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  The journey out to Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge is relatively short and worth at least one visit to Eagle Days.  This year was the first time we actually made it out there for the event, which offered an up-close look at few different live eagles, including that shown in the photo above, the Harpy Eagle from South America.  The event is held there annually, on or about the first Saturday in December.  There are usually free guided bus tours along the 10-mile route around the wetlands, a few live eagle programs, snacks and the chance to simply enjoy a little northern Missouri winter weather. 

  Almost entirely on a whim, along with a lot of prodding by continual advertising on the airwaves, we made our way out to have a look at Guitars & Cadillacs. We had not been to anything of the sort since PBR Big Sky downtown, which proved to be crowded and lacking in space to do anything beyond drink entirely too much. Guitars and Cadillacs stands apart, reminiscent of the Beaumont in Westport, though a little cleaner.  Live music and a huge dance floor were enough.  An accommodating staff and a friendly crowd ranging in age from 21 to 85 rounded out a recipe for a fun evening dancing and having a good time.  Regular return trips are definitely planned, as long as this holds out.

image borrowed from KATV A beautiful weekend unfolded in north central Arkansas for the Fourth of July holiday.  The promise of mostly clear skies, hot and steamy weather, and yet another edition of the World Championship Cardboard Boat Races ensured a good time for all involved. While many delayed their journey until that Friday afternoon, we got a jump on things and made it down Thursday evening.  This offered up the opportunity to squeeze in a little hiking about, visiting with family and friends, and general relaxation, prior to the main event. It also enabled us to catch a late evening performance at Sandy Beach by a couple of stars from "The Voice."  Cory Jackson and Marybeth Byrd took the stage, aka flatbed semi-trailer, in the parking lot overlooking the beach and a fantastic sunset at 7 pm. Cory led off with a string of well known tunes mixed in with a few of his own.  He has got a voice that pairs well with the tunes he chose to croon, never missing a beat.  The sma