April 28, 2007 Branson to West Memphis, AK

This was a “driving day”. As we headed toward Tennessee across Eastern AK, the scenery was slightly rolling hills, spring-like green trees and grass, some frost-damaged trees, and farmland…also lots of “Arkansas elk.” This label became a part of our vocabulary in Western Arkansas. A gentleman at the Jasper Chamber of Commerce had suggested that we watch for the elk that abound in the valley and we would see them when we crested “yonder hill.” With much anticipation, we awaited our wildlife viewing opportunity. Somehow the elk heard us coming and convinced the cows to take their place. We are staying for two nights at the Tom Sawyer Mississippi River RV Park. It is truly right on the Mississippi, and the park becomes part of the floodplain as it lies between the river and the levee. After doing our “research”(talking to people), we headed for Memphis to try the famous barbecued ribs. Rendezvous, a highly recommended destination for ribs, was in an alley unknown to our GPS, but Rog persevered. We learned that ribs are served wet or dry, and this place serves dry ribs. You choose the sauce after they are served. Conclusion: Most Californians should go for wet ribs…but we would be outvoted in these parts judging by the hordes of people waiting for a table. Beale Street, home of the Blues, was next. In the evening, it becomes a pedestrian walkway, so we joined many others who ambled along stopping to listen to jazz, blues, and other types of music. BB King’s was a popular place on this Saturday evening.