Toto, I've a feeling I really love Kansas now
Image looking out into the horizon of the empty ocean. The feeling from that view is majestic, it makes you think of our size in this vast world, it’s a beautiful thing.
This is how I felt in Kansas, the rolling plains and fields give you this same sense of scale and beauty. I didn’t connect this type of beauty at first, it exceeded my expectations, not only the beauty of the state but it’s people.
For me, when I think of Kansas I see images from the Dust Bowl, drab browned out sparsely populated land. Fortunately, this only becomes the case as you get within 2 hours of the Colorado-Kansas border.
My first introduction to the state was Kansas City, which is known for its world-famous BBQ. I had to try it, for recommendations I followed an inspiration.
“Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que […] It's the best BBQ in Kansas City, which makes it the best BBQ in the world.” - Anthony Bourdain, rest in peace.
Joe’s is situated in a gas station converted into a restaurant, this unique context added to their allure The wait was nearly 30 minutes long, this plus the Bourdain recommendation set my expectations high and I can assure you they were met. Warning, please look away vegans, my apologies.
I started with the ribs, perfectly charred on the outside, and incredibly tender. These might have been the best ribs I’ve had in my 23 years of life. The brisket matched appropriately. Both perfect in seasoning and complimented with a unique BBQ sauce that was indeed finger linkin’ good.
After stopping here, I began a 3-hour haul to a micro-dairy farm, Good Karma dairy. As I’m nearing the highway exit I noticed a low flying crop plane along the road.
Naturally, I pull off to appease my curiosity and take a few pictures. Sure enough, the pilot decides to fly low over me, giving me a mini private airshow.
Finally, I make it to Good Karma. Fitting name for a farm run by a vegetarian couple that held themselves to a high ethical standard with their animals. (Also fun fact, the author, Michael Lewis is friends with the couple and has stayed their multiple times).
At this point, I’m a bit exhausted from driving roughly 7 hours. After I began to get out I’m immediately swarmed by 3 dogs, this gave me some energy and made me quickly fall in love with the place.
The couple, Erin and Doug were amazing. They had a philosophy of treating their animals well, something like—if the animal is happy the product will make the human happy. I could tell this was true after trying some of their dairy products.
While Doug finished up with the cows and Erin with the goats, they suggested I take a hike on the property.
Up the hill, I went, filled with luscious greenery you wouldn’t expect in Kansas. I passed their horses only to be met by a group of goats. As someone unfamiliar with farm life I try to maintain my distance.
I had to summon my inner Barry Sanders to juke them out to reach the summit. I was rewarded with a beautiful Kansas sunset. While I thought this was beautiful, it was quickly eclipsed by seeing the stars and glowing Milky Way
Kansas was an underrated gem, so much beauty in a state that’s often overlooked. Thankful to experience their amazing BBQ and to have stayed at Good Karma, I hope to go back one day.