Friends + Kansas City+Branson = FUN (1)

For a long time, we've wanted to introduce our Colorado friends, Carey and Nancy, to our Oregon friends, Larry and Elaine. We just KNEW they would enjoy each other so Rich planned a weekend trip for all of us in Kansas City. Carey & Nancy drove in and Larry & Elaine flew into Wichita and then we drove up to KC.

On Friday we spent almost all day at the Truman Presidential Library in Independence, MO. Rich and I had visited it in 1975 and WOW! has it ever expanded. We spent the morning there, went to lunch and then returned for the afternoon. So much to see. We all gained considerable admiration for President Truman. Two of the things we learned - he was the first to integrate the military and he was instrumental in getting the women the right to vote. There was also an excellent exhibit on the Korean War.

Rich. Me. Carey. Nancy. Elaine. Larry.


We had lunch at the historic Courthouse Exchange Building, across from the courthouse.


Independence, MO Courthouse. I love these old courthouse buildings!


We've all heard Truman's famous line, "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen." I love wearing an apron when I cook. This is the newest addition to my collection.


Presidential libraries are really wonderful. We've seen Truman's (twice now), Eisenhower's (several times), Reagan's (many times, since it was in our "backyard" in CA), LBJ's (huge - no surprise! - and it is very sobering to realize what a turbulent time the 60's were - guess we were too young in our married life to realize it!), FDR's, Hoover's, and Coolidge's home (where he took oath of office) and library. As expected, all present the man in the very best light, but there is much to learn and gain a new or renewed appreciation of. Would love to see the rest -think there are 12. I think they are a "must-see".

Truman family home.


Three men and a GPS - getting directions to Jack Stack's BBQ in Country Club Plaza.




We all agreed Jack Stack's was the best BBQ! Truly yummy and we dug in before any photos could be taken!

We had such a fun day - more to come.