Monday, August 13, 2018

Feels Like Home...Springfield, Missouri

I arrive in Springfield for the fourth time
to visit son Shawn 
and daughter-in-love Francee.
Rob and I arrive for the third year at
Route 66 KOA,
a nice family place to stay.
And a great swimming pool!


Morning and evening swims.
Part of my summer routine.

Shopping at Bass Pro where Shawn is a photographer.
The Route 66  Festival 
Over 500 classic cars
Photo by Shawn Watson Photography
(my son)
I need an updated photo for my upcoming book
LADY ON THE RUN


The Route 66 Festival almost got rained out the first night.
Thunder and lightning way too close for comfort!
But the Bass Pro Aquarium and Wildlife Museum was outstanding!
The prettiest fish I've ever seen!


World largest polar bear from Alaska!


New bestie friend.


We spent a few days together at a lovely RV park in Lebanon, MO.
Hidden Valley Outfitters RV Park (HVO)

We felt welcome from the moment we drove up!

Francee chillin' on the river


Great BBQ tri-tip.  Thanks Shawn!

There was much to do, but won't get into details.
Now we must say 'farewell' for now...the hardest part of one's visit.

Just remember, wherever you travel ...

Nature has been for me, for as long as I can remember,
a source of solace, inspiration, adventure, and delight.


God's Word and our prayers make every item in creation holy.
I Timothy 4:1


A Most Sacred Place ... Arlington Cemetery

In the long run, the pessimist may be proved to be right,
but the optimist has a better time on the trip.




My DC bucket list was completed
when we spent time at the Arlington Cemetery.

We arrived just before dusk.
Walking up the hill to the place where they perform the
Changing of the Guards
was a breathtaking experience.
On my right, my left, in front of me, and behind me,
I was surrounded by the sacred graves
 of the men and women who
gave their lives that we may experience
FREEDOM.
God bless every one of them,
and God bless those who lost their loved ones in one of the many wars
that was fought to keep our freedom.



Before the ceremony began,
I gazed beyond the cemetery and beheld 
our nation's Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial.
At 7:00 p.m. sharp, the changing of the guards began.
Not a word was spoken.
Total silence.
Except for the birds chirping above.

Changing of the Guards




I'll remember these moments forever.

Put your hope in the Lord.
Travel steadily along His path.
Psalm 37:34



GOD BLESS AMERICA!

On life's journey, whether traveling around the world or walking around your block, there's lots to learn about life, faith, friendship and fun! so lets dive into a new ocean together ... and lets keep that body movin'!