Adventuring to the Gulf Coast

We arrived in Theodore, AL (actually Mobile) on Good Friday for a stay at All About Relaxing RV Park.  Isn’t that a great name for a RV park?  It is a smaller park but super clean and well maintained.  There are even electric gates to get in and out of the park so the secure feeling is heightened as well.  I have been very impressed with the staff and the super fast wi-fi in the park that is included in the fee.  This is a place I will visit again.  What a great welcome sign!

Welcome Larry and Beverly

We attended the Easter sunrise service at Bellingrath Gardens just down the road a bit.  The weather was perfect and we really enjoyed worshiping with others this special day.  Afterwards, we ate at the café on the grounds and then toured the gardens and house.  A lot of the folks at the sunrise service were locals that left and went to their home church so there were times when we felt as if we were the only ones wandering the grounds.

Easter Sunrise Service Cross

Supposedly most visitors only take about 45 minutes to view the gardens.  We were so taken with the beauty and the moment that 3 hours later, we finally had seen enough and were tired enough to go back to relaxing at our aptly named RV Park.  From big to small, we saw it all.  See if you can spot the butterfly.

The next day, we enjoyed a meal at Dick Russell’s BBQ restaurant.  Even though the meal was good, the really fine time to eat here is at breakfast.  Yes, you heard right, breakfast.  The reason is some of the best Southern Breakfast dining in Mobile and they make homemade biscuits every 15 minutes.  Even at other meal times when offered garlic bread versus biscuits, choose the biscuits.  They alone are worth the stop, no matter what time!

Reading these accounts you might get the impression that we do not do anything but go sightseeing.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  We live every day just as if we are in a sticks and brick location and do the things one would ordinarily do in that situation.  These include, but are not limited to things such as cleaning the house, cooking meals, washing clothes and all the required maintenance on the home.  Occasionally, we even have to look for something, or in the case below, retrieve something that has fallen underneath the couch.  Of course, there is only one of us nimble and thin enough to make the trip fully up under the sofa and manage to back out again.

Besides the ordinary and mundane tasks associated with living, we do have the opportunity to work on projects and hobbies.  Here is proof that Beverly knows how to sand wood.  She is prepping some wooden crates prior to painting and assembly.  The finished project will be posted again later.  Its purpose is to organize and house some of the items she likes to keep beside her chair in the living room.

I have always wanted to visit Beauvoir in Biloxi, MS.  Since it is only a few miles away, we made a trip to tour the house and grounds one afternoon.  Why you ask?  Well let me tell you.  The house is the last residence of Jefferson F. Davis, the former President of the Confederate States of America.  As a matter-of-fact he is the only President of the CSA.  My great-grandfather, who was the first Quinn in my paternal ancestry line born in Texas, was named after him and both my father and myself were named after our grandfather and great grandfather.  We forgot our camera and did not use the cell phones, so no pictures of this stop.

I come from a long line of Southern ancestry and have always been interested in the Civil War time period in U.S. history.  Learning of the name connection increased my curiosity and interest in the story surrounding Davis’ life after the end of the war.  The home is situated right on the beach looking out at the Gulf of Mexico waters and has survived numerous hurricanes, even the most recent Katrina.  Most of the furnishings are original to the Davis family that occupied the house.  The house tour host was great and added a lot of back story to the house, history, construction, furnishings and daily family life so our trip was well worth the visit.

While in the Mobile area we were bemused to hear the many news stories surrounding the building and opening of the first Buc-ee's outside the State of Texas.  The first location in Louisiana fell through so the next location, which is around Mobile, is now the first.  It seems there is a lot of interest and curiosity about this 'convenience store' in the bay area.  Being Texans and familiar with Buc-ee's, we are definitely excited about this development too.  This could be like Cracker Barrel and become a well-known institution nationwide.

Our last stop in the Mobile area was Dauphin Island and Fort Gaines.  The fort is located on a spit of land (Dauphin Island) that was the base of operations for the French when exploring and maintaining a presence in the New World before Napoleon sold the holdings to the U. S. under President Thomas Jefferson.  The fort was built to protect America’s coastline prior to the Civil War and is the site of the naval battle for Mobile Bay where the Union Admiral David Farragut supposedly uttered the famous line, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!”

