It doesn't always go as planned

but that doesn't mean it wasn't fun.

I envisioned blue skies,

white fluffy clouds,

picturesque cattle and fields

and quaint, perhaps abandoned, homes

practically begging to be explored 

and photographed.

I got 50 shades of gray sky

and rain; 

hours and hours of rain.

The fields were there

but I got soaked just taking these pictures,

so I gave up getting any more.

It was not the day I had planned.

But it was rural Missouri

so there were surprises

because nothing quite says 

"Happy Fourth of July"

like Darth Vader, Yoda 

and a wild turkey in a boat!

And there was treasure hunting.

You've got to love a town where people read

AND sell antiques!

 

Now THIS is the way to celebrate our freedom - 

poking around in other folks cast offs!

Recycling at its most glorious!

 I thought of all the Christmas 'stuff' I still have downstairs -

after giving away boxes of it - 

and I resisted the holiday section - 

although my heart did beat a bit faster while browsing around.

Textiles were the draw of the day ...

although I don't need any.

But 'need' doesn't enter into the equation on these outings!

Politically incorrect or not,

this vintage "Black Lives Matter" baby doll made me smile!

(Too soon?)

 

I was tempted by this guy too ...

and found myself wondering what his story was.

 

 I never fully understand why some antique stores look more like museums than stores.

I had an upcoming event on my mind as well

but didn't succumb to any vintage baby item - 

yet!

 Wandered around in the gardens before the rains forced me back inside the car 

and headed home.

 Oh well, at least I have another excuse to go out again later this summer!