Branson - music and more!

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.

A visit from the Cedar Waxwings. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Recently, early morning, a flock of beautiful Cedar waxwings took a 

short break in our backyard trees. I first noticed about a dozen squabbling

 over whom would get a drink from the birdbath. 

I ran for the camera but by the time I returned to the window they

 were up on the branches with about 20 more birds, all preening before moving

 on to wherever they were headed, probably back up north. Such lovely birds.

I'm still visiting in Branson, Missouri.
Yes, enjoying the music and being with friends.
Weather has turned cold after the stormy night but will
 warm up again tomorrow. 

Mountains and Music . . . . . . . .

Flying westward later today. 

A little trip to Branson, Missouri.

It will be my first time in the Ozarks. 

Although we may not have time to see a lot of the beautiful mountain scenery, 

I'm hoping flying in will bring some great aerial views before the sun sets this evening.

 We'll meet up with California friends to enjoy some time together . . . . . 

and plenty of music which Branson is known for.  

We'll attend several concerts which I'm sure will be fun.

Coming back home for Easter.

The rabbits will be waiting. . . . . . 

and a chocolate egg is tucked away for someone special.