Entry 84: Visiting the Buddy Holly Crash Site in Iowa: Remembering “The Day the Music Died”

I finally made it to a place I've long wanted to visit—the crash site near Clear Lake, Iowa, where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson tragically lost their lives on February 3, 1959. Known as “The Day the Music Died,” this moment reshaped music history. The walk from the parking area to the site was quiet and peaceful, surrounded by fields of corn. There’s something poignant about the simplicity of the setting—it adds to the weight of the moment.

Located just northeast of the intersection of 315th Street and Gull Avenue near Mason City, Iowa, the memorial site honors these three rock and roll pioneers. A small marker and guitar-shaped memorial serve as a humble, heartfelt tribute.

Buddy Holly: The Rock & Roll Visionary

Born in Lubbock, Texas, Buddy Holly was a musical innovator who helped define early rock and roll. With hits like “That’ll Be the Day,” “Peggy Sue,” and “Rave On,” he blended country, R&B, and pop into a fresh sound. He also pioneered studio recording techniques and was among the first to write, produce, and perform his own songs. His influence shaped the next generation—from The Beatles to Bob Dylan.

The Big Bopper: Radio DJ Turned Rock Star

J.P. Richardson, aka The Big Bopper, got his start as a Texas radio DJ. With a big personality and booming voice, he rose to fame with his 1958 hit “Chantilly Lace.” Known for his fun-loving, theatrical performances, Richardson brought humor and energy to the early rock scene and left his own distinctive mark on the genre.

Ritchie Valens: A Latino Trailblazer in Rock

At just 17, Ritchie Valens became one of the first Latino stars in rock and roll. With hits like “La Bamba” and “Donna,” he fused Mexican folk music with mainstream rock, opening the door for generations of Latinx musicians. His talent and charisma made his meteoric rise all the more tragic.

Standing at the crash site was a moment of deep reflection. These young musicians were at the top of their game, yet gone far too soon. Their legacy lives on in every chord, lyric, and rhythm of modern music.

Family-Friendly Things to Do Nearby:

Surf Ballroom & Museum (Clear Lake) – Visit the venue where the trio played their final show.
Clear Lake State Park – Great for hiking, beach activities, and picnics.
Kinney Pioneer Museum (Mason City) – A local gem filled with historic artifacts and exhibits.
Music Man Square (Mason City) – A fun and immersive museum dedicated to Meredith Willson and American musical history.

Local Places to Eat and Drink:

Starboard Market (Clear Lake) – Famous for their sandwiches and homemade desserts.
PM Park – Lakeside dining with a relaxed vibe and great breakfast options.
Cabin Coffee Co. (Clear Lake) – Cozy spot for locally roasted coffee and quick bites.
7 Stars Family Restaurant (Mason City) – Friendly service and hearty American classics.

#BuddyHolly #RitchieValens #BigBopper #MusicHistory #CornfieldJourney #RespectAndRemember

Entry 126: A Rainy Night, Birds at Dawn, and the Cozy Joy of Glamping at Ozark RV Park

If you’ve been thinking about trying glamping or need a peaceful base to explore Mountain View, Arkansas, let me share a place you’ll want to add to your list: Ozark RV Park and Cabins. Ozark RV Park & Cabins Call: 870-200-9090 The Glamping Tent I recently stayed in one of their glamping tents, and it was such a fun, comfortable experience. The tent is spacious, set up on a platform with a real bed (on a frame), crisp linens, a fan, air conditioning (yes, you get AC in a tent!), and a Keurig for that first warm cup of coffee in the morning. During my stay, it rained gently, and there is something incredible about falling asleep to the sound of rain on canvas while staying warm and cozy in bed. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds and crisp air, peeking outside to a misty, peaceful campground that felt like a breath of fresh air. The Big Park Sign & Rooster The bathhouse on-site deserves a shout-out. It has the nostalgic feel of a summer camp bathhouse but is immacul...

Entry 85: A Quirky Stop in Austin, MN: Exploring the Spam Museum and More

If you’re into quirky attractions and unexpected fun, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a must-see. Located at 101 3rd Ave NE , this one-of-a-kind destination has been drawing curious travelers and Spam fans since it opened in 1991. After a major expansion and relocation in 2016, the museum now offers an even more immersive and entertaining experience. A Taste of History Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods , and the museum walks you through how this humble canned meat became a global sensation. It played a major role during World War II , feeding troops across the globe and becoming a beloved staple in households everywhere. Inside the museum, you’ll find a blend of history, pop culture, and international flair . Learn how Spam became a hit in countries like South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. You'll also get a glimpse of the role Spam played in post-war culture and its place in today’s culinary world. Interactive Exhibits and More The Spam Museum is...

Entry 131: From Bonsai to Blooms: A Walk Through Portland’s Gardens

A Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden On a quiet morning in downtown Portland, a buddy and I decided to walk from our hotel to the Portland Japanese Garden. The route wound through the city and into Washington Park, and while it was uphill in spots, it was not bad at all. By the time we reached the entrance, we felt like we had already eased into the slower pace the garden promises. Even before I took ten steps inside, the city noise seemed to fade. The air felt cooler and fresher, like the garden had its own climate set apart from the bustle just outside its walls. The path curved gently ahead, leading us past moss-covered stones and neatly raked gravel beds. A small stream gurgled quietly under a wooden footbridge, the sound blending with the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Every turn revealed a new scene, a carefully placed lantern, a cluster of maple trees, or a pond where koi fish drifted lazily through the water. We followed the path uphill to a wide view of the city. Th...

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