[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
Nov. 21, 2001 Pensacola – Jax
We had a safe, uneventful 7 hour trip, making stops for food and gas at Sam’s in Jax at 98.9¢ gal.
I made a chicken casserole which we ate, then packed for the trip tomorrow.
Nov. 22, 2001 Port Canaveral
Thanksgiving Day
We had a self-serve type breakfast, then loaded the van at 9:00 for the trip to Port Canaveral.
What usually takes two hours to arrive here was a three hr trip due to an accident on I-95 + we had to converge to one lane.
We had a quick McDonald’s lunch, and after a thorough check we checked into the lobby + were assigned our rooms on the 2nd deck of the Disney Wonder along with 2,000 other passengers.
Our accommodations are very nice + the kids are next door. We signed up for a glass-bottomed boat ride for tomorrow. Kent + Brynne will be going snorkeling.
Dinner this evening was a lovely traditional Thanksgiving dinner at the Triton Restaurant. Tami, Bert + I checked out the gift store after we all enjoyed “Survivor” show on TV.
Nov. 23, 2001 Port Canaveral – Bahamas (Nassau)
We had a hearty breakfast at the Beach Blanket Buffet. Tami, Bert + I joined the tour to the Glass Bottom Boat + said adieu to Brynne + Kent who left for snorkeling.
We checked the shops after our tour which lasted several hours.
It was very crowded, but we were able to see some of the beautiful homes along the way including the late Mary Kay’s, Elvis’s, and the impressive Atlantis Hotel which Kent’s company had a part in its building.
Kent + Brynne joined the three of us at Scoops for a light lunch. They took off for more touring while dad + I opted for the pool + hot tub for a refreshing + relaxing exercise at the adults’ only pool on the 9th deck.
Dinner tonight was a special treat at the Animators Pilate. The Black + White motif became very colorful with all the Disney characters coming out in vivid colors.
The evening show “Hercules” was very entertaining for children as well as adults.
Nov. 24, 2001 Castaway Cay
After breakfast we disembarked and dad + I took a 1-1/2 mile walk out to the Senior Beach, enjoying the flora + fauna along the way. The kids went snorkeling at their beach. Dad + I took the tram back to the boat stopping at the P.O. to mail a card to Bob + Gen.
Dad + I ate at Parrots Cave + after lunch watched the first half of the Ohio State-Mich. Game, then went to the pool for a swim + relaxed in the whirlpool. Nice!
Dinner was also at Parrot Cay + it was fun being entertained by the servers doing a calypso routine.
We went to the Walt Disney Theatre for a delightful 1-1/2 hour show called Disney Dreams.
Took a few minutes to do some shopping – a visor for me, a T-shirt + tapes for Brynne and then back to the room for final disembark packing for the trip home, first to Jax, then on to visit Peg T tomorrow, and back to Pensacola Tues.
This is our (my) fifth tour [cruise] + I must say, the best accommodations of any including: Yokohama - Hong Kong, Rhine River, Alaska + Greece, Turkey + Israel.
Sunday, November 25, 2001
Friday, October 19, 2001
8th Combat Cargo Squadron Reunion in Indianapolis (2001)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
10/13-19/2001: This is another 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] Reunion. We took these trips every fall + this was an especially nice one because there was so much to see in this area + includes visiting with friends in Muncie, IN.
10/13/2001 Pensacola – Bowling Green, Ky.
We’re enroute to our WWII reunion in Indianapolis. Left home at 7:35 with a cloud cover + a promise of showers.
Our usual Rt. 65 through Montgomery + Birmingham was without incidence. The traffic was moderate with most motorists seemingly going to the Bama game.
Bert’s on the computer + I’m keeping tuned to the Seattle – Cleve. play off. Cleve won by a huge score 17-2.
We drove around in the rain looking for a place to eat + settled for Bob Evans.
We watched some more baseball + retired early. We drove 500 mi. in 8-1/2 hr. Good day!
10/14/2001 Bowling Green, Ky. – Indianapolis
After a good breakfast at the motel we left in the rain at 8:30 driving leisurely along Rt. 65 through Ky. + Ind. admiring the beautiful fall foliage and well kept farms.
