Sunday Drive

This weekend we attended the wedding of some friends. Hubby went to college with the groom and was a groomsman, which meant I got to see him all dressed up and more handsome than usual, if that's possible. Wink, wink.

The wedding was a state away.. only a 3 hour drive or so, but boy was the ride fun! Our destination was nestled in the Ozark Mountains and it took me right back to childhood and all of our trips to Grandma and Grandpa's house on Table Rock Lake.

The three of us kids would pile into the back seat, making sure not to "cross the line" into someone else's personal space. Sitting in the middle was typically for losers and the unlucky, but as soon as we reached the Ozarks, it was the coveted spot.

Those curves and dips were better than a roller coaster and Dad knew just how to speed up at the right times. I was the only kid who never got car or motion sick, so this was perfect. I just loved looking out at all the gorgeous green trees and lush, covered hills.. I remember letting my eyes glaze over sometimes while staring out the window and seeing all the colors melt together, then switching to try and really focus in on the tree trunks and details, just sure I would see a deer or some wild cat hiding back there.

It was especially beautiful if it happened to be fall while we were traveling and all of the leaves were turning or already deep red and orange. If there was one thing I could change about where we live now, it would be that spring and fall lasted just a little longer.. especially fall. It's definitely my favorite season.

I loved snuggling down into my seat, leaning against the window and reading for hours. When I wasn't reading I was staring out the window, daydreaming. Some of my first memories of really just letting my mind wander and daydream were here.

I loved it.


After a few misturns and lots of gorgeous scenery, we made it to the hotel. It was an old, reportedly haunted place that I found a bit more on the creepy side than charming. Particularly the strange old lady with the black wig, who cornered us in the lobby and wanted to have a full out conversation about the owners of the hotel and their dead cat. She also made an unforgettable appearance during the couple's first dance, but I won't get into that right now..

The hotel sat very high up and did have some beautiful views.

It rained the whole day, but they didn't let that ruin their wedding. Luckily the bride is pretty easy-going and the planned outdoor ceremony was moved inside. It was small and quick and perfect. Just like our little trip.

(I cropped the creepy lady out of this pic!)