A Mid Week Vacation Report from Branson MO

A welcome site on the 16 truck ride - two sleeping children!

Today is Wednesday and I am sitting on our townhouse balcony overlooking a quaint fountain and flowing river in Branson, Missouri.

It’s been quite a journey since we left Michigan a week ago today, traveling first through St. Louis, a beloved city for me, and onto Litchfield, MO for a stopover before continuing on to Eureka Springs, Arkansas and The Lake House.

The view from the Lake House

The Lake House is near Rogers, Arkansas, where my Aunt Sara grew up. The kids & I were joined by Mom & Dad, Grandma, A. Karen & U. John Greek and U. John Brother & A. Sara. The Lake House overlooked (gasp!) beautiful Beaver Dam Lake.

Each morning, we awoke to steam rising off the water in the distance and, below, the dewy trees waiting for the sun to dry them. The hot chocolate and quiet porch helped me start my day.

Staying there afforded us the opportunity to put the kids to bed early and enjoy an extended family dinner with sweet tomato sauces, pasta & olive oil, fine wine, sourdough bread and Ghirardelli Chocolates. The conversation was welcome, too.

During the day, the whole of us travelled the countryside, visiting the hundreds of craft booths connected with the War Eagle Fair, a brilliant fair of talented people selling their wares and creations. It was the most unique art fair I’ve ever attended and I am so thankful we were able to visit.

On our way out of the state on Saturday, we drove through the most charming village of Eureka Springs, AK. A triangular building on a corner brought back memories from England and all the adorable shops along the street transformed a person back in time to another era of living. The train station nestled in the deep ravine and wooded area added a touch of the turn of the century to the town. It’s the only town in America in which all the downtown buildings are listed on the National Historic Registry.

Branson Scenic Railway - On the tressel

We arrived in Branson later that day and eagerly awaited Al’s arrival. He was also bringing Samson and Eden was so excited, she could hardly contain herself. After they arrived, my chauffeurs drove back to the house in Arkansas and The Strawn’s were back together after two weeks apart.

Sunday after church we settled in to our townhouse and read up on the area activities. Lars and Eden played with their daddy and I enjoyed some peace and quiet before supper.

Mom and Dad arrived Monday afternoon and since then, everybody has been able to nap, watch movies and cartoons, take walks, sip drinks, rock on the decks, play on the playground, soak in whirlpool tubs, (WARNING: DO NOT USE BABY SOAP AS BUBBLE BATH WITH JETS. BIG MESS) and generally relax. We’ve yet to try out the indoor pool, but plan to do that shortly after the kids wake up.

Yesterday, we all walked down around the shops at Branson Landing, and we took a two hour train ride into the Ozarks on a vintage train.

Al and I saw “Twelve Irish Tenors” this morning and Dad and Mom are currently enjoying “50’s at the Hop”. After supper, we’re heading back out on the town to see “SIX”, Branson’s hottest new show.

Not sure what the rest of the week will hold, but so far, we’re thankful for the opportunity to get away as a family before the busy church season arrives. More to come…

Dad making apple cider from the crab apples in our backyard and the antique cider mill