Woodson Road to Lawrence; Distance = 13 Miles; People Met = 3
Did you know that Kansas is where the Civil War started? If not, then you probably have not spent that much time in this state. We first heard of Quantrill’s raiders from Missouri burning down Lawrence in Garden City, and we’ve continued to here about the battles between Kansas and Missouri over slavery through our arrival here in Lawrence. Kansas was the “Free State” in that battle; I’m not sure if we will continue to hear about those skirmishes once we are in Missouri.
Lawrence, Kansas
I gave a presentation for Ecumenical Christian Ministries at Kansas University in the evening. The presentation was so good our audience took us home with them! Of course, Heather and Reid Nelson also brought us to the presentation as well since we already were staying with them, a connection made once again by Gretchen Davis. Unfortunately, they were our only audience because ECM did not publicize and apparently forgot about the event. We were greeted by the bewildered custodian for the building who had to make a phone call to make sure we were legitimate.
I know the Nelsons enjoyed the presentation of slides, music, stories and facts, despite the foggy-headed condition from my cold. Reid is a criminal lawyer and Heather a public defender, both from the Kansas City area. Reid was a student at the Westwood Elementary School where I will give my first presentation for kids; the school where Gretchen Davis once taught, hence, the connection. Heather grew up in nearby Prairie Village, where I also will give a presentation to the Presbyterian Church.
We had a long conversation over the kitchen table, together with some excellent chili and homemade bread. Reid explores ways to cut down on energy costs, including once putting a windmill on top of the house. Also, not every lawyer keeps a microscope and a tome on physics in the house. Both Reid and Heather enjoy music. Reid has played oboe with Kansas City symphonies and Heather plays keyboard for recreational pleasure.
Reid and Heather working on some fine vegetarian chili
Reid and Heather were wonderful hosts and deserved better than a guest spreading his germs all over their home.
A happy couple
Kirk, Cindy, Ky,
These are great pictures of us! I’ve been reading Kirk’s book, which I like quite a lot. It’s streching my mind a little. I’ve never understood economics, so this is good. After you left Lawrence, it occurred to me that maybe you are part of an ancient oral tradition, bringing news and ideas on foot. There is something about this combination of exercise and sharing of ideas that is very appealing to me. Good luck, maybe I’ll see you in KC.
Reid
I’m glad you liked the pictures, and thanks for diving into my book!