Heading North

It was a fun week taking in the sites around the middle section of the country, but it was time to start heading north.
We drove up Hwy 7 out of Hot Spring, through the winding mountain roads. It took 2 hours to drive from Hot Spring up to interstate 40. 70 miles!!! Once on 40, we quickly got to our first stop, Pea Ridge National Battlefield. I had never heard of this place, but it was worth the stop. It also was a stop on the Trail of Tears. We had a very nice picnic in the wonderfully warm afternoon and headed north once more toward Kansas City.
A very nice discovery on our was was a stop off at George Washington Carver site. We didn't arrive with enough time to enjoy it too much, but next time, we will be sure to have more time to explore.

Finally, 9 hours after leaving Hot Spring, we arrived in Kansas City and went straight to Sue (Kochaver) Tyler's house. Sue was waiting for us, along with Jeff, Amanda and Alex, and our friends Chris (Martins) Scott and her husband Terry. We enjoyed a nice dinner and had a great time visiting with everyone. Oh, it was so good to catch up and laugh, a lot!

We spent a nice night at the Holiday Inn Express in Independence, which I can highly recommend. We were off again in the morning, but before we actually left town, a quick stop at the Truman House and Gates BBQ. We had to bring ribs back home. I guess Kansas City BBQ is the best. Who knows for sure, but it is good.

We had a quick stop in Lamoni and Graceland College for a trip down memory lane for me. I was able to show my sister where I went to school, since no one had seen my old school before. We also had a fun stop at the Pizza Shack and had a quick visit with Janelle (Jones) Anders. It was an enjoyable visit. Janelle, remember, you are welcome to visit and go to the Twins game, any time!

It was a long drive, a little snow along the way, but we finally made it home to Minneapolis by 10.
Now recovery!