Cooling Off in Mountain View

Last summer's unusually cool temps were definitely a fluke. It's hot in Arkansas again! The weekend before last we were trying to think of something fun to do that would not induce a heat stroke. We decided to go to Blanchard Springs. I have not been since I was a teenager when Lisa and Ray took our "youth group". My kids have never been, and Jeff went once when he was about Nathan's age.

First, we toured the cavern which is a comfortable 58 degrees year-round. If it weren't for the bats and creepy-crawly things, I think I could live in a cave: cool, dark, and quiet. I forgot my camera, so the only pictures I have were taken with my phone.

Nathan was impressed with the size and the formations in the cavern. We were all unimpressed with our tour guide and overheard at the end of our journey that it was his first time to lead a group.

After the cave tour, we met up with the Fowlkes at Sylamore Creek for a swim in the cool, clear water. The kids had a great time. Again, no camera, so Jennifer forwarded me this pic.

We spent the night with the Fowlkes and had lunch on the MV Square before we headed home. Here's another pic Jennifer sent me of the kids: