. Tonight they had kareoke in the clubhouse, but we didn't go. My lovely, dulcet tones were not feeling so dulcet tonight. (for those who don't know, the last thing you ever want to do is hear me try and sing!)
So now for a night's sleep. There is shopping to do tomorrow and we need to find out about the sights to see around here. Already found a brochure for dolphin watching and just need to check out the prices.
God Bless
Our original plan was to leave Twin Lakes around 1:30 pm; but, with forecasts of rain we decided to get on the road. We got out about 10:30am. The sky was overcast, but we never got but a mist of rain. That was ok with us, but I know that everyone in this area really needs the rain.
On the way to Magnolia Springs, we passed thru Waynesboro, GA. It is really a quaint town with a lovely courthouse. Unfortunately there was no way for us to stop and get pictures. We definitely want to go back there sometime.
Magnolia Springs is a lovely park with nice campsites and facilities. Since we were only staying the one night, we really didn't get to see any of the sights around. There is a fresh water aquarium that sounds good.
As were were parking the trailer, a friendly couple, the Copelands, came over and introduced themselves. They said coffee was ready at their campsite whenever we got over there. Setting up went quickly as the campsite was very level. We wandered over with our chairs and my iced tea (I am not a real coffee drinker in the evenings). We managed to spend about 2-1/2 hours shooting the breeze around their fire. By then it was dark, plus Nick decided he had been alone in the trailer long enough. He let out a couple of barks and we, as obedient to his command, went and released him. Well, being on a leash is not really releasing, but it is getting outside and walking around.
The Copelands actually own an RV park in Tifton, GA. We really hope to get there sometime to meet up with them again and spend time at their park.
This morning as were were hooking up the trailer, TM asked me to get Nick out of the truck, because he was in TM's way when he was trying to see out the back. Such a downcast dog you have never seen! First he didn't want to get out of the truck and then he did it s-l-o-w-l-y. His tail was tucked, his ears flat, and his head down. Really pitiful. I think he must have thought he wasn't going to get to go after all. When we let him back in, he was in a big hurry and was very happy.
We drove the backroads to Woodbine. Our new friends had given us a route to take. It was so pleasant - very little traffic and nice scenery. This campground and our site are fine. It is a grassy area and there is a pool and hot tub. Tonight they had kareoke in the clubhouse, but we didn't go. My lovely, dulcet tones were not feeling so dulcet tonight. (for those who don't know, the last thing you ever want to do is hear me try and sing!)
So now for a night's sleep. There is shopping to do tomorrow and we need to find out about the sights to see around here. Already found a brochure for dolphin watching and just need to check out the prices.
God Bless
Saturday, November 24, 2007
What a game x 2
Well, did you watch Arkansas over LSU in triple overtime? That was just a warmup for Tennessee over Kentucky in 4 overtimes! As my brother said, anything that could happen in college football, you saw in that game.
As many of you know, I am not one for football on TV, but I got in late on the AR/LSU game and had to see the ending. But the TN/KY game watched pretty much all the way thru. Wonder if I will get around to watching the SEC championship? Guess that will depend on if the weather is nice where I am. The last 2 days here have been cold, and today was windy also and that's why I have been watching football.
We did go to K-Mart today - woo-hoo! I got a funnel cake and caught a runaway cart. How much more excitement (not counting football) could one ask for? TM and I were standing eating our funnel cake when I heard a funny noise. I turned around and there was a cart full of stuff headed right for us. The gentleman had put it at his trunk and then went around to open the car door. Then the cart decided to escape. He didn't even realize it had happened until after the excitement was over. (it doesn't take much to excite some of us).
Nick is funny. He has figured out that when we both start moving about in the living/kitchen area, his best bet is to go up the 2 steps to the bedroom area and just watch. He sometimes just lays down and goes to sleep. We are just glad he has started feeling comfortable here.
Well, tomorrow we head out for GA - which is actually only 10 or 12 miles away, but we are going further than that.
God Bless
As many of you know, I am not one for football on TV, but I got in late on the AR/LSU game and had to see the ending. But the TN/KY game watched pretty much all the way thru. Wonder if I will get around to watching the SEC championship? Guess that will depend on if the weather is nice where I am. The last 2 days here have been cold, and today was windy also and that's why I have been watching football.
