Howdy to ya,
I write you this earnest letter from an apartment once rented by the Barrow Gang. They spent a few months here in Joplin, Missouri in 1933, and left in a big hurry when the police showed up.
My co-adventurer and long-time best friend Sonja and I have taken the time to strategically organize our belongings and fit them like Tetris blocks into our rented Toyota Camry. Bonnie and Clyde didn’t have that luxury when they fled the scene, killing two police in the process. Among the items left behind was a roll of film that provided now iconic pictures of the famous outlaws.
My eyes are tired from driving the entire 10 hours to Joplin yesterday, but my spirit is wide awake and ready to see the rest of the country from here to California. On top of driving, I must help with many other tasks, like packing the car and setting up the tent tonight, because Sonja’s arm is broken. Fortunately, her moral support is strong and healthy, and it’s thanks to her snack serving system and podcast DJing abilities that the drive felt manageable yesterday.
There is no time for story telling, because the road calls and we must arrive on the west side of Kansas this evening in time to set up camp. What I can give you, however, are my entertainment recommendations from yesterday’s drive.
Dolly Parton’s America — A nine-part series that explores why everyone loves Dolly (now we do, too).
Last Podcast on the Left: Bonnie and Clyde — We wanted a little background to get us amped about our special Airbnb experience. This one has done the research and tells the story in good detail. It’s a good listen as long as you can put up with the sort of goofy frat boy drunken cocaine energy that comes from the podcast hosts.
“Funnel of Love by Wanda Jackson” — oooo it’s a goody.
The “Only Lovers Left Alive” Version — In case that one is too trippy for you.
“Bonnie and Clyde” by Serge Gainsbourg and Brigit Bardot — No explanation needed.
The car is packed, the coffee is brewed, and I, my friends, am signing off for now.
xo
Katya