Branson Vacation

So we went off to Branson, Missouri this past week.  We visited some outdoor shopping areas, had a date night, visited Silver Dollar City amusement park, went mini golfing, fed the ducks, did a little fishing, and swam.  Branson is "the midwest's answer to Las Vegas."  In other words, it's a family friendly Vegas.  There's lots of shows, outdoor areas, shopping, and fun stuff.  All the shopping areas had Christian bookstores and Silver Dollar City is a Christian theme park. 

Silver Dollar City
Much of the merchandise has Christian themes and verses on them and the rules posted in one of the stores (employee rules) were very much centered on Christian values.  It was very refreshing to see a business like it succeeding and to simply be able to relax in such an environment.  The park is frontier themed and have craftsmen demonstrate in different areas of the park along with shows and some really great rides.  We had the opportunity to see glass blowing, a blacksmith, candy making, work on the pottery wheel, etc.  We had a blast.  Sorry, I didn't end up bringing my camera, but we'll see if Anthony got any shots on his ipod. 


This video is of our trip to one of the outlet malls in Branson. 

As you have probably noticed...we were killing time.



He had a difficult time negotiating the distance between the wheel and the seat.



almost there

And here are two shots of our date night:

Water show after dinner at this shopping plaza.  The river is behind the fountain.