We did go to K-Mart today - woo-hoo! I got a funnel cake and caught a runaway cart. How much more excitement (not counting football) could one ask for? TM and I were standing eating our funnel cake when I heard a funny noise. I turned around and there was a cart full of stuff headed right for us. The gentleman had put it at his trunk and then went around to open the car door. Then the cart decided to escape. He didn't even realize it had happened until after the excitement was over. (it doesn't take much to excite some of us).
Nick is funny. He has figured out that when we both start moving about in the living/kitchen area, his best bet is to go up the 2 steps to the bedroom area and just watch. He sometimes just lays down and goes to sleep. We are just glad he has started feeling comfortable here.
Well, tomorrow we head out for GA - which is actually only 10 or 12 miles away, but we are going further than that.
God Bless
Friday, November 23, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving
Hope everyone had a lovely holiday. Despite the fact that the day started very rainy, it cleared off enough and turned warm enough (barely) for us to cook on the grill and eat outside. We had planned to have cornish hens and the trimmings, but Bi-Lo was out of cornish hens. We opted for shrimp and salad. Was good. Except Nick wouldn't eat his, so it is a good thing we didn't waste but 2 shrimp trying to get him to join us..
We stayed around the campground Thursday and Black Friday. I would say that Anderson or Seneca are not as bad as some places because of less population. Somehow we did not want to test our theory by going to Wal-Mart.
Since we had rain on Wed. and Thurs. the colors (and leaves) are pretty much gone. That's ok since we leave Sunday to head further south. Yeah!
Not much news this time. We will see what tomorrow brings.
May God bless you all.
We stayed around the campground Thursday and Black Friday. I would say that Anderson or Seneca are not as bad as some places because of less population. Somehow we did not want to test our theory by going to Wal-Mart.
Since we had rain on Wed. and Thurs. the colors (and leaves) are pretty much gone. That's ok since we leave Sunday to head further south. Yeah!
Not much news this time. We will see what tomorrow brings.
May God bless you all.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
It is done
The house is sold! Yeah! Everything went smoothly.
We went to Knox on Tues and finished cleaning out the house and cleaning it up some. More of a job than we expected, but at least there was not furniture to move. We were pretty tired by 5pm. We went to DD#2 home, had supper, and pretty much just vegged before going to bed early. Oh, I got all the laundry done too. Thanks to everyone who helped and who prayed.
So now we are back at Twin Lakes, tired again, but relieved this part is done. The weather is still beautiful and we were surprised how much color is still left in the mountains. Despite the fact that our drive started at nearly 2pm on the "busiest travel day of the year", we had no real hold-ups. A short one just leaving Knox and then about 6 miles of creeping along in Asheville where I26 takes off from I40. All 3 of us were glad it went well..
Yes, Nick is still with us. For those that don't know, traveling man's mother had mentioned wanting him to stay with her. We considered what to do, but TM finally decided that Nick is just too much dog for her. He weighs about 100 lbs and needs to be walked regularly and that would not really be feasible for her. It really was a hard decision tho. We are glad our little 3-some is still together.
TM enjoyed a nice visit with his brother while I ran some errands around Knox. It was good seeing and talking to friends again. Really hated that we missed some, but our time was really limited.. But, hey, cell phones are great and e-mail works too.
My BIL in FL had surgery on Monday and came home this afternoon. Pretty much in record time, guess he really didn't like that hospital food! We are thankful he is doing so well.
On this Thanksgiving Eve, we are thankful for all of you who happen to be reading this - and for all of our other friends. We are thankful for our relatives and their love. We are thankful for our brothers and sisters in Christ and their love. We are so thankful for our children and grandchildren (and granddog). We are thankful for our many blessings thru God.
Have a wonderful holiday.
We went to Knox on Tues and finished cleaning out the house and cleaning it up some. More of a job than we expected, but at least there was not furniture to move. We were pretty tired by 5pm. We went to DD#2 home, had supper, and pretty much just vegged before going to bed early. Oh, I got all the laundry done too. Thanks to everyone who helped and who prayed.
