Days 2 and 3: Glad our car is comfy!

Day 2 by the numbers:

• 415 miles traveled
• Highest elevation: 1537 feet
• 4 states (Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri)
• Elvis sightings:  0 (sadly)

This morning, we left Tupelo early and headed for Memphis.  We were determined to get our hands on some authentic Memphis BBQ ribs.  Mission accomplished.  We lunched at Blues City Cafe and strolled down Beale Street and did a little shopping.

There was no shortage of Elvis souvenirs!  We settled for some local BBQ sauce instead.

After crossing the mighty Mississippi, we drove through Arkansas and were surprised to find ourselves driving through miles and miles of rice fields.  (Who knew?)  The flat land quickly turned mountainous, which we suspected would happen after turning onto Skyline Drive.  It certainly lived up to its name.  Let's just say that these Florida girls are a little rusty when it comes to driving on mountain roads.  The highlights, however, were the Arkansas Natural Bridge and a lovely unmarked scenic overlook.

After leaving Skyline Drive, we weren't far from Branson -- our destination for Day 2.  It sure has changed since we were here in the 1980s.  No time for shows....On to Day 3!

Day 3 by the numbers:

• 628 miles traveled
• Highest Elevation:  3600 feet
• 3 states (Missouri, Kansas, Colorado)
• Tiny, middle of nowhere, not on the map Kansas towns:  Lots
• Cows, corn, hay bales:  see above
• Llamas:  4

Today, we drove.  A lot.  We left Branson, took a left in Springfield, and drove across Kansas.  Literally.  But, we're in Colorado!!  Among the things we saw today for the first time were wind farms, huge swallow nest communities (under the overpasses -- it was awesome), fields as far as we could see in both directions, and interesting/creative/angry/frightening middle of nowhere yard art (the picture really doesn't do it justice).  Colorado greeted us with an amazing display of lightning, fog, and wind, but we made it to our hotel in one piece (and dry!). 

We had a really nice day, and we're looking forward to snoozing in our super squishy Holiday Inn Express beds.  Good night!