OK TX KS and NB Trip DAY1

Sandwich Time

Good morning, folks! It's that time again - sandwich-making time. This journey is going to span a full six days, with visits to two dear friends, one in Bartlesville, OK, and the other in Osborne.

I managed to hit the road earlier than my usual Thursday departure at 2:00 p.m. Today, I set out at 9:30 a.m., which allowed me to squeeze in more stops along the way.

Lake Ray Roberts

The first enchanting stop of the day brought me to the boat ramp at Lake Ray Roberts Marina. Here, I crossed paths with Phyllis, her magnificent horse Wilson, and her loyal German Shepherd mutt, Ruby. When I arrived, Ruby was joyfully splashing around in the chilly lake waters, having a blast. She came out to greet me and while I saw this coming…I could not get out of the way fast enough. YUP – she shook vigorously to get the water off her body and onto my clothes hahaha.

As I chatted with Phyllis, Wilson nuzzled his head against my chest, inviting some affection. What a friendly horse he was!

Phyllis possessed the warm and friendly voice reminiscent of Dolly Parton. Wish I recorded her – so you can also see what I am referring to. She is fortunate to live in an area where she could leisurely ride Wilson to the lake.

Phyllis, I can't help but envy your lifestyle. I'll definitely come visit again.

Phyllis also recommended a visit to Island Du Bois, so from here, I headed toward that destination.

Phyllis & Wilson

Bye Phyllis !!

Island Du Bois...

Alright, maybe I teased John a bit too much, but he took it in stride, and we had a nice, lengthy chat after the video recording. He was genuinely convinced that I was going to coerce him into cooking me lunch (you'll have to watch the video in the blog to get the full context).

Of course, I was just pulling his leg. I did offer him one of my famous sandwiches, but he was on his way out anyway.

It's a remarkably serene and peaceful spot, and I can understand why people come here to fish. It was so tranquil that even deer ventured quite close to the road. Take a look at the photos I snapped.

Sunset Point

Just an hour north, I reached Sunset Point, but unfortunately, my early start meant I arrived well before sunset. Nevertheless, I captured a few pictures, and it was yet another tranquil and stunning location. Considering it's only a short drive from Dallas, I'd say it's well worth the trip to witness the sunset over the lake.

Milburn Bridge Mystery

En route to the next point of interest, I stumbled upon a rugged path leading under a bridge. You know how much I love bridges, so I took Steele down that path. To my astonishment, I discovered a truck/RV wedged between the bridge and the ground, as if the bridge had collapsed on top of it. I can't fathom how that vehicle ended up there, and it appears to have been stuck there for quite some time. A true mystery!

I also couldn't help but notice the abundance of buzzing sounds—this bridge seems to be a haven for wasps and hornets. Have a look at the metroplex of apartments they have built !!

FIX - My friend Michael form Bartlesville said those were Swallow apartment complexes. The buzzing noise were from the swarm of flies and bugs that are the food source for the swallows. Thanks Mike ;)

Buffalo Springs in Sulphur

The road to our next destination, Buffalo Springs in Sulphur, led us down a rough dirt road that stretched for about eight miles. Along the way, we encountered a curious fox who paused to give me a curious gaze.

This dusty road reminded me of the highways in the Canadian Northwest Territories. For miles on end, all you could see was gravel and dirt, and you should've seen the cloud of dust trailing behind me.

Buffalo Springs is a real gem, featuring numerous waterfalls, one of which is called the "miniature Niagara Falls," although I'd say that's a slight exaggeration—it's quite petite. Nevertheless, if you're seeking a serene, cool spot with running water everywhere, this is the place for you.

Murray County Antique Tractor Show

Our final stop of the day brought me to the Murray County Antique Tractor Show, where I had the pleasure of meeting Gary Nickel, and his lovely dog, Gracie.

Despite the event being closed, Gary kindly gave me a tour and showed me the collection of vintage tractors. We also delved into some political discussion, focusing on the Middle East and Israel. Gary, a member of a farming family, had spent a decade farming before transitioning to a city job leading up to his retirement. However, he always maintained large plots of land and remained closely connected to the farming industry.

This antique tractor show was organized by a group of 120 farmers, some of whom traveled from as far as Mississippi to attend their bi-weekly meetings here.

I'd never seen a steam-powered tractor before, so it was quite a fascinating experience.

SURESTAY hotel at MACALESTER

With time still on my side, as it was only 5:00 p.m., I decided to put the pedal to the metal for another 90 minutes and secure a hotel close to tomorrow's first point of interest. That means tomorrow's journey will involve a bit less driving.

This hotel’s prices are ridiculously low (40-60 a night) and I read all the rooms have been remodeled June 2023 – AND THEY WERE.!!

What a great deal and super comfortable beds.

That’s all for today

Tomorrow – more adventures await.

ZIGZAGGY Day today