We saw this as we arrived on Dauphin Island.  We have labeled these the 'World's Skinniest Condos'.  They are indeed condos and are indeed 'skinny'.

We had a great time exploring and poking around the fort, imagining all kinds of things as we learned the history of the site and about the folks that worked and served at the fort.  Our next stop is the beach.  We are headed to Gulf Shores State Park on the beach in Gulf Shores, AL for the next two weeks.

Sign at entrance with famous quote

Entering main grounds inside the fort

Each circular platform is for cannon emplacement

Cannon ball dent inside the fort wall

Stay tuned for more Adventures in the Adventurer.  Be safe until next time.

Finishing up Branson

Our last week in Branson was actually quite busy.  We had a quiet weekend and celebrated our anniversary on Sunday by eating out and attending a show put on by Dailey and Vincent.  It was a great show by a great bluegrass group.  They recognized us during the show and sang a song (My Only Love) during the performance in our honor.  Afterwards they gave Beverly a T-shirt and CD (which contains the song) for being at the show and liking their Facebook page.  We had a great time and capped off our perfect day.

Dailey and Vincent show, snowing inside the theatre

We received several free show tickets from our campground hosts and decided to fill up our remaining time in Branson with shows and performances.  Monday we ate with the Chuckwagon gang out at Shepherd of the Hills.  They cook the old-time chuckwagon meal right on the premises and then provide entertainment ala cowboys around the campfire at Christmas.  They told stories, jokes and sang songs as would have happened in days gone by.  The food was good and the time passed fast.

Afterwards we headed over the Hughes Brothers’ Theatre to see the Hughes Brothers and their families in a Christmas show.  It was a variety type show, similar to the Andy Williams shows on TV in years past.  They featured their entire families which included 35 children varying in age from early 20s to just a few months old.  At the end, they had a story about the symbols and colors of Christmas and how they all point to Christ.  A very entertaining group, with a lot of mouths to feed, that put on a great feel good show.

On Tuesday, we headed over to the Little Opry Theatre for a Sanders Family Christmas.  This is the sequel to Smoke on the Mountain.  The theatre is small and was not very full.  The audience was enthusiastic and would interact with the performers which made for a great evening of fun for all.  This particular cast was very entertaining to the point that we would actually go back to see them again.  Little June was a hoot.

The Sanders Family is a group of singers performing their annual Christmas presentation for the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church but poor Little June does not have a singing voice.  She instead ‘signs’ the songs for the audience, even though there are no deaf folks in the congregation.  Her signs are a combination of real sign language and her own interpretation of an appropriate sign to use.  She also has a ‘key’ role in a particular song using bells as you see from the picture below, she did not have enough hands to ring all the required notes so she improvised her own method of ringing the bells.

Lil' June displaying her bell ringing cleverness

We also enjoyed a dinner show at Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede.  You get a full meal to eat but no utensils to eat them with so a different experience for sure.  During the meal, the waitress tapped me on the shoulder and asked me if I wanted to 'participate' in the show.  I being the gullible, likable person I am shook my head yes between bites of chicken.  Little did I know it was a competition and I was representing my side of the arena in a battle of horseshoes.  Not just any kind of horseshoes but Ozark style horseshoes.  You may not be able to tell from the picture below but the 'horseshoes' we are throwing are toilet seats.  Yes, but never used for their intended purpose toilet seats.  Alas, like Casey at Bat, I too failed to deliver the win for our side of the arena.  Close but not close enough.  I think I was distracted.

Ozark horseshoes, mine are red!

Having finished our ‘Christmas’ trip to Branson we headed back to Texas to enjoy the holidays with family and friends.  We also attended to some doctor appointments.  One thing led to another and we did not get to head out of state as soon as originally planned.  So we spent some time in and around North and East Texas.

