My last post left off in Asheville, NC while we were homeward bound on Sunday. Knowing that we were going west and would get to see our grandson who was in Springfield really propelled us on Monday. We made a stop at the Smoky Mtn. Knife Shop for Burl to tour the knife museum (seriously? definitely not my schtick!) so I wandered into the kitchen collection and scored a couple of ceramic blade kitchen knives which made Ralph ecstatic – apparently she finds my kitchen much too un-gourmet for her tastes when she cooks here!
We had a picnic at a roadside park and pretty much used up our provisions except for some beer and water and except for pit stops we were constantly on the bike. Burl had mentioned stopping in Paducah, KY but we breezed right past it and across the river and were back in Missouri. Finally as we hit Sikeston I called a halt – 550 miles was plenty for the day and besides, I had just finished a good book (“North River” by Pete Hamill) and all my reading materials were in the trailer.
The good news was that after an incredibly long day on Monday, Tuesday was a breeze and we pulled into our driveway before noon only to be met by the world’s smartest and most beautiful dog (Mulligan asked that I write that) who was so excited to see us.
Much as I loved seeing his smiling face and wagging tail, the real reason we were excited to be back was to see our darling grandson, Devin, and his mom, Annie. 
They had arrived in town last Wednesday after we were on the road so seeing them was the best bonus to coming home early.
Annie always says the real reason she returns is to eat – and as a native Springfieldian, she has her favorite places. There’s Shanghai Inn 0n North Glenstone (which her parents owned years ago), Peking House on East Sunshine (now owned by her relatives), Mexican Villa, Steak and Shake and Andy’s Frozen Custard.
Since she hadn’t yet been to Mexican Villa, we made the ultimate sacrifice and met them there along with Tammy and Steve on Tuesday evening. Even though the chips and sanchos enchilada style filled us to the brim, we had to end the evening with a visit to Andy’s.
Devin displays his chocolate goatee
We had introduced Devin to that tasty treat last summer and he quickly got into a chocolate trance while he sat on the sidewalk at Andy’s and entertained everyone within sight.
Yesterday we were thrilled when Annie called and said he had requested time in our pool and to play with “Muggin”. He’s like a little fish now and we had such fun just hanging out and enjoying him swimming around the steps and helping Mulligan retrieve his Kong which was constantly going into the water. Annie reported that all the activity was sufficient to wear him out so he slept the entire flight to Phoenix.
My friends who blog may understand the dilemma I’ve had this week – I’ve wanted to blog but I couldn’t find a catchy title for a post. When I walk, I usually compose in my head but I sometimes hit a block when I can’t find a title – such has been my problem for the last few days. Finally decided to just ‘fess up and put something boring but honest in the “title” slot.
So for my few loyal readers who have asked for an update today, here you go. Now I’m off to grab a paperback beach read and lounge in the pool.
Glad you made it home safe and sound.
Your could have titled it, “There’s No Place Like Home.” I understand the dilemma as it’s something I face every now and again. No matter, at least you blogged!