Meet the Author & Family

Well, if you found your way here then you are curious about our family. Let me introduce myself. I am a mother of 5 (and many more around the U.S. call me mom as I tend to inherit all the campground kids) and I was born in Feb of '81 (you do the math). I have a double bachelor degree in Psychology and Corrections and I have been working on my Masters in Counseling. I am a very outdoors person and love to hike, bike, and swim.

Me at Dewey Bald Trail  

My husband was born Oct of '80 and has worked building trailers and irrigation as well as running his own automotive shop for years as a skilled mechanic. He likes to play video games on his down time as well as fish.

My husband and I on Old Natchez Trace

In May of 2015, we made a huge life change, sold everything we owned and moved into a 31 ft travel trailer (as seen below) traveling North America with intentions of hitting all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico. I took a break from college to focus on family and my children's education, and my husband obtained his CDL and currently drives a semi over the road (as seen below).

Our home!

My husband graduating truck driving school.

On to the kiddos. My oldest daughter is grown (born in Nov '97) and isn't traveling with us at this time. I have 3 boys born in May '01, Sept '04, and May '07 and a girl born in Oct '05. 

The four kids with Brother Brother

We have made lots of friends along the way and the kids have learned so much already on our travels. We are always wanting to meet new people and try new things so if you see us around, feel free to shout out! We love to cook out with others!

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Dewey Bald Trail and Observation Tower at Ruth & Paul Henning Conservation Area

Looking for a short hike away from the hustle and bustle of Branson's theatre district? Look no more... and hop on down to Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area. This area is less than a mile and a half from 76 and Shepherd of the Hill junction and offers 5 hiking trails which range from .3 to 3.4 miles in length.

Dewey Bald Observation Tower

If you are afraid of heights you may want to pass on this climb!!! But if you do brave it, don't look down! It is worth the adrenaline rush!!!

View from Dewey Bald Observation Tower

The hike is moderate and paved to this tower and the view is spectacular!!! There are benches along the way in case you get winded. You don't want to miss it!

Wide view from Dewey Bald Observation Tower

Rock and Roll Revival in Branson

While Branson is the country music capitol, you can also find a show with the best of rock 'n roll. Rock and Roll Revival will be sure to get you dancing in your seat, clapping, singing along, and maybe even a chance to dance on stage!

  

   

This talented group will rock your favorites from Eric Clapton, Lionel Richie, Jerry Lewis, Jimi Hendrix, and Bob Seger just to name a few. Be sure to put your dancing shoes on and stop by for a great time at this energetic show the next time you are in Branson!

Magic & Comedy of Taylor Reed

Branson is full of theatres with talented entertainers ready to put on a show. With Branson named as the country music capitol, you can imagine that country music is a big theme. But there is much more to Branson than just country music! Magic and Comedy of Taylor Reed is sure to excite and awe anyone and everyone who finds their way to the Jim Stafford Theatre. From sawing a member of the audience in half...... 

to having an assistant crawl through Taylor....

Or even shrinking another assistant....

it is sure to be a good time and even a few laughs! And, if you have little ones, they get to become part of the show! (Oh and did I mention... kids get in free?!) So make sure to head down to Jim Stafford Theatre next time you are in Branson! 

Table Rock Lake in Branson, MO

Table Rock Lake is beautiful even on a dreary day like the day we visited last. These pictures are views of the lake taken from Dewey Short Visitor Center. 

Table Rock Lake has many recreational areas including Table Rock State Park, Moonshine Beach, and Indian Point Public Use Area. The water is clear and perfect for swimming, fishing, or boating. Check out Table Rock Lake and you won't be disappointed. 

The Fudgery at Branson Landing

If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth while you are in Branson, look no more. The Fudgery at Branson Landing has something for everyone. Fudge, ice cream, and candied apples are just a few of the desserts offered. If you are lucky you may even get to enjoy watching it be made! Jessica was an excellent host and even a little witty! We sure enjoyed her jokes while she made some fantastic Cookies and Cream Fudge right before our very eyes, and the free samples were a great treat! So next time you are in Branson, make sure to head down to the landing and indulge!

Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery near Branson, MO

Branson is a beautiful place to visit and while everyone knows about the shows that line old highway 76, not everyone is aware of some of the less costly things to do away from the hustle and bustle. Table Rock and Taneycomo Lakes are icons of Branson, and near the dam is a hidden gem: Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery. 

This is where the lives of millions of Trout begin before they are released into the well known Taneycomo.... where many come from afar to wet a fly and fish their famous waters. Here you can see fish breeding in action and learn about the importance of each step during development. 

The hatchery also has a few other creatures available for viewing such as several species of snake that call Missouri their home. 

While the hatchery visit is entirely free, make sure to bring some quarters so you can toss a handful of fish food into the water and watch the Trout swarm to the surface. This afternoon outing will be sure to delight the young and old alike.

https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/shepherd-hills-fish-hatchery