Goodbye little yellow tree that is no longer yellow

This allowed us to catch up with friends and make new friends.  We met a wonderful couple from Canada.  We called them our Canadian neighbors (they literally were parked next door as neighbors) and we really enjoyed visiting with them during their brief stay.  We also caught back up with a high school friend and his wife that introduced us to a volunteer group.  Having a bit of time on our hands before actually hitting the road once again, we decided to join in and see if we could enjoy this activity.

The group we volunteered with is Texas Baptist Men Camp Builders.  It is one of several ‘builder’ groups with the Texas Baptist Men volunteer organization.  The organization also has other areas of volunteering under their umbrella with one being the well-known Disaster Relief group that springs into action when needed during and after a disaster.

The builder project we helped with was in Lone Star, Texas at Lakeview Baptist Encampment.  Each year the Texas camps schedule jobs with TBM and for three weeks the volunteers show up and work on whatever building project is underway.  This year the project(s) at Lakeview included renovating a worship/meeting center and upgrading bathrooms in an older dormitory.  Our traveling friends David and Sophie also joined in as first-time volunteers.

I can say we had a very good time and will definitely do more volunteering in the future.  However, the first week I truly wondered what I had got myself into.  All of my muscles were so sore and my body was so tired.  We quickly realized that not working (i.e. retirement) had allowed our bodies to atrophy and become accustomed to the easy life.  It did not take long to get back in shape but man oh man the aches and pains during the process.

The ladies were involved too.  Beverly and Sophie found themselves at the center of attention at the first break with the ladies.  When it was discovered both of them had given up the sticks and bricks for a life of full-timing in the RV, the ladies in the group peppered them with twenty thousand questions.  It seems they mostly wanted to know the mental process of being able to give up a fixed location and ‘material things’ to move into and enjoy a rather nomadic way of life.  Some of them even commented there was not any way they could fathom that as a possibility.  It seems there is a definite difference between how one gender views full-time RV living versus how the gentler gender feels about the lifestyle.

While the men were involved in painting, laying carpet, cutting and installing woodwork trim, taping and bedding, installing cement board, etc. the ladies were busy helping get things ready to sell in the gift shop.  They had small crafts to put together as well as some sewing.  Additionally there was a lot of packaging and pricing of a myriad of items for the gift shop.  There was plenty of work for everyone and the time just seemed to fly by.  Before we knew it the end of the session was here and it was time to say ‘see you down the road’ as we left.  They never say goodbye, only see you later.  The Camp Builder motto is: “come when you can, do what you can, stay as long as you can and we’ll see you down the road.”   These are my kind of folks!!!

We have enjoyed several rousing games of '42', Phase 10 and miscellaneous others during our recent sojourn. After spending some of our time watching several volleyball, basketball and baseball games the grandchildren were involved in and finishing the doctor appointments we have ‘officially’ hit the road again.  Stay tuned for the next installment on our adventures.

Branson Adventures

The weather in Branson has been super nice.  Like many areas of the country, the temperatures have been unseasonably warm.  That is until the weekend before Thanksgiving Day.  The first freeze of the season blew in and I mean literally blew in.  Wind gusts up to 45 MPH in the area stripped our little yellow tree of most of its leaves.  We even took the flag down because of the strong winds.  Now it really feels like Christmas, temperature wise.

Here's our little yellow tree; pre-leaf stripping winds

One of the shows we saw was ‘Moses’ at the Sound and Sight Theatre.  It was amazing in more ways than one.  First of all the story line is amazing because of God’s love and redemptive works for His people and I am not only talking about the children of Abraham but about all peoples.  Secondly the effects and live animals used during the performance brought the story to life right in front of our eyes.  We have seen numerous Broadway plays but this exceeded even the best of those.  Highly recommend a visit when you are in the area.  Watching the waters part is just one aspect of a spectacular production.

Outside Sound and Sight Theatre in front of Lamb and Lion Statue

We also made a trek to Silver Dollar City.  We love this place at Christmas time.  It really puts you into the spirit of the season.  We saw a live production of "A Christmas Carol" and ‘It’s A Wonderful Life” plus listened to some mighty fine Cajun music by Cedric Benoit and the Cajun Connection.  At the end of the day, we watched the Christmas parade wind its way through the park and finished the day with a cup of hot chocolate watching a performance of the giant Christmas tree flashing its lights to music.  You can see a piece of the performance in the clip below.  Yep, a mighty fine day I would say!

