Titanic!

Since we're staying put for 5 nights here, we slept in for the first time in a long while...what a luxury.  Got in touch with Terry and Elaine and made plans to meet them around 4:00, and then took off for "The Strip" in Branson.  We took a right turn on 75 and POW right in front of our eyes was the prow of theTitanic!  We steered into the parking lot and queued up for our tickets.  We were each given a Boarding Pass with the name of one of one of the real-life passengers.  I was lovely 22 year old actress, Dorothy Gibson and Ted was John Jacob Astor.  For 2 hours he was the richest man in the ship and he loved every minute of it!

The museum was amazing.  Fabulous stories, delicate artifacts and re-created displays made it come to life.  Highlights for me were the gallery of photographs taken by Father Brown while aboard the ship; the Bridge where we could place our hands of the Ship's wheel and "steer" her across the star covered waters up ahead; walking out on the promenade in the cold (refrigerated) night air to see the view the starry sky and the floating ice; and, of course, watching Ted enjoy it so much, as his father worked for the Cunard White Star Line in Southhampton, where the Titanic set sail from. 

The grand finale was when each of us was allowed to pick one velvety red rose petal (freeze dried but oh so fragrant) out of a bin and place it in another larger container.  That large collection of rose petals will be scattered over the sea where She sunk next year on the 100th anniversary of the disaster.  Very touching indeed! Alas, no photography was allowed so it will all remain a mystery until you, too, come and visit.

After a hasty, late lunch at Baldknobbers (don't ask) we drove to Scaggs Memorial Hospital and visited Elaine, my sister-in-law who is recovering from surgery and my brother, Terry, who just happens to work there.  Was so very good to see them both!  I enjoyed our chat and laughs...which were many...and made plans for our next day or so.

Back at Table Rock Lake State Park, we sat under the stars overlooking the marina, listening to the hum of insects, croaking of frogs and calls of the night birds.  Ted lit a fire and we had a cup of cocoa, roasted marshmallows and he played some tunes on the harmonica including Shenandoah, Dixie and Amazing Grace.  Peaceful end to an enjoyable day.  Blessings to you all.

Love,

Mom/Peggy