The theme of the day was driving. Like Forest Gump when he started to run, he just kept on runnin’…we drove and just kept on drivin’! From Alabama, we made our way into Mississippi, back into Tennessee briefly, and landed in Arkansas. We are definitely off-grid and we are finally camping without cell service or internet. It’s strange and complicating for blogging purposes, but it’s been a nice reset.
Mississippi was very similar to Alabama by way of scenery and roadways. When we were in Alabama, we discussed cornbread and chicken but ultimately chose ribs instead, so today when we were passing through Mississippi, we knew we wanted to try out some southern chicken if the opportunity arose. Tyler did a quick Google search and found Gus’s Fried Chicken and since it advertised being “world famous” we knew that was the one. Clearly, we are easily swayed.
Gus’s lived up to the title and the fried chicken was the best I’ve ever had. I honestly don’t know if I would be able to choose between Tudors or Gus’s for which was the best eatery we’ve tried, but I can say Oregon (or the West coast for that matter) is missing out on some delightful food establishments.
We were indecisive on where we wanted to be at the end of our travels today but knew we wanted to get as close as possible to Branson, MO. Once we crossed into Arkansas, Tyler started looking for a nice campsite for the night. He was quite quick to find Dam-Quarry Campsite in Mountain Home, AR somewhere in the Ozarks. The campsite is very nice and sits just at the base of a huge damn. It is well maintained and offers water and electric for only $20/night. We are always thrilled when we can find these little gems.
Arkansas has been an experience and I am not certain either of us has enjoyed what the state has to offer. It’s funny because when we were in Nebraska, our Harvest Host told us not to go to Kansas because it had nothing. Then when we were in Alabama the Harvest Host told us not to go to Arkansas, it was terrible. Part of the joy in this experience is traveling through each of these states and developing our own opinions of them. Thus far, the Alabama Harvest Host may be right!
In addition to traveling more miles today than we have in a while (450!), the miles were slow. The roadways didn’t allow us to travel at very quick speeds and each mile passed by at a snail’s pace. When we finally made it to our campsite we were all beyond ready to be out of the car. We decided to take on Tyler and Ashton in Sequence and while they have put up a very good fight, we came out winning tonight. Our new record is 17-12!
We utilized the campground showers and prepped the trailer to get up and leave EARLY tomorrow. Tyler FINALLY shaved his beard after 27 days of being on the road. He looks like a whole new man, but it was no easy task. I picked up a razor for him while out and about yesterday and tonight he went through 3 blades just to accomplish a clean shave. It was WORTH IT! Plus, he did it in the campground’s restroom so I don’t have to deal with the mess…win, win!
Without internet or cell service, Tyler is unable to perform his job duties so we will be making quick work at getting to civilization before he is due to log in! The two hour time difference helps. We have made reservations at a local water park in Branson, MO and the kids are beyond thrilled to get out and experience an activity outside of driving!
Though we will be heading to Missouri tomorrow, we will likely be back in Arkansas by Friday. I am looking forward to seeing other areas of the state and will report my findings!
The Church Hideout 