Branson, MO (USA)

Kids would have slept in again, but this time I woke them up at 0830L. Katie and John made delicious pancakes in the room on their griddle and we got everyone back down the the water park by 1000L. Kids had fun for a couple of hours while I checked us out of the hotel rooms. Later, I walked around to shoot video and buy souvenirs. Even had a chance to drop off a patch for the "Wall of Honor" in the main building. Got everyone out of the pool around noon and we headed down the street for lunch (Taco Bell). Kids had a good time visiting and enjoying each others' company (wish we could do this kind of thing more often...). Finished around 1300L and then drove back down to Old Branson to shop for a short time. We got some tasty treats at an old fashioned candy store. Sadly, the time had come (1400L) for us to part - we said goodbye in town and then headed south. I had decided to see if the route through Arkansas was faster or more interesting... I must say, driving through the Ozarks (via US-65) was regenerating (only eight hours from DFW area - almost the same distance to the Davis Mountains...). I'd like to return - could be a fun weekend anywhere between Branson and Little Rock. Found whitewater rafting (complete with Duckies - see AUG 2007) and other excitement at the Buffalo River Recreation Area (national park). Made pretty good time - just a short delay in Marshall for fuel and Subway sandwiches (1530L). Rain sprinkles as we arrived in Conway - off and on all the way to Texarkana (via I-40 east, I-430 and I-30 west). Made really good time to Texas border. Talked to Katie on the phone and learned their family was able to visit Mansfield and Laura Ingalls Wilder's home (see AUG 2008). Rest of drive was pretty uneventful - no traffic jams or really bad weather all the way. Stopped for fuel and restrooms in Greenville, TX, and then made good time through Dallas and Fort Worth. Home at 2230L - whew!