I don't think anyone would be surprised to learn that I love to travel (probably more than I love knitting, but since they're not mutually exclusive, life is good. Plus, since I can take knitting with me on my trips, it's even more satisfying.) I love seeing new places, returning to old favorites - sometimes so many times that it almost feels like a second home (can anyone say Alaska?) - and everything that goes with it: the planning, the research, the packing, and the great photography possibilities along the way, not to mention the opportunity to just slow down, get away from the everyday routine, and enjoy the moment.
No, I don't have an immediate big trip planned, but you know what? Travel doesn't have to be big to be satisfying. Robert and I took a day trip yesterday to Ha Ha Tonka, a Missouri State Park about 90 minutes from Springfield. It was an absolutely perfectly gorgeous fall day - and with temps in the 60's, who can believe it's November? We missed the peak fall foliage, but it was still beautiful to hike around, and picnic. What's cool about Ha Ha Tonka is that one of main trails leads to some castle ruins. Yes, you read that right. A castle. In Missouri of all places. Just another reason I love to call it home.
On the drive up to the park, which is near Osage Beach, MO, of course I was knitting in the car. I've only got the thumbs left on the first pair of three Christmas Fetching. We also stopped at the Yarn Basket. Kate really liked this store when she stopped, but I wasn't that impressed. It's probably worth a stop if you're in the area, though.
All in all, yesterday was one of those picture-perfect days.
Comments (3)
Gorgeous shots. I love traveling too. We can't wait to start traveling around the state this spring/summer.
Posted by Trish | November 4, 2007 10:47 AM
What a neat location! I'm putting it on our list of local places to see.
I love the castle ruins! There's a castle nestled in the mountains of Lake Tahoe and the walk down to it isn't bad but it's the 1 mile hike back up a steep grade that kills me every time! If you ever go to Tahoe I'd recommend going to see Vikingsholm Castle. It is worth the hike!
Posted by Brianne | November 5, 2007 7:26 AM
How interesting - I had no idea that castle was there! One of the things I'm looking forward to with my new job is a little more time of the weekends for fun day trips like that.
Posted by Zarah | November 5, 2007 10:13 AM