The Bells of Branson!

Remember the "extra" cold snap a few weeks ago? We were in Branson, Missouri.  It was just plain cold.  It was also the weekend of the handbell workshop at Faith Lutheran Church in Branson.  There were ringers from many area churches and the turnout was great. It was truly inspiring to see all ages and stages of skill together in one place.  The music was delightful - give a listen. We came in the building and thought one of the choirs must be playing. Quite good. Very precise. We looked over the rail to see everyone playing together in a mass choir - as one. It was amazing. 

I have been in a handbell choir for only one season, but it was so much fun and now I am drawn to bells whenever I hear the delightful sweet ring.

We had a great weekend with our friends at Faith.  On Sunday morning as guests raised their hands we counted about twenty - and that was a low count compared to "high season" in Branson.  What a great ministry to have - just being present and having a welcoming place to worship. Faith invites ringers to ring, a traveling preacher to teach and cheerful company for those visiting. I hope you will visit Faith when you are in Branson.

Missouri

Many years ago when we lived in Missouri, we did not see much of the state.  Our travels were primarily limited to work, school, and long drives home to see family in Wisconsin and Minnesota.  This trip through the state has been fun, in a terrifying, wild, freefall sort of way.  When you are traveling in a car on roads with no shoulders, it is not really such a big deal, but when hauling your house it is downright exciting! I am sharing photos of Castleview Campground to document what I mean by "way down the hill."  

Our campground while in the Branson, area. Beautiful. 

pretty sure it was the end of the road - it was not.

Our campsite at Stockton State Park, last week as the cold front came through, the Camp host left, and the water was turned off. We were the only ones in the park. It was great.

Visiting Lockwood, Missouri

Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Lockwood, Missouri- Thank you for your kind hospitality! If you find yourself in Lockwood, stop in for a visit!

The cars in Lockwood...are ALIVE! Well, maybe just a few of them. 

... and some of the utility vehicles.  Fun place.

And when driving the curvy roads it is good to know that Wreck-O-Mended is just down the road. :)

Set up

Load out. It does not look like much, but everything must be packed into the back seat of the truck - just so...I don't want to know and therefore cannot help.