Abilene, KS

Well, we spent two nights in Abilene, KS. I went to the "Lucky Charm" Quilt shop in Chapman, about 10 miles east of Abilene. I hit the mother load of Wizard of Oz fabric. Yes, I am a fan, in fact I think it is my favorite movie. I bought a load of fabric and a pattern to use it on. Thank you Caroline.

The next morning, Tuesday, we headed into town and I got to shop at the "Material Girl" Quilt shop and what do you think? They had a whole ton of Wiz of Oz fabric for me to play in. I was very excited and bought another arm load. 
At about 12:30 our friends from KC arrived and after a quick lunch we had a great time touring the Eisenhower Library and Museum, boyhood home and Chapel where he, Mamie and one young son are laid to rest.

The home where Ike grew up is still in it's original location, and all the property surrounding it was purchased for the rest of the buildings. His home is a show case of needle work, quilts and other fine handwork done by his mother Ida. Also some of Ike's own painting is hanging in the home as well. His mother lived in Abilene until her death, which I think was around 1947. They have maintained the home beautifully, and have even used reproductions of the original wall paper.

It was a great day and there was just so much to see and read, it was a bit overwhelming.

I LIKE IKE

We saw many photos of his military career and I had never realized that the entire D Day event was his call. Many advisers and contributors, but he was the one who had to make the final decision.

There was a lot of attention to his time in the White House, I never knew what a great diplomat he was and as we heard him giving a speech, he is a man we could use today in the light of our current crisis.

After the day at the museum we went to the Kirby House for dinner, it is one of those gorgeous antebellum mansions. Though many have become B&B's, this one is a really nice restaurant. The food is really good, and the service is excellent.

After dinner it was time to say goodbye to our friends and as they were leaving Barbara told me that they would not be coming to visit us on all of our stops along the way. I am so disappointed. I thought they couldn't live without us.

Next time more about Dodge City,

Donna