The Traveling Dowells, Episode 5

We headed south for a week in Branson, MO with Darrin's family. To sum up Branson in one word, I'd say hot. And perhaps sparkly. I think everything glitters in Branson...including my "glistening", sweaty skin. It was about 95 degrees and uber-humid every day. We stayed cool in the pool and enjoyed nap time escapes in the condo during the heat of the day.


Of course we had our typical picnic on the way down. And somehow missed a turn -- so we ended up all the way in Joplin on our way there. It sparked a few memories of our visits to Dave and Missy when they were living in JoMo.


We enjoyed some yummy dinners out. Especially the Mexican place at Branson Landing and a German food/pizza place (what a combo, huh?) with great views of Table Rock Lake.




We fed lots of fish. And a turtle. And ducks.



Madeline helped navigate us through Wilson's Creek National Battlefield. And we stamped our Nat'l Parks Passports. Duh.



We tried mini-golfing. Madeline was very helpful. After about one stroke per person, she'd walk over to the balls, pick them up, and put them in the hole. She even got a hole-in-one (on an actual hit...not just a drop-in). Papa had TWO holes-in-one!


We quacked on the Duck Boats. Although the guide must have been too loud for her taste. Madeline sat the whole time with her fingers in her ears. But she absolutely beamed when we accelerated into the water and were suddenly on a "boat" instead of a car.



Fun was had by all!