Today, we awoke in Booneville, Missouri. We had our leisurely morning and did not begin our travels until about 11-11:30 am central time. We started in the center of Missouri and drove to the western boundary of the state. Independence, Missouri, and Kansas City are in the general vicinity. The lady on the Garmin took us through downtown Kansas City which was a nightmare. All the twists and turns made the drive tense. Fortunately, it was at noon and the traffic was not as heavy as it could have been. We made it admirably. I will never follow the GPS through KC again. Take the by-pass, I-470.
Also, as we traveled through Independence, Missouri, I thought of the pioneers 100-150 years ago. It was their last stop of civilization to pack their small wagons with a few prized possessions, the clothes on their backs, needed supplies, and a few quilts. The most important struggle for them was facing the elements. I am so grateful that I am crossing the same trail in my wagon called a motorhome, especially since I am sitting here having just completed a hot shower and feeling refreshed.
As we passed signs on I-70, they had a yellow flower on them that resembled a sunflower. As I learned on the evening news, Kansas is the sunflower state.
Kansas has a bum reputation as being flat and boring. So far today, I would have to say that is all hogwash. Kansas, west of Topeka is very rolling with hills that are covered with golden grass and no trees. The area was sparsely populated with fields filled with cows and cattle: they were called ranches instead of farms. Exits off the interstate highway, stopped at one end and continued at the other end to ranches, hence the road was called Ranch Road.
In the middle of the day, we stopped, took a siesta, and had our large meal of the day. We then proceeded to Salina, Kansas. On the way, the sun was shining. It is so amazing how the sun rays can lift the spirits. We were so thankful and glad.
Our destination for the night is the WalMart parking lot in Salina, Kansas. As I am writing, I hear the trains in the background. The toots of the horn and the clickety-clack of the tracks are enough to put a person to sleep. Goodnight for today.
No comments:
Post a Comment