Journey Through South Dakota: My Unexpected Adventure
As I rolled out of Scotland, South Dakota, this morning, I felt a familiar tingle of excitement coursing through me. I didn’t know what to expect, but I felt good about this trip. Sometimes, you just need to reconnect with simplicity, and after a week of busy work days, this quiet little town was exactly what I needed, even though I did a ton of work while in the city park.
🌄 Embracing Solitude
Scotland, with its sparse but gentle charm, offered me an opportunity to pause and reflect. It’s not a place bustling with activity, which was just fine. I had anticipated a slow pace, and that’s precisely what I got—a clean slate that allowed me to think and work. After my stint there, I planned to make one pit stop before heading closer to Sioux Falls, where I had intended to pick up some packages in an Amazon locker. However, life had other plans for me.
📦 Plans Afoot and a Change of Course
Just as I was narrating my plans, an email from Amazon hit my inbox like a icy splash of water—I’d have to delay my pickup for 24 hours. In an instant, my route shifted, and I found myself making an unplanned stop in Viborg, South Dakota, a quaint little campground. The setup was simple, just three camping spots, and I was the only one there. Talk about peace and quiet!
⛪ A Surprise in Taber
However, unplanned stops often lead to unexpected discoveries. On my way to the Mead Museum in Yankton, I decided to check out the small town of Taber. I stumbled upon the century-old Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church and Cemetery.
The beautiful architecture and stunning artwork inside were awe-inspiring, enchanting me with stories of generations past. Walking through the cemetery felt like stepping back in time—each headstone whispering tales of history.
🌊 Exploring Riverside Park
Next, I took a leisurely stroll around Riverside Park, located next to the Missouri River. The tranquil flow of the water mirrored my mood. I breathed in the crisp air, letting the beauty of nature wash over me. It’s in moments like these that I often find clarity, realigning my thoughts and refreshing my spirit.
🏛️ Discovering the Mead Museum
Arriving at the Mead Museum, I learned it has quite a history—it was once a mental hospital. While the building had fallen into disrepair, it has now transformed into a museum celebrating the region’s history, including a fascinating Lewis and Clark exhibit and an exhibit dedicated to its previous life an an asylum. The juxtaposition of past and present kept me captivated, eager to learn more about what lies within those walls.
🌮 Savoring Tacos with a Side of Reflection
And after exploring, what better way to round off my little adventure than with some delicious tacos? It’s those little indulgences that make experiences memorable, don’t you agree? The thrill of discovery and the joy of simple pleasures like good food can elevate a day from ordinary to extraordinary.
Feeling the sun setting behind the horizon, I realized that sometimes the best journeys are not just about the destinations but the unexpected detours along the way. With a change in plans, I embraced each moment, savoring the sights, sounds, and tastes of South Dakota, a state rich in beauty and stories yet to be told. As I sit here reflecting, I can’t help but feel grateful for the little surprises that life throws my way, reminding me to enjoy the ride.