So now we are back at Twin Lakes, tired again, but relieved this part is done. The weather is still beautiful and we were surprised how much color is still left in the mountains. Despite the fact that our drive started at nearly 2pm on the "busiest travel day of the year", we had no real hold-ups. A short one just leaving Knox and then about 6 miles of creeping along in Asheville where I26 takes off from I40. All 3 of us were glad it went well..
Yes, Nick is still with us. For those that don't know, traveling man's mother had mentioned wanting him to stay with her. We considered what to do, but TM finally decided that Nick is just too much dog for her. He weighs about 100 lbs and needs to be walked regularly and that would not really be feasible for her. It really was a hard decision tho. We are glad our little 3-some is still together.
TM enjoyed a nice visit with his brother while I ran some errands around Knox. It was good seeing and talking to friends again. Really hated that we missed some, but our time was really limited.. But, hey, cell phones are great and e-mail works too.
My BIL in FL had surgery on Monday and came home this afternoon. Pretty much in record time, guess he really didn't like that hospital food! We are thankful he is doing so well.
On this Thanksgiving Eve, we are thankful for all of you who happen to be reading this - and for all of our other friends. We are thankful for our relatives and their love. We are thankful for our brothers and sisters in Christ and their love. We are so thankful for our children and grandchildren (and granddog). We are thankful for our many blessings thru God.
Have a wonderful holiday.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Twin Lakes
We left Knoxville around 11 am on Monday, 11/12, about 1 hr later than we had (semi) planned. We got up on time, but just didn't seem to get things coordinated quickly. After breakfast at Long's, we went by to have our power of attorney notarized. Thanks Heather.
If you use diesel fuel, do you still say we gassed up the truck or should it be we dieseled up the truck? Anyway, we did that, closed the trailer, hooked up and were on our way. It was a beautiful drive. Since the colors are so late this year, we were treated to quite a display of color coming over the mountains of NC. The trip was smooth and quicker than we had anticipated. The program said 4 hrs, but we had figured on 6. We made it in about 4 hrs. 15 min. Of course we didn't stop for a meal, just rest area stops. After our big breakfast, we just didn't get hungry. Well, I guess the fact that I slept a lot of the way would be a part of it.
Anyway, we had no trouble finding the campground. When we checked in, the host said that we would not be able to put this camper in the spot held for us. He gave us 3 other spots to look at. At the 1st one, we broke our rule to stop and look before pulling in. That cost us. We could not get the trailer level, plus we broke the pigtail that connects the trailer brake to the truck. Not a good idea, don't try it. So we were able to move on to the 2nd spot. It turned out to be just about perfect. Nice and level, plus easy to get into. Our view is good also. Across the lake we can see Clemson University football field. The colors here are still beautiful also.
Tuesday, we drove to Spartanburg where there is a Camping World, to get a new pigtail. Well, that was a waste. They had the cord, but not the parts needed to install it. So TM just went to Advance Auto and got what he needed to fix the one we broke. He was not a happy camper at that point. We had driven an hour to get what we could have gotten at Radio Shack just 20 minutes away. Some of us just have to learn the hard way. After he got the pigtail fixed, we sat out on our "patio" and just watched the lake (it behaved).
Wednesday, we went to Walmart in Seneca, about a 20 min. drive. Spent some money getting groceries and a few other things. Also a trip to K-mart and the bank. When we got back, we did more of what we did yesterday, just sitting watching the lake. We went to Bible study at Seneca Church of Christ. It was interesting.
Today we have been concentrating on getting this place organized. Not an easy job considering the clutter people that we are. But we are getting it under control. We did not sit outside today as it was cold and windy.
We are loving it. And Nick is settling in with the new routine.
God Bless,
If you use diesel fuel, do you still say we gassed up the truck or should it be we dieseled up the truck? Anyway, we did that, closed the trailer, hooked up and were on our way. It was a beautiful drive. Since the colors are so late this year, we were treated to quite a display of color coming over the mountains of NC. The trip was smooth and quicker than we had anticipated. The program said 4 hrs, but we had figured on 6. We made it in about 4 hrs. 15 min. Of course we didn't stop for a meal, just rest area stops. After our big breakfast, we just didn't get hungry. Well, I guess the fact that I slept a lot of the way would be a part of it.
