Not Just Another Fly-Over State

Kansas...the state that connects East to West, North to South and if you ask me, should not be overlooked by the overlookers.  I have lived in this state my entire life, living in 7 different cities or towns and experiencing places some of you probably don't even know exist.  I grew up on a gravel road and my home was surrounded by cornfields, railroad tracks, fireflies, and nighttime silence. 

This post is for those who may want to venture out of the city to a small town where you may be labeled as the outsider or for those who may want to venture out of the country into the city where you become someone who "looks like you are from the country"...I have played both roles so I know all about that.  But guess what, no matter where I go the people are friendly, I can usually find a really good place to eat...necessity, and when I leave to go home, I have usually learned something new and have meet some really awesome people. 

Besides that, even though Kansas isn't surrounded by the ocean or the mountains, it is a beautiful place...I'll show you.

A little bit of country...because gravel roads lead to home.

 photo courtesy of @heather.rolf

 photo courtesy of @heather.rolf

harvested by my Dad

Lakes...because they are smooth like seas.

 Toronto Lake...photo courtesy of @heather.rolf 

 Clinton Lake

Perry Lake

Melvern Lake

Diners...because I mentioned I love to eat.

 Ladybird Diner, Lawrence KS...just overall amazing.

 Hookers N Reelers, Lake Perry...ask for extra bacon.

 The City Diner, River Market...great breakfast!

 The Pizza Parlor in LeRoy KS...homemade pies and pizza...need I say more?

Perry Bar and Grill, Perry KS...hamburger and fries please!

Trains...because they connect us.

photo courtesy of @heather.rolf

Flinthills and Wind Farms...because open highways and views for miles.

Last but not least, the city KCK-KCMO because we are one...with unexpected beauty.

For The Love Of Kansas

Shona

Pendleton's Country Market

Recently I was taken to Pendleton's Country Market for a little weekend adventure. This lovely little farm is just outside of Lawrence, Kansas, and is full country charm.  Fresh flowers and produce all grown on the farm makes this a top pick for me.  Just over the tracks, you can wander through fields of asparagus waiting to picked; take the short walk to get there or hop on the tractor and take a ride to hear the history of the farm and all about asparagus.  They also highly recommend taste testing...you know I was all about that!

Let the picking begin...and to be exact, we gathered up 9 lbs. of asparagus.  That's a lot in case you were wondering.  Probably the best tasting I have ever had too.  Crisp and flavorful, definitely worth the "picking".  It was the perfect Sunday. I recommend taking the drive to visit.

xoxo, 

Shona