We are very purposely practicing a more relaxed and stress-reduced lifestyle these days after 40+ years of hitting the ground running almost every morning! I say this to explain that our timing on getting to the Monastery was not as perfect as we would have preferred.  Hence, that activity has gone back on the
list for next year.

Our first detour that afternoon was the Dollar Tree in Neosho. There is always something you “must have” from a Dollar Tree – especially if you are driving close-by to one.  It may be gift bags, tissue paper, cheap wine glasses, stickers for the grandchildren, or crackers – there’s always something.  We had a good time in Neosho’s Dollar Tree choosing our “must haves.”  I guess that speaks to just how easily we are entertained!

Our second detour of the afternoon was absolutely, unexpectantly delightful!

We include the George Washington Carver National Monument at Diamond, Missouri, as a daytrip suggestion in our “Welcome Home to Bella Vista” presentation – but we had not yet been there.  What we learned about this great man at the Carver Discovery Center was truly impressive and inspiring.
There was so much more about Carver’s life to know than his work with peanuts.  He was absolute genius, without a doubt.  His accomplishments are
awe-inspiring.  But what gave us the most joy was feeling a sense of George Washington Carver’s spirit that was evident in his writing and stated philosophies.

Unfortunately we arrived at 4:30PM and the Center closed at 5PM.  We soaked in as much as we could but…the George Washington Carver National Monument goes back on our list.  We glimpsed inspiration in the study of the life of this historic, humble gentleman who served mankind in so many different ways, which could result in all of us living with more purpose.

“How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and the strong.  Because someday in life you will have been all of these.”     George Washington Carver

Put George Washington National Monument on your “to do” list! I guarantee you will not be disappointed!

Digging up Diamonds!

 Debbie