A few photos from friendly Branson - we had such a fabulous visit.
Arriving at Springfield, Missouri airport at sunset.
Walking through the charming historic old part of Branson.
We went to these six shows whilst in Branson.
Every one was really good with great singers and dancers, definitely a lot of fun.
My favorite (Bob's too) was George Dyer - the most charming tenor with
an extraordinary voice who could sing anything, he blew us away!
Theatres, theatres everywhere!
Early on a sunny morning Paula, Bob and I took a trip to the National Tiger Sanctuary
near Branson.
This is a non-profit, rescue and training organization that provides a permanent
home for exotic and domestic animals.
The sanctuary is dedicated to preservation of the environment and exemplary
animal care. IT IS NOT A ZOO, and there are no breeding programs.
The white tigers were rescued from a magic show. They had only ever lived
on concrete, causing them serious foot problems. Now they are healing and
gradually becoming used to their spacious natural area complete with their
own 'swimming pools'.
They are magnificent animals.
This is Harry, one of two cubs rescued after being used in the 'Pay for Play' industry.
Many exotics die early from stress and germs after being handled that way.
Harry loves the water for swimming, even when it's ice cold.
A pride of lions were brought to the sanctuary in 2013. There are two are large males,
with three females - they all seem to get along well together. These cats were owned
by a private collector. When he died, apparently his wife did not want to continue
caring for them. I wonder why?
This female was not too happy when I bent down to eye level to take her picture,
and snarled at me. I still loved her!
This is Leo, an extremely large older lion who loved just lying in the sun,
yawning and showing us his huge teeth when he roared!
As you may know, we no longer visit zoos since traveling to Africa and
viewing the big cats (no tigers there of course, but plenty of lions, leopards
and cheetahs) in their natural habitats. This sanctuary appears to be in excellent
hands, with much love and devotion shown toward their animals, all of which
have been rescued from dire conditions where their lives were at risk.
Yes, the Branson trip was a lot of fun - and of course seeing dear friends
was wonderful as always.
I'll be taking a short blog break this week - have a lot going on and need
to play catch up.
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