Trying not to be in Misery, in Missouri

I spent an extra day at the Land Between the Lakes, alone, right next to a lake where I did some reading and a sketch from the shore. I still have my sore throat and feel somewhat run down, so just enjoying the outdoors without an agenda was a nice thing to do. I stopped at a different beach, one that was referred to me for fossils, but a park ranger came along and told me that the beach is now closed for the season, so I had to leave. Bummer. On my way to Paducah, Kentucky, I briefly walked the Main Street, and the river area which hosted beautiful murals. An artist was restoring- retouching them. I made it to the National Quilt Museum. It showcased breathtaking examples of quilts from all over the country, including traditional, contemporary, and cutting-edge works of art combining acrylic paints and repurposed recycled fabrics. Using quilting techniques of trapunto, patchwork, and embroidery stitching, each piece was unique. They had a beautiful full color book of the show for only $20, so I hope to refer to it when I have more time to review the pieces. Stunning!

Using a variety of apps I located a boondocking site within the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri. Crossing the highway, I took two bridges over the Mississippi, and Ohio River, and quickly transitioned from Kentucky to Illinois, to Missouri, all within a few moments. I think it was certainly the quickest I've ever passed through three different states...almost at the same time! I drove through some very remote and winding,  scenic roads, and finally approached my boondocking site. My heart sank, and emotions raced, as it led me to a site that was obviously neglected, and in overgrown disarray. It was supposed to be at the edge of a lake. It wasn't. The road faded, and was covered in trees and branches. I was very lucky that I had an area where I could turn around to head out, in one piece. So, now, naturally, I don't have cell service. Needless to say I drove another hour and a half, and wound up at the ubiquitous Walmart in Thayer, MO. But I only made it to 1 a.m., because a nearby semi, was running his generator, and it prevented me from sleeping well. Combine that with my sore throat and now ear ache issues, it was a crappy night's sleep. Whew, what a....long.....and event filled day.

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