Anyway, we had no trouble finding the campground. When we checked in, the host said that we would not be able to put this camper in the spot held for us. He gave us 3 other spots to look at. At the 1st one, we broke our rule to stop and look before pulling in. That cost us. We could not get the trailer level, plus we broke the pigtail that connects the trailer brake to the truck. Not a good idea, don't try it. So we were able to move on to the 2nd spot. It turned out to be just about perfect. Nice and level, plus easy to get into. Our view is good also. Across the lake we can see Clemson University football field. The colors here are still beautiful also.
Tuesday, we drove to Spartanburg where there is a Camping World, to get a new pigtail. Well, that was a waste. They had the cord, but not the parts needed to install it. So TM just went to Advance Auto and got what he needed to fix the one we broke. He was not a happy camper at that point. We had driven an hour to get what we could have gotten at Radio Shack just 20 minutes away. Some of us just have to learn the hard way. After he got the pigtail fixed, we sat out on our "patio" and just watched the lake (it behaved).
Wednesday, we went to Walmart in Seneca, about a 20 min. drive. Spent some money getting groceries and a few other things. Also a trip to K-mart and the bank. When we got back, we did more of what we did yesterday, just sitting watching the lake. We went to Bible study at Seneca Church of Christ. It was interesting.
Today we have been concentrating on getting this place organized. Not an easy job considering the clutter people that we are. But we are getting it under control. We did not sit outside today as it was cold and windy.
We are loving it. And Nick is settling in with the new routine.
God Bless,
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Back in Knoxville
So we had 10 days to clean out the house and arrange everything for the sale of the house. Our schedule was something like: see stuff, make decision on where it goes, sleep; see stuff, make decision on where it goes, sleep, etc., etc., etc. The last 2 days were hectic and very tiring.
I did some volunteering at the gift shop during this time, also.
On top of that, my sister moved in the same day we arrived home. She is moving to Knoxville and needed a place to stay until she found an apartment - also a job. I am glad to say she has found the apt. and will be moved out by 11/20. We close on the house on the 21st.
It had been very hard to leave our friends, especially those at Laurel. They are all so wonderful.
And for me, it was hard leaving my gift shop friends. The manager has been my closest friend for some years now. (She may have to put up with lots of phone calls from me)
Now we are at Twin Lakes Campground, SC. That is near Clemson. It is beautiful. I will catch you up on the trip here on Monday with the next post.
God Bless
I did some volunteering at the gift shop during this time, also.
On top of that, my sister moved in the same day we arrived home. She is moving to Knoxville and needed a place to stay until she found an apartment - also a job. I am glad to say she has found the apt. and will be moved out by 11/20. We close on the house on the 21st.
It had been very hard to leave our friends, especially those at Laurel. They are all so wonderful.
And for me, it was hard leaving my gift shop friends. The manager has been my closest friend for some years now. (She may have to put up with lots of phone calls from me)
Now we are at Twin Lakes Campground, SC. That is near Clemson. It is beautiful. I will catch you up on the trip here on Monday with the next post.
God Bless
Headed home
We left early Saturday morning for Mt. Home, AR. Had a very pleasant trip to Springfield, MO, where we stopped to see the railroad bridge. That's not quite right. It is a pedestrian bridge over the rail yard. They say there are 13 tracks going under the bridge. I just know that it was pretty nifty. We saw one short train and one really l-o-n-g coal train.
We stopped for the night just outside of Mt. Home. Actually we stopped for 2 nights. On Sunday, we attended services and then headed out for some sight seeing (after lunch, of course). We went to Buffalo point on the Buffalo National River - the nation's 1st National River. It is really something. The current there at the bend of the river is somewhat wicked, but that doesn't stop the canoers and kayakers.
On Monday morning we headed for Calico Rock, AR. Traveling man used to go to that area to hunt and I had visited there once. It is hardly changed. The soda shop still has the old, ornate cash register and good ice cream. T.M. was disappointed that the hardware store was no longer in operation. It had closed in Feb. That had the really ornate, gilded cash register.
