A Love Letter to Arkansas

Dear Arkansas,

I owe you a big, fat apology. Earlier this year I wrote about you, and wanted to give you the recognition you deserved. I humbly admit I failed. You are far more magical than I ever knew. Please hear me out, and give me another chance.

 

Bentonville

I first went to you on a rainy day, a day I couldn’t do my precious hiking. You were but a backup. And then I couldn’t believe I spent almost thirty minutes finding a damn parking space! Yes, I know there was a huge bike race. I was still irritated.

But I gave you a chance—and dare I say, you were a slay? Beautiful murals, yummy food, a Walmart Museum that was fun (??), and a gorgeous art museum by the river. Honestly? Go off.

Eureka Springs

Wow, what can I say to give you justice?

I’ll start with my gripes. You weren’t always the nicest. Your roads were treacherous, parking was expensive, and your steep hills hurt my poor calves.

But visiting you was like being transported into a magic fairyland. You had endless quirky, cute shops. So many that when I tried to visit a museum, I kept getting distracted and wasted my time and money on other things and never even made it! I don’t know what business you thought you had being so inviting.

 

Glory Hole

I had a bagel at your pretty and unique waterfall. Which is cool and all, but I was mad you were barely flowing in October. Please do better.

 

Mount Magazine

Okay, maybe I should’ve looked more closely at the hike, but I just saw “tallest point in Arkansas” and thought, “why not?” So I got my snacks and water, and braced myself for the journey. And then…

It was short! And the top had no view! Just a random spot in the woods with a sign. I was so confused.

Don’t get me wrong, I saw your beauty afterward at the lodge, another hike, and even more lookout points. I forgive you.

 

Whitaker Point

Google told me that you were the most popular hike in Arkansas, and I can see why. Not too challenging, but an amazing view of the Ozarks.

That being said, I didn’t appreciate your scary ledges. Heights scare me, and I just wish you could’ve made an exception for me.

 

Lake Valley

Keep it a secret, but you were my favorite. You were pure magic, and there isn’t a picture that can do you justice. Waterfalls, unique rocks, and a cute cave to crawl through for an even better view. I don’t deserve you.

Also, thank you for giving me an older couple to walk back with when I was feeling lonely. I think they were surprised that I was hiking alone, and gave me a fifty dollar bill that I later spent on makeup, which I’m sure was their intent.

 

Hemmed in Hollows

You’re the biggest waterfall in Arkansas, and truly, I won’t comment further. I believe you are sacred ground.

That said, I do apologize for getting sick and throwing up four times on you. You’re way too pretty, and you deserve better.

 

Kyle’s Landing

I went the day after puking because I was panicking that I didn’t know the next time I’d see the Buffalo National River area again.

You didn’t disappoint.

Enough said.

 

Mount Nebo 

I’ll be honest.

I almost didn’t come. I was burned out, and it was raining.

Nevertheless, I forced myself to go, and can you guess what I saw? The most scary, steep, windy roads I’ve ever been on. I’ll have you know, I didn’t have a good time.

But then I walked the Rim Trail, essentially circling your mountains. I got seemingly endless views of your beauty, and I don’t know if I should scold you for taking up camera memory space.

Even with the drama, I have to admit that you were worth it.

 

Devil’s Den

I know you have beautiful hiking, but I needed a chill night—so I wasn’t even upset when it rained. And honestly? I had the cutest Airbnb with the most breathtaking views.

I went out to eat at a restaurant with fried catfish and hush puppies. And on a Friday night in a small town? I felt like I had a glimpse into the lives of a real Southerner.

You were the conclusion, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

 

The People

It’s wild because a year ago I had a negative perception of the South. I thought they were old-fashioned and backwards, and that the South would never be my thing. After spending thirty days in the South and over half of them in Arkansas, I’ve completely changed my mind.

Your people are so kind and friendly, and I can’t stop reminiscing over my experiences. I constantly had people offering to help me, even when I didn’t need it! I can honestly say I’ve never experienced anything like it. While this was a solo trip and I don’t have any friends living in Arkansas, I felt as though I was part of a big community—and it made me feel far less lonely.

I’m shocked I’m saying this, but the South feels comfortable and homey in a way that neither Grand Rapids nor Kansas City ever have.

 

Closing

I found you when I was at my lowest. I was struggling with a stressful job and overwhelmed by a moldy furnace. When I came to you, I was barely leaving my house. Just no energy.

But you showed me I was strong and not because of what I did or didn’t do at work. I could be proud of my body and mind for planning a trip independently, managing hurdles, and hiking nearly everyday.

And last but not least, you showed me the world was bigger than Kansas City, and taught me how to explore it with joy. Until now, my vacations had been about needing a break and escaping.

This was different. I was present, and felt connected with myself and God. It was a surreal experience, and I hope that I never forget it.

Please don’t worry. I’ll visit again soon.

Yours truly,

Michelle Ferdinands