And You Think Portland is Weird

There is weird and there is weird, southern style. I’ve been driving Branson’s Main St at least weekly as it is the route to the animal shelter where I volunteer. Mostly walking dogs and sitting with the cats.

It is on the “Shepard of the Hills” highway right next to this.

Everything is pretty slow right now; that means that the traffic is tolerable. Down the street towards Main are a few of the many theme theaters.

Everyone has their “thing”.

I don’t know the history of Branson other than it was designed to be the “Clean Living” version of Las Vegas. Main Street has just a few of the attractions.

There are many places to play wholesome games.

And of course, worship.

Just part of your basic modest church. I’m thinking that “His Noodliness” could use a brick and mortar presence here.

Some of the other attractions, Ripley’s.

I just don’t feel inclined to go in there.

The Titanic is in mid collision with it’s nemesis. The fountain at the bow makes it look like it is moving.

I don’t think King Kong is wax.

There are plenty of places to restock your Confederate flag supply.

The proliferation of power lines kinda detracts from the “strip” atmosphere.

They pander to the religious and “patriotic” pretty equally.

They seem to equate patriotism with military service. Like being a vet proves you are patriotic. I wear my “war bonnet” (my Vietnam Veteran baseball cap) to prevent any first impressions that I might be a hippecommiepinkobedwettingbleedingheartliberal. It works; I get a lot of “Thank you for your service”.

If I have time, I give this response, “You’re welcome, It wasn’t voluntary.” I like to give them something to think about. Remember, even if you enlisted, in my day it was probably because you were about to be drafted. I don’t consider that voluntary.

You’d be surprised how many women have said, “Yes, my husband was drafted too”. I’m collecting many interesting stories of life after the military.

Spring is trying to break out here. Just a few birds pairing up and squirrels chasing each other. The weather is perfect for it.

Stay warm.