We arrived in Memphis just after 4 pm. After checking into the hotel, I called my Aunt Lilly and we met her, Uncle Jack and cousin Mary at Cracker Barrel for dinner. For those who don't know, Mary had a liver transplant in the Spring and has had several complications. I am happy to say that things seem to have straightened and she is looking good. We had a great visit.
Tuesday was the drive home, where we arrived tired and happy.
God Bless
We stopped for the night just outside of Mt. Home. Actually we stopped for 2 nights. On Sunday, we attended services and then headed out for some sight seeing (after lunch, of course). We went to Buffalo point on the Buffalo National River - the nation's 1st National River. It is really something. The current there at the bend of the river is somewhat wicked, but that doesn't stop the canoers and kayakers.
On Monday morning we headed for Calico Rock, AR. Traveling man used to go to that area to hunt and I had visited there once. It is hardly changed. The soda shop still has the old, ornate cash register and good ice cream. T.M. was disappointed that the hardware store was no longer in operation. It had closed in Feb. That had the really ornate, gilded cash register.
We arrived in Memphis just after 4 pm. After checking into the hotel, I called my Aunt Lilly and we met her, Uncle Jack and cousin Mary at Cracker Barrel for dinner. For those who don't know, Mary had a liver transplant in the Spring and has had several complications. I am happy to say that things seem to have straightened and she is looking good. We had a great visit.
Tuesday was the drive home, where we arrived tired and happy.
God Bless
Winding up Missouri
I didn't think I had fallen quite so far behind. We had our bellsouth internet disconnected and there were 3 of us trying to use the one machine that has Verizon internet. I will give a quick overview of the rest of our Missouri trip.
Sunday morning we attended Camdenton Church of Christ and you would have thought we were royalty. They were thrilled to see us. We enjoyed the people and the services a lot. When we went back for night services, they were even more welcoming. We went to the home of brother and sister Alexander for coffee and conversation. It was interesting and fun. We all felt right at home.
Monday it rained all day, so we took it very easy. Easy, as in read, fall asleep, read, fall asleep - you know the drill. The men stayed on the computers.
Tuesday, I had a wonky stomach, so traveling friends went to Osage State Park and hiked a bit. Later we went to dinner and to the Main Street Opry. This is a fun show and we were very glad we made it there.
Wednesday was an absolutely beautiful day. We all went to Ha Ha Tonka State Park. It is called that because the white man thought it was Indian for laughing water. Wonder how much the Indians laughed at that! The "castle ruins" on the bluff was interesting and the view was magnificant. The "castle" was built in the early 1900's as a summer home for a Kansas City family. It later became a hotel and then burned in 1945. The carriage house was built to hold 100 horses, 30 autos and the caretaker's family. Does that give you an idea of the size?
Thursday was cave day. We toured Bridal Cave. Then we drove to Richland to eat at Caveman's Barbeque and Steak Cave. It is a restaurant in a cave. The man opened it about 13 years ago and it is really neat. You can't drive up to the cave, just wait in the parking lot below for the "taxi" service. The owner was driving our taxi and it was great getting the story of the cave and resort.
Friday, traveling friends left to go visit with some relatives, so traveling man and I rented a car to tour the area. We headed to Versailles to see Jacobs Cave. That is pronounced Ver-sails. Jacobs was really interesting especially so because there were only 5 of us on the tour. The guide didn't rush as he was enjoying telling us a lot about the history of the cave and the excavation that is now being done.
Well, that is quick coverage of the week. Ask questions and I will give more details. :)
God Bless
Sunday morning we attended Camdenton Church of Christ and you would have thought we were royalty. They were thrilled to see us. We enjoyed the people and the services a lot. When we went back for night services, they were even more welcoming. We went to the home of brother and sister Alexander for coffee and conversation. It was interesting and fun. We all felt right at home.
Monday it rained all day, so we took it very easy. Easy, as in read, fall asleep, read, fall asleep - you know the drill. The men stayed on the computers.
Tuesday, I had a wonky stomach, so traveling friends went to Osage State Park and hiked a bit. Later we went to dinner and to the Main Street Opry. This is a fun show and we were very glad we made it there.
