To paraphrase- I revel in the feeling of escape. And that's in whatever kind I can get; that of a physical nature, (i.e literally running away), escaping into a brilliant novel, or escaping into the words of my own creation. At times I would give anything to just-not be here-to not be present. And sometimes I have to fight to keep staying in the moment, to keep still- whether in my body or in my mind.
This past weekend I was given the opportunity to "run away" and, with slight hesitation, I jumped for the opportunity to see different streets, different trees, different pastures. Do you ever notice how days start to blur together after awhile? Sadly, some people will live out their days in such a fog. I, though, have found that this monotonous pattern means I need to break the pattern.
It was such a pleasant surprise to find that a journey away could be a mere hour and a half distance.
Cottonwood Falls has a population of 874, and I believe I saw about 5 of those residents. And it was oddly refreshing. This tiny town appeared almost abandoned, save for the few cars we passed on the main streets, and the children playing good naturedly on their front lawns. The lights of the many Southern inspired homes, that lined the few blocks around the main square, were brightly lit yet free of any shadows of a human form.
I, at times, have a very bad opinion of the state of Kansas. I was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas. I've lived in the same house for nearly twenty years, fighting ever rumor of a possible move. It's become home, and I've grown accustomed to the monotony of every day life here. Yet catch me on a rough day, and I'll be rip roaring ready to pack up and fly far, far away.
It's a common thing, to take advantage of things we're used to. That's why we may treat our families the worst, complain about our possessions the most, and lose appreciation for the hometown we would relatively never think of leaving. It's these moments of weakness when we must reevaluate what we truly have.
So it's been my mission to "Rediscover" Kansas; to find the beauty I've been convinced it holds. So with this series of articles, I will be taking you all on my journey through the valleys of Kansas.
We left on a rainy Friday afternoon, just inching toward evening time, yet you would swear it was nighttime due to the dark thunderous clouds. Certainly not the best weather for travel; yet our excitement drove us through the bleak surroundings. And bleak, it certainly was not. As we drove I gazed out the window in admiration of my beautiful state. The green pastures gleamed next to the gray sky, creating a storybook feel to an otherwise typical day.
When arriving into Cottonwood Falls this feeling of comfort settled into my bones; this feeling warmed my otherwise chilly skin. I was pleasantly surprised at what I found, and it was like every quaint little town I've read or seen through moving pictures. I was instantly happy, a happy that I don't feel too often, a happy that can sigh in relief. I took a deep breath in of the crisp, rainy air and settled into a feeling that can only be described as alive.
I'm sure many are scoffing at my excitement. This is, after all, a very small town without the amenities of an even slightly bigger location. Essentially I was ecstatic to just see brick roads.
The place we stayed was a little string of cabin-like rooms that sat along the dam. I immediately found myself lounging on a concrete slab near the roar of the rushing water, book in hand- naturally. It was such a simple beauty, a simple sound yet it refreshed my otherwise anxious soul.
After my relaxation I spent most of my time
exploring the town, that is the courthouse square. This square was comprised of antique shops, gift shops, galleries, a bed and breakfast/ steak house, a wine company, and a few other miscellaneous buildings that led up to the historical courthouse.
I lived out a fantasy of mine, that is to ride my bike to an antique shop. Where this item on my bucket list came from, I don't know, most likely a book-anyways it was a magical feeling. 'Cottonwood Falls Collectables' was my wonderland. Ran by the quintessential grandma figure, Sandy Vick has created one of the most delightful stores with 50+ years of collecting. This eclectic little shop is worth a visit.
I could also stand to mention 'Fiber Factory Gift Shop' , ran by Carol Klamm. Here, she makes book marks, shawls, hats, and much more on 19th century looms, that of which are very present around the store. I was ready for a lesson!
And if I would have known that the wine company was not just a wine company, I can assure you I would have been there for every single one of my meals. I cannot express how blown away I was at this diner. And I'm not sure if 'diner' is the correct term, yet that was the feel. 'Keller Feed & Wine Company' has me craving their brunch, just thinking about it. They offer a galore of interesting, yet not threatening, meals. And I have the goal (yet another bucket list item) of working through their menu. If you are able to dine for brunch I highly suggest anything with their gravy, maybe even just a bowl of their gravy. Gravy soup? Stew? I don't know, it's your life...
And since it is your life, you can also enjoy any one of their 'Adult' milkshakes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert. Because this is Cottonwood Falls, and we view Cottonwood Falls much like Vegas- what happens there...well you get it.
I could go on about this place, and maybe I'm giddy merely because I was in need of an escape, yet regardless I plan on returning. And I feel like anyone wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy city, or a busy life, or a busy mind would enjoy such a place as this.
While returning home I was met with a very sleepy kitty, and the comfort of my own bed. And I felt relief again. I let out a sigh in content that I was home, because although I like escaping I also like returning. Plus I can't go very long without my partner in crime- Scout. She was also eager for my return, meaning the promise of a new toy or more food. We've reached a consensus in our companionship- bribing for eternal love seems very reasonable.
So, as I sit and reminisce, I am reminded of how easy it is to refresh my system. I no longer need to go so long, suffering in the claustrophobia of my mind. Kansas is a place for adventures, I only need to find them.
Scout says I can't leave her again, though. I think I agree.
Happy Reading.
Happy Discovering.