Tree Performance at Silver Dollar City: Make sure your computer speakers are on.


This cold weekend we met up with our close friends from Longview, Rick and Janet.  We spent the day together.  We set out to a place called ‘Top of The Rock.’  After eating a fine lunch and letting the sun warm the air a few more degrees, we rented golf carts to drive on the trail to view some very picturesque Ozark scenery.  It was a blast, fun and cold wise both at the same time.  Along the way we found some really beautiful waterfalls and spectacular views.  This is a must do too.

Pathway and waterfall inside a cave

Hang on Janet, Rick is about to do a wheelie!

Scenery outside the cave

..and more waterfall, they were beautiful and peaceful

Later at night we drove through the Trail of Lights at the Shepherd of the Hills location.  Then we took a ride up to the top of the Observation Tower to view the lights surrounding the area at the end of the drive.  Afterwards we headed to Branson Landing downtown to grab a quick bite to eat and watch the dancing water fountains with the choreographed water, lights and fire set to Christmas music to top off a wonderful day.  It was a day we spent catching up with each others’ lives and reminiscing about past trips and events we have shared.  A very nice, relaxing way to have fun and visit with our friends.

Dancing waters, lights, fire and music at Branson Landing

A trip to Branson is not complete unless you drive towards Springfield to visit Lambert’s Café, the home of ‘throwed rolls.’  You better plan on not eating before you go so you can hold more of their wonderful home cooked food.  When you order an entrée, they allow you to choose two sides then during the meal they come around with what they call ‘pass-arounds.’  These dishes are more vegetables such as fried okra, blackeyed peas, fried potato and onions, mac and tomatoes; all the time enjoying the fresh hot homemade rolls that constantly come through the dining area.  If you need a roll you just hold up your hand and they will ‘throw’ or ‘toss,’ depending upon how far away they are from you, a roll in your direction.  Your job is then to catch and eat that roll.  We had so much food that we ended up making five meals off the one purchase made that day.

This is just the meal, pass-arounds are coming!

Previously, I have never made it to Springfield to see the Granddaddy of Bass Pro Shops.  It is the very first one and located right in Springfield.  This is one of the ultimate guy toy stores to visit.  There are plenty of things for the ladies and kids too.  Don’t kid yourself if you think you can walk in and spend several hours perusing the merchandise and not find something you ‘need’.  You will definitely find it and purchase it.

Speaking of eating, we stopped at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner located right on 76 in Branson.  This is a unique place where the waiters and waitresses sing.  They have to try out before they are hired and then when hired they wait tables and take turns singing for the patrons.  The diner reminds one of the 50s style diners and the food is terrific.  This is another stop on a repeat visit to Branson as far as I am concerned.

Our next show was SIX.  This group is an acapella group made up of six brothers.  Actually there are ten total brothers and the explanation is that mom and dad wanted a daughter but never got one so they just kept on trying, hence ten sons.  In listening to them you would think there is a huge band accompanying them but it is only their voices.  One is almost exclusively doing drumming sounds but even he sings and has a beautiful voice.  They are very entertaining, funny and delightful to listen to their rendition of songs.

Thanksgiving Day is a special day to give thanks.  We, even though away from family, had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day experience at the campground.  About 17 years ago the owners of ABC started this tradition that has grown over the years of providing smoked turkey, dressing, gravy and mashed potatoes for those who attend.  Everyone else brings their favorite sides and desserts to share as a potluck at the dinner.  As you can see from the photos, there was a 24’ table of desserts and a 30’ table of food to choose from.  It was great fun to share a Thanksgiving meal with 150 plus other folks from various walks of life.

Bibi's contribution was corn and banana pudding.  The banana pudding recipe makes a lot of pudding and even if you cut it in half it is too much for the two of us.  So we thought this was a way to share and get a little pudding for ourselves.  So she made it and kept a little (very little) in a separate bowl for us in case there was not any left or we did not manage to get some at the feast.  To our surprise we had a little left (about the same amount as we had previously kept out) to take home.  That was the perfect amount for us to enjoy and not be inundated with an overwhelming amount to eat or throw out.  ...And as usual it was DELICIOUS!

