Indiana: Looks very similar to Ohio but somehow seems a bit more wild and rugged. We pass a wildlife area that looks very much like a swamp. The highway is bordered by white wildflowers that I did not see in Ohio but behind the flowers are the all familiar rows of corn and beans. I have learned to recognize the sign that labels certain crops as GMOs.
So far my favorite thing to look for as far as scenery is the occasional grand farmstead. Just once I would like to see a billboard for a farmer’s market or a natural foods store instead of Steak N’ shake or IHOP.
Illinois: While driving here it was too dark to look at much scenery. We stopped here for the night…not too far from the Missouri line. We stayed in a suite at a local hotel with an indoor pool and free WiFi access. It also had a massive hot tub in the room, which the kids loved. Parker (6 months) got to swim for the first time and he loved it. I was amazed at how relaxed he was in the water…a true water baby like his surfing, water skiing, diving, fishing father. All three kids cried when they had to get out of the pool. :(
Missouri: After crossing over to Missouri we pretty much immediately ended up in St. Louis. This is one bustling city! We saw the arch!
Then we went on towards the Meramec Caverns, a Jesse James hideout and historic landmark. Oh, how I wish we could stop and explore there but we all have reasons why we need to get to Arizona by Sunday.
Missouri is one beautiful state. Its wilderness is still untamed, straight out of Tom Sawyer’s adventures. I really must make plans to come back.
