One of the highlights of my trip to Missouri was getting to visit Rocky Ridge Farm near Mansfield, the last home of Laura Ingalls Wilder. I can still remember, my nine year old self finding Little House in the Big Woods on the shelf at the local library. It was a chilly Saturday in November. When I got home I sat down in front of the furnace, opened the book - and as any of you who have read these wonderful books knows - I was hooked. Several years later it was a delight to introduce my baby sister to the books, and many years after that to my daughter. There was something extra special in getting to share this experience of being at the farm with her.
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As a child I was captivated by the fact that
Laura and I shared the same birthday.
And interestingly enough her daughter Rose and
my daughter Bronwyn also share a birthday.
It was amazing to walk the grounds, looking out over
the views that Laura, Almanzo and Rose saw.
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The house has stood for over 100 years and is
lovingly cared for by a cadre of enthusiastic volunteers.
Our tour guide was marvelous.
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As we drove back through town, Bronwyn stopped so I could get this shot of the Mansfield library, which, fittingly enough is named for their most famous citizen.
This is actually pretty magical.
ReplyDeleteIt's wonderful that an author can touch us in a way that make us feel in awe of place.
Chris - I think the best part was getting to share it with my daughter!
ReplyDeleteErin
what a beautiful place. I can imagine you and Bronwyn, arm in arm, slowly taking in the entire experience. Sigh.
ReplyDeleteLisa - So green! We don't have green in California during the summer, probably because we don't have rain in the summer and this year not in the spring either.
ReplyDeleteErin