Mule Day Champion

No, it's not a beach, but I think it's pretty. The white stuff isn't sand, but kaolin. Kaolin is white clay that is mined in certain parts of Georgia. It is used in paint production, among other things. This is a retention area behind a factory where they process the clay into powder and bag it up.

 

No, it's not Wyoming and it's not snow either. Actually a dune on the gulf coast of Florida near Fort Walton Beach.

 

I hadn't been across I-10 in Texas for some time until last week when I came across this fairly new rest area.

It appears the surrounding vegetation was spared when the buildings were constructed, most likely out of some environmental concern, or to portray a more natural look. I think it looks downright creepy.

 

Thank-you. I'm glad to know it was appreciated. The truth is, I was on a dedicated run for so long that I never saw anything different from week to week but I'm starting to get out again so I will keep my eyes open for new stuff.

 

She nearly broke my heart. Friday I ate breakfast at the old truckstop in McNeill MS which as been there forever as far as I know. I saw this old pup as I left the restaurant, making brief eye contact but refraining from speaking. Having three dogs of my own, I really love them and they seem to take to me as well.

As I climbed into the cab I turned to see she had followed me across the parking lot. She sat right outside my door and gave me the sad eyed stare treatment. After I did my best to ignore her for a few minutes she walked away for a few minutes but came right back.

Judging from her swollen teats, she had recently had a litter, which would explain the slight concave look of her sides, but she was far from underfed. I believe she has figured out that many truckers are a soft touch and I wasn't the only one to get followed across the lot. I eased my conscience further by noting she is hanging around one of the best eating places in the region and probably gets her share of leftovers from the back door.

 

Last week I was dismayed to learn that one of my favorite truckstops had closed it doors forever. A Union 76 at one time, it was located at the Peeler Road exit near Salisbury NC. I remember buying cigarettes there for $4.00 per carton over thirty years ago.

A notable feature was the little chapel, complete with a steeple and stained glass windows. Services were held there seven days per week. The little chapel was gone, so I'm hoping the preacher was able to load it up and transport it somewhere where it can be appreciated.

Thankfully, the little church below is still around. I saw it yesterday at the old truckstop in Doswell VA, near Kings Dominion amusement park. I don't know if services are still held in this one, but it is nice to look at. I have built a few structures myself around my home and I can appreciate the craftsmanship that went into this, despite its diminutive size.

 

This is yours truly and my first grandchild, Jaxon, born May 11, 2013