The Olivers Take on K.C.

On August 14, 2004, Melinda and I have been married five years! We celebrated just like 43% of America does: by travelling to Kansas City!

We only had a weekend, but we were able to pack a lot into it. We were able to drive by the "Plaza" to see the cool architecture and fancy shops. We made a trip out to Powell Botanical Gardens, which was pretty neat. Jonah had a good time playing in the sandbox with the other kids until he started throwing sand at them. He seemed to know his way around the place, he even pointed out historical and interesting tidbits while giving a tour to some foreign nationals.

Jonah points out interesting stuff

We also saw an amazing water garden. Jonah and I posed in front of it for a happy picture.

Jonah and Daddy in front of a water garden (see the huge lilly pad?)

Later Jonah got together with mommy to discuss plans for getting some barbeque, the kind K.C. is famous for.

Mommy and Jonah discuss barbeque strategy

So, I gave in. After leaving Powell Gardens, we headed toward Southwest Kansas City (Olathe/Overland Park, KS) and made a stop at the Quivera Park where I may or may not have spied a dead body in a bag in the wooded area. After leaving in haste, we were able to visit our friends the Brewers, who just had a cute baby boy named Zeke. Then Jonah's persistence won out and we went to the World-Famous Fiorella's Jack Stack BBQ to experience the dry rub barbeque ribs that made Kansas City famous. I was not disappointed.

After congratulating Jonah for a fine cullinary choice, we made for our hotel for a sound sleep. The next day was spent lazing around and making our way slowly home. Mommy kept Jonah occupied in the back seat while Daddy (that's me) drove safely home.

Mommy and Jonah enjoy their time together on the return trip.

All in all, I'd give the trip a 6 out of 10. Kansas City is great if you love barbeque and fancy shopping. Worlds of Fun is great for older kids. But since I was travelling with a toddler, I should have looked into Great Wolf Lodge, which seems to cater to families with children of all ages.

Last modified at 10/01/2008 19:50:00