Friday, October 15, 2010

Back in Arkansas

It's a very short trip from Branson down to Arkansas. We are enjoying seeing the familiar scenery in the Ozarks. The trees have just begun donning their fall colors, the days are still warm with a hint of cool in the shade, and the nights are getting chilly - we're looking forward to witnessing the full brunt of autumn in Arkansas. As always, we had to stop at Neighbors Mill in Harrison for breakfast, but mostly to load up on the best cookies in the world, their White Chocolate Macadamia Nut (with oatmeal). Our stop in the Mountain Home area was to initiate our search to find a home to rent while we begin the process of building a home. While here, we treated ourselves to a stay at PJs Lodge on the White River (pjslodge.com). We had enjoyed their fine dining on previous occasions, but had never stayed there as part of their B&B package - but are glad we treated ourselves to a night at the lodge. We would highly recommend a visit to PJs - their fine dining in an incredible atmosphere is worth the drive (you had better call ahead for reservations as they book early). And now we know their rooms are very nice, with plenty of nice little touches and great beds! Les and Julie Stevens are fantastic hosts and make any visit very special. As many of you know, our current house plans incorporate a contemporary version of the Ozark vernacular "dogtrot". We have included a picture of the Wolf House in Norfork, AR to give you an idea of the original design from back in the day. On our departure, we had to also make our obligatory stop at KTs BBQ in Gassville to get a family pack to carry to Ben and Myka's for dinner - consistently excellent BBQ! White River Valley Estates; our future neighborhood Wolf House in Norfork, AR. Dogtrot in the center of the house. Room #7 at PJs Lodge B&B View of PJs from the river