If you've been reading Back Porch Musings any amount of time, you know how J and I feel about our beautiful state of Missouri.I recently heard an interview with Karen Glines about a new book, featuring paintings, done en Plein Air, by Missouri artist, Billyo O'Donnell. Glines provided text, which includes historical information about each of Missouri's 114 counties. O'Donnell, over a period of several years, created paintings showing particular aspects of each county.
I was thrilled to receive my copy of Painting Missouri, last week. It's a beautiful book. We recognize many familiar places between the pages. The paintings are absolutely incredible.
Sometime ago I heard someone say Missouri is flat with prairies and that's about it. I invite those who believe that to come explore Missouri, from top to bottom. Not only are there beautiful prairies, the state includes gently rolling farmland, riverways and lakes, the foothills of the amazing Ozark Mountains and state parks that are out of this world. Missouri state parks are free to the public. While there are camping fees, there are no admission fees. Saint Louis and Kansas City are wonderful cities with lots to see and do. Smaller cities like Springfield also offer so much. Plus the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Missouri, rich in history and beautiful scenery in any season is a feast for all the senses.
My advice; take the road less traveled. Detour from the Interstate and explore Missouri. I guarantee you will find much to enjoy.
I recommend, in the meantime, you have a look at Painting Missouri in your local library, online, or in bookstores.
Recently J had to have a MRI of his neck. The neurologist, who at first thought J had a disease of the muscles, has concluded it is a pinched nerve. J will begin physical therapy the first week of November. On the way home we stopped at Lake Saint Louis and a couple of other places for photo opportunities.
This photo and the two above were taken at Lake Saint Louis. The road that runs beside the lake here, is named for J's family who farmed in this area. Another branch of the family farmed at the other end of the road. J's cousin and his family still reside on the remainder of the old farm, which has been in the family for at least 100 years.
Other photos were taken at a farm, along our drive home.
A barn located along Highway 61, north of Wentzville Missouri.
Some of you might recognize the gate and the building in the background of the photo below. We'll be celebrating a special date at this beautiful and peaceful place, soon.
~A Note~
This photo and the two above were taken at Lake Saint Louis. The road that runs beside the lake here, is named for J's family who farmed in this area. Another branch of the family farmed at the other end of the road. J's cousin and his family still reside on the remainder of the old farm, which has been in the family for at least 100 years.
Other photos were taken at a farm, along our drive home.
A barn located along Highway 61, north of Wentzville Missouri.*****************************************
~Upcoming Events and Posts~
This photo is a hint of a post to come. Recently J and I were at All About Home, helping prepare the shop for the Holidays. I put together the display, shown in the photo. Next month I'll post more about the preparations.
Some of you might recognize the gate and the building in the background of the photo below. We'll be celebrating a special date at this beautiful and peaceful place, soon.
~A Note~The pumpkin plates, in the tablescape post, are from All About Home. They are a set of four, showing how to carve a pumpkin. The raven is from the same shop. The candelabra is from Mary Carol Garrity's shop, Nell Hill's, in Atchison KS.
The transferware plates are Spode. I purchased them at Marshall's.