Reminds Me of a John Denver Song ~

We got home late last evening from our whirlwind trip.  I must say it was wonderful to sleep in my own bed last night!  It's good to get away and even better to get "Back Home Again".

Meramec Caverns was not on our agenda, but upon seeing billboards on our way to Branson, MO, decided to swing on over to check them out.  We are so glad we did.

The Caverns are privately owned.  Upon entering, there was a huge room that was set up with tables covered in white linen tablecloths and fine china.  There was a wedding reception that evening for the owner's grandchild.  How cool is that?  Well, actually quite cool.  It is a constant 60* inside.  I doubt there were too many backless dresses or open toed shoes.  BBBBRRRRRRR!

To get to the "wine room" you had to climb a steep staircase and our guide said many people "whine" about the climb.

Pictures just don't do the formations justice!  The room is aptly named because of the grapelike formations

Beautiful reflections.

For us Catholics, this formation looks like the Blessed Virgin Mary.

At the end of the tour there is a light show dedicated to those who have served or are currently serving in our armed forces or as police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians.  To these men and women, they extend their gratitude and remembrance for their brave sacrifices.  It is set to the singing of God Bless America, and let me tell you, it brought me to tears.

Have you heard of Buc-ee's?  Until my son told me about it a year or so ago, I had not.  Well . . . after leaving the caverns, we started seeing many Buc-ee's billboards, so we had to stop.  To say we were totally gobsmacked is an understatement.  This place is HUGE!!!  128 gas pumps (and 18 wheelers are NOT allowed), and a store that sold everything but the kitchen sink.  And the food?  Unbelievably good.  

Thanks so much for stopping by.
Pug hugs 😊
Lauren