Wednesday was an absolutely beautiful day. We all went to Ha Ha Tonka State Park. It is called that because the white man thought it was Indian for laughing water. Wonder how much the Indians laughed at that! The "castle ruins" on the bluff was interesting and the view was magnificant. The "castle" was built in the early 1900's as a summer home for a Kansas City family. It later became a hotel and then burned in 1945. The carriage house was built to hold 100 horses, 30 autos and the caretaker's family. Does that give you an idea of the size?
Thursday was cave day. We toured Bridal Cave. Then we drove to Richland to eat at Caveman's Barbeque and Steak Cave. It is a restaurant in a cave. The man opened it about 13 years ago and it is really neat. You can't drive up to the cave, just wait in the parking lot below for the "taxi" service. The owner was driving our taxi and it was great getting the story of the cave and resort.
Friday, traveling friends left to go visit with some relatives, so traveling man and I rented a car to tour the area. We headed to Versailles to see Jacobs Cave. That is pronounced Ver-sails. Jacobs was really interesting especially so because there were only 5 of us on the tour. The guide didn't rush as he was enjoying telling us a lot about the history of the cave and the excavation that is now being done.
Well, that is quick coverage of the week. Ask questions and I will give more details. :)
God Bless
Monday, November 5, 2007
Day 3
Saturdan, 10/20
We decided not to go into St. Louis, so headed West.
We stopped at Maremec Caverns for the tour. Maremec has an interesting history as well as being quite lovely. There is one portion that is still so active that there were plexiglass screens to keep guests from getting soaked (also, I suspect, to keep inquiring hands from touching). Legend has it that Frank and Jesse James used this cave as a hideout after one of their train robberies.
After eating a bit of ice cream, we continued West. Too much later, we found a place for lunch. A neat place called "Margies" in Vienna, MO. So we pretty well stuffed ourselves. It is a good thing we stopped there, because there was no place between there and Osage Beach - about a 90 minute drive. If we had not eaten, I am sure we would have all thought it was much longer.
We arrived at Osage Beach Worldmark about 4 pm to check in. After playing musical keys because the desk clerk was having a ditzy day, we got into Unit 113. Right on the lake!. We could stand on the balcony and watch the boaters. Could almost throw a line in to fish from the balcony. The master bedroom also overlooked the lake. We all liked it a lot.
We decided not to go into St. Louis, so headed West.
We stopped at Maremec Caverns for the tour. Maremec has an interesting history as well as being quite lovely. There is one portion that is still so active that there were plexiglass screens to keep guests from getting soaked (also, I suspect, to keep inquiring hands from touching). Legend has it that Frank and Jesse James used this cave as a hideout after one of their train robberies.
After eating a bit of ice cream, we continued West. Too much later, we found a place for lunch. A neat place called "Margies" in Vienna, MO. So we pretty well stuffed ourselves. It is a good thing we stopped there, because there was no place between there and Osage Beach - about a 90 minute drive. If we had not eaten, I am sure we would have all thought it was much longer.
We arrived at Osage Beach Worldmark about 4 pm to check in. After playing musical keys because the desk clerk was having a ditzy day, we got into Unit 113. Right on the lake!. We could stand on the balcony and watch the boaters. Could almost throw a line in to fish from the balcony. The master bedroom also overlooked the lake. We all liked it a lot.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Day 2 - 10/19/07
After breakfast at the hotel, we headed for Hickman, KY. I think we blinked and missed the town, but we did find the Hickman-Dorena Ferry. It was a very cool, windy 20 minute ride; that we spent mostly in the car. We were the only ones on the ferry. Apparently their schedule
is "when someone shows up, we go."
Up the river coast of MO/IL, we crossed on the old bridge at Cairo (shiver) to Ft. Defience. This is at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. Wicked currents so I wouldn't want to be in a small boat there. This was also a beginning point for Lewis and Clark.
On to Cape Girardeau, Mo to see the murals on the river wall, ie. levee. It is beautifully done. We met some very friendly local folks (and their dog) just enjoying the beautiful day and watching the river go by.
Also at the visitors center there was a lovely lady, 85 y.o., who knew a lot, lot about the history and people. She gave me her card so that I could get in touch with her later. She is a good friend of JoAnn Emerson, who is running for congress (replacing her husband, Bill, who died not too long ago). Perhaps I will be able to find a family connection.
