This past August it was time to make the kid pick-up, and I decided I would drive up through Oklahoma, head east, and make my way to my parents' from there. Surprisingly, despite living in Texas my entire life, I had never stepped foot in Oklahoma, and I thought a Road Trip for One would be a perfect photo-opportunity. So, I consulted with my Facebook friends, received some good advice from other helpful family members, and created my own Instagram hashtag: #JenIsRoadTrippin. Oh, and I grabbed an actual map... Sorry, Siri, you just aren't reliable.
I set out a little late in the day, but I missed the infamous Dallas traffic. Goodness. It wasn't long before I realized why I had never taken this route before- it was boring! Seriously. Not a thing to look at, much less photograph. Within a couple hours, I was almost regretting my choice. Fortunately, the state line isn't really that far from the Metroplex, and the Red River seemed to welcome me.
The rail road bridge spanning the river practically begged for its portrait to be taken; it was a wonderful subject! The sky was just perfectly overcast, with enough sun peeking out to create beautiful shadows across the tracks.
After spending more time than I had planned at the Red River, I hopped back in the car, excited for the road ahead. It wasn't long before I happened across some men fishing under a railroad bridge in Townson, OK, and I nearly crashed the car getting over in time to stop.
When I passing through Boswell, I hit the photo-jackpot! There were several run-down homes- and we all know how much I LOVE abandoned properties! Obviously, I made a couple stops. The neighbors were pretty suspicious people, so I decided not to hang out for too long.
I did, however, capture some colorful shots of this happy little house. I went in, but only for a minute; something about this house, creeped me out. I got in and out more quickly than I ever had before.
Once I left Townson, there was almost nothing of interest, just a bunch of flat farmland. I decided to head into Arkansas since it was already late in the afternoon, and I had about six hours of driving left ahead of me. I crossed over the last state line and headed toward Hot Springs, where I planned to catch Scenic Highway 7 for the remainder of my journey.
Just as the sun was getting ready to set, I came across Lake Greeson. The park ranger was kind enough to let me in, even though it was just about closing time. Here, I was greatly, and pleasantly, rewarded with one of the most breathtaking sunsets I have ever seen...
It was so beautiful, and so incredibly peaceful on the lake, I could have camped right there, all alone. The silence was golden, broken only by the sound of the occasional fish splashing the surface of the water. I stayed for several minutes, wishing I had brought a bathing suit and a blanket to sit on. I relished this peace, and I think the universe smiled a little, giving me two very different faces within minutes of each other. Nightfall arrived with a glory all its own...
If you liked this series, I encourage you to find me on Instagram. My name is JenniferThomson80, or you can search #JenIsRoadTrippin. I'd love for you to follow me!
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