into God's country, AR

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I spent the weekend driving south through Missouri into Arkansas.



The home of Walmart and the Ozark Mountains and other contrasts bordering on paradox.



I was really charmed by most of it. It's definitely like being in another country for me. A study in contrasting elements. White trash by the pound and still some of the nicest people I've met recently. Unapologetic and laid back.

Some of the most desperately poor living conditions I've seen, drowning in a throwaway culture (even though no one seems to throw anything away, just out in the front yard) with Wal-mart sized disrespect for beauty, the environment and the future all co-existing inside this jewel of amazing country.







This is the town that I stayed in, Eureka Springs. A little old 1800's German town built around some hot springs with supposed curative mineral qualites. You can still feel the history of the quacks selling "the cure" in the air (and typography) - just now mixed with a little cow town and a lot of southern hospitality. This place rules.







These guys were so good. I usually don't stop much for buskers but they were so into it it would have been harder not to. so were the little kids. good way to waste an hour, for sure.



Had some great Indian food in this little cafe and heard some really good guitar and harmonica playing from a young girl from Fayetteville who called me sir, in the only way I've ever heard that sounded alright. must be the southern charm. great place. really warm and easy.






Cheers, I'll be back for some catfish and cornbread, soon.


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