The serving line is formed

Here are the food selections and lines

..and the all important desserts

Prior to the meal, the owners had everyone register for free show tickets.  During the meal, they would draw names and call out names with their site number to come pick up a free show tickets for 2 adults.  Each person that was called had to take the microphone and say one thing they were thankful for before choosing their show tickets.  As it ended up, everyone there received show tickets and shared what they are thankful for that day.

We met and sat with a couple that has been showing up for this event for 15 years.  They live in Texas just on the south side of Dallas around their children with a number of grandchildren and great grandchildren.  We had a very nice time visiting and sharing experiences with them during the meal and were fortunate to hook up with folks that knew the ropes and could tell us how things worked and what was going on.  The smoked turkey was definitely the hit of the meal and was some of the best we have ever eaten and the tryptophan from the turkey worked its magic and provided a nice nap afterwards.

We will post another update soon.  We must head back to Texas for some doctor appointments soon.  We will meet with family for ‘Thanksmas’ or as my son-in-law alternatively labeled it ‘Chrisgiving’ before heading out of state once again.  Until then be safe and here are a few more Silver Dollar City images to enjoy.

On the Road Again.....

We are on the road again!  After a few months of getting a house ready to put on the market, we have finally got it listed.  This frees us up to start adventuring again.  Our first stop is Branson, Missouri.  We have been here several times before but it was during our work life and we always hit the ground running trying to cram in as much as we could in the short 3 or 4 day stay on each trip.  Not this time.  We are spending the month of November and taking it slow and easy the whole time.

We had hoped to catch a glimpse of magnificent Fall’s seasonal color but it is not to be.  Evidently it has been too dry, too warm for so long or a combination of the two.  It appears the trees went from green to basic brown without any stops in between.  But that is okay, we have a beautiful little tree right beside us at our campground.  By itself it is supplying us with the most beautiful vibrant yellow display.

We love staying at America’s Best Campground.  It is family owned and close to all the action Branson provides.  There is a Thanksgiving meal planned at the campground.  The owners provide smoked turkey, dressing, gravy and potatoes with campground residents bringing additional dishes to share and add to the feast.  We are looking forward to the experience and will provide more information later.  

We also love Branson in November.  They have a wonderful Veteran’s week of parade and events as well as the shows are all Christmas themed during the month.  It is easy to get into Christmas season with all the beautiful lights, shows, songs and colder temperatures.  We even have a freeze warning for the area tonight.  

Our first show was Neal McCoy, our hometown guy, performing in Branson for a couple of days.  If you have not had the opportunity to see his live performance, you should find one to attend.  You will not be disappointed.  Also find him on Facebook.  He says the Pledge of Allegiance each and every morning.  Well worth your time to find him and participate with this super patriotic guy to say the pledge every day.

Ready for Veterans' Day now

Later in the week we attended the Veterans’ Day parade.  It was great and so heartwarming to see the love, affection, appreciation and warm greetings provided during this event.  Branson does a super job of hosting and supporting our veterans.  Having grown up during the Vietnam era, it is so great to see the Vietnam vets get the welcome home and appreciation they did not receive when they came back originally.  So many of them did not come back and even those who did return did not receive the proper respect due them.  It is supremely touching to see them getting that respect now.

Even the dogs are interested and attending today!

Here Come the Mustangs

...now the '57 Chevys

..and the Corvettes!

Here is a WWII Vet - that is a picture of him receiving a medal!

Finally a salute to those who did not return.

There were plenty of local bands, ROTC and others in the parade.  These pictures just give a flavor of the type of tribute and celebration.  We were standing by a family and in particular a cute little girl.  A lot of the parade participants were passing/throwing out candies for the little ones.  This little girl was a candy magnet.  By the time the parade was over with she had a WalMart sack completely full of candies.  She will be on a sugar high for weeks.  Until next time, stay safe.