Then to St. Genevive, the oldest town on the west shore of the MS river (maybe). It has beautiful old French Colonial/Creole architure. I would love to go back sometime and really see the place. It was near 5pm when we were there, so everything was closed. Plus we were ready to find a place to stop for the night. We stayed the night at Arnold, MO, outside of St. Louis.
Oops, forgot to say we stopped at Lambert's, the Home of Throwed Rolls for lunch. L-o-n-g line, so we went to Frankie's Home Cooking and had a delicious meal.
is "when someone shows up, we go."
Up the river coast of MO/IL, we crossed on the old bridge at Cairo (shiver) to Ft. Defience. This is at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. Wicked currents so I wouldn't want to be in a small boat there. This was also a beginning point for Lewis and Clark.
On to Cape Girardeau, Mo to see the murals on the river wall, ie. levee. It is beautifully done. We met some very friendly local folks (and their dog) just enjoying the beautiful day and watching the river go by.
Also at the visitors center there was a lovely lady, 85 y.o., who knew a lot, lot about the history and people. She gave me her card so that I could get in touch with her later. She is a good friend of JoAnn Emerson, who is running for congress (replacing her husband, Bill, who died not too long ago). Perhaps I will be able to find a family connection.
Then to St. Genevive, the oldest town on the west shore of the MS river (maybe). It has beautiful old French Colonial/Creole architure. I would love to go back sometime and really see the place. It was near 5pm when we were there, so everything was closed. Plus we were ready to find a place to stop for the night. We stayed the night at Arnold, MO, outside of St. Louis.
Oops, forgot to say we stopped at Lambert's, the Home of Throwed Rolls for lunch. L-o-n-g line, so we went to Frankie's Home Cooking and had a delicious meal.
Back Again
We had a wonderful trip to Lake of the Ozarks, MO. Unfortuneately our connection was very slow, so I did not get to update. I"ll not do it all in one post. but will separate each day into a different post.
Day 1 - 10/18-07
Our traveling friends picked us up at our house about 9 am. Since we had agreed to eat breakfast on the road, I didn't have to get up very early. We made it clear to Harriman (about 30 minutes) before we stopped at Cracker Barrel. With full bellies we were on the road again
Our plan had been to travel to Union City, TN, the first night. didn't happen - too many places to stop and things to see.
We stopped first at Charlotte, TN at courthouse square. We found a very nice bookstore/coffee bar. The owner had a very organized system. We only bough 2 books - what restraint!
We stopped at Hollow Rock, TN and photoed THE hollow rock (ooh's and aah's please).
Then to the abandoned railroad roundhouse in Bruceton. There was even a train that went by while we would there.
Later while at the courthouse in Humphreys Co., TN, we were welcomed by a very friendly gentleman. He couldn't wait to tell us about his uncle, Marston C. Evans, who had been killed in WWII, and how his medals had been lost years ago and then returned only last year. I really love this kind of stuff.
We finally stopped in Martin, TN, to spend the night. Not too awfully far from Union City. And plenty close enough to catch the ferry across the river the next morning.
Day 1 - 10/18-07
Our traveling friends picked us up at our house about 9 am. Since we had agreed to eat breakfast on the road, I didn't have to get up very early. We made it clear to Harriman (about 30 minutes) before we stopped at Cracker Barrel. With full bellies we were on the road again
Our plan had been to travel to Union City, TN, the first night. didn't happen - too many places to stop and things to see.
We stopped first at Charlotte, TN at courthouse square. We found a very nice bookstore/coffee bar. The owner had a very organized system. We only bough 2 books - what restraint!
We stopped at Hollow Rock, TN and photoed THE hollow rock (ooh's and aah's please).
Then to the abandoned railroad roundhouse in Bruceton. There was even a train that went by while we would there.
Later while at the courthouse in Humphreys Co., TN, we were welcomed by a very friendly gentleman. He couldn't wait to tell us about his uncle, Marston C. Evans, who had been killed in WWII, and how his medals had been lost years ago and then returned only last year. I really love this kind of stuff.
We finally stopped in Martin, TN, to spend the night. Not too awfully far from Union City. And plenty close enough to catch the ferry across the river the next morning.
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