Trying to explain to Europeans where I’m from is an adventure.  Smack dab in the middle of the U.S.  Six hours south of Chicago—ish.  And if all else fails, I’d stick out my hand sideways, pointing to an imaginary Los Angeles and New York and then me—right in the middle.  I’m grateful for growing up in Mid-Missouri and really appreciate its contribution to my childhood.  But let’s just say Mid-MO has never swooned me.

“How close it it to an ocean?”  “They’re mountains there right?”  Missouri’s far distance from the ocean and mountains make it less than glamorous when explaining it to non-Americans.  But oddly enough, my summer abroad in France made me love Mid-Missouri that much more.  Just like Missouri, France had highways with meh views and fields filled with crops.  Just because it’s France, it’s cool, but the more I thought about it, I realize where I grew up had gorgeous sights too.  I realized we’re so hesitant to be in awe.  It’s as if what’s been given to us is never enough.

Okay, sure—I don’t have any castles in my neighborhood.  Compared to other countries, America is very young.  I adore the rich history and ancient architecture of Europe, which can’t be found in my home country.  But at the same time, beauty is not limited to one part of the world.  I spent a day exploring Rocheport and Booneville in Mid-Missouri, and pleasant is the first word I think of to describe this experience.

We started our Saturday morning off in Rocheport at Meriwether Café and Bike Shop aka the cutest little find.  After we rented our bikes, we headed out on the Katy Trail for a sweet, tranquil ride.

After an hour in the heat, we were ready for a break.  We headed to Boonville for antiquing.  Let’s just say there’s never a dull moment…

Mid-Missouri, it wasn’t love at first sight, but you’re growing on me.