Thursday - September 23

 Mark and I were leaving our hotel room at 7:30 AM, loading up the car and leaving Branson in the fog.    But that didn't last long and rest of the way was sunny and bright.    We shared the driving (he listening to his country tunes and me and my oldies).    The #1 song from the 60's (by popular demand from listeners is "Unchained Melody" by the Righteous Brothers which is Mark's and my song!!!!)     Awe.....

We had a nice break 1/2 way into the trip meeting Mark's brother, Jim and Lydia for lunch in Kirkwood.    They've often mentioned Kaldi's Coffee as a favorite and that's where we met - excellent food/coffee with Mark having lunch and rest of us, enjoying breakfast + coffees for all.    We sat in the wonderful warm sunshine (they have a very large patio for outdoor seating and so fun to catch up.)    But much too soon, it was time to say good bye as we were on a mission to get back to KK, unpack, repack (me) and off to Anne's for dinner.

Jim, Lydia, Pat and Mark (the guys love their Tilley's)

Anne fixed delicious meatloaf, baked potatoes, corn, rolls and apple/cherry pie a la mode!    WOW....all tasted so good - can't beat comfort food especially when there's a little nip in the air.

Anne and Grandma are dwarfed by these growing boys!

We are tired nomads tonight but it was a good day and always nice to be "home".    Nighty night!