I drove through Louisville and although there was a lot of construction, it wasn’t difficult because it’s Sun. and there wasn’t a lot of traffic.
We stopped at Wendy’s outside of Indianapolis. It was the cleanest + newest one we’ve been in for a long time.
After checking in at the Hampton Inn downtown, we unpacked + Bert went shopping for undershirts at Parisian.
We went down to the Pennsylvania room on the second floor for some good old comradery. There were 38 from the squadron plus W’s kids + grandkids who were celebrating their son’s 55th b.d.
Our dinner held at the Magic Moments Restaurant was within walking distance + we had a magician for our entertainment after a delightful meal in the Penthouse – 9th floor with a beautiful view of the city.
I was a big winner at the card game - $1.25. Yeah!
10/15/01 Indianapolis
We boarded the bus for a tour of the city at 9 am + it was an excellent 3 hr. tour.
The highlights are as follows: 1) State Capitol which houses all three branches of government. It took 10 yrs to build + it’s limestone + marble structure + interior are spectacular. Our guide in the afternoon was from Tipp City + we exchanged small world stories including Wellsville.
2) Universities – Ind. U. – Purdue U. + the I. U. Medical Center along the White River.
3) Ind. World War Memorial
*4) Cong. Medal of Honor Memorial along White R.
5) James Whitcomb Riley Home
6) Benjamin Harrison Home
7) Lockerbie Market Place – Cobblestone St., antique gas lights, similar to Greenwich Village in N.Y.C. Boutiques, art galleries, sidewalk cafes, antique shops + ethnic restaurants.
8) Canal Walk – USS Indianapolis National Memorial
*This Memorial has 27 curved glass walls representing 15 conflicts from the Civil War.
Bert + I walked at least 2 miles in the afternoon (skipped lunch) + for dinner.
We had a chicken salad at the Malibu Restaurant for dinner, then cards with the ladies. Fun day.
10/16/01 Indianapolis
This was a full day of activities: the Eiteljorg Museum, lunch at Dodd’s Farm Restaurant, dinner at the Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre + farewells on the bus ride back to the people leaving early in the am.
Eiteljorg – a museum of Amer. Indians + Western Art. Harrison Eiteljorg lived to be 94 + died 3 yrs ago. It refects his interest in the Taos, N.M. area. He donated 1,000 pieces of art from Africa + S. Pacific – also land in Indy for schools, a church + hospital.
Dodd’s Rest. The bus driver stopped enroute to the restaurant to let us tour the beautiful Scottish Rite Cathedral – Gothic tower rises 212 ft. above the sidewalk + contains 54 bells from a 19# to 11,200# seven ft diam. Total wt of bells – 56,372#. A room inside houses all the Grand Masters’ pictures. The main entrance represents King Solomon’s Temple. Marble, Masonic emblems in walls – ballroom, auditorium, stage, + everything in 33 ft. representing Christ’s 33 yrs. Bronze chandelier center of auditorium weighs 2400#. It was completed in 1929.
Beef and Boards – The restaurant is in the round so that all 400 people have a view of the stage. We had a very nice buffet dinner + our seats were on the third level. We saw How to Succeed in Business + it was done very well – good voices!
Full day!
10/17/01 Indianapolis – Muncie
We had a nice leisurely breakfast with Bunny + Scotty W and Peg + Van Van H before checking out at 11 am. We arrived in Muncie about 1 pm + checked in with Carm + Walt M. They took us for a tour of Ball State U. after buying apples at the Minnetrista Apple Orchard. We saw + took pictures of “Dave Letterman’s Stadium,” the Ball Brothers columns, bell tower, alumni building, the flying Cardinals and toured the campus + town of Muncie.
Carm made a lovely meal for us. Pork chops on the grill, mashed potatoes, baked beans, rolls, salad, coffee and cream pie. Delicious.
We watched the Braves take the second game from Ariz. in the World Series play off. The score was 8-1, and that made up for yesterday’s loss of 2-0. Glavine pitched today + Maddux pitched yesterday.
We retired early – about 10:30.
Temp today in the 40’s, very windy.
10/18/01 Muncie – Cullman, Ala.
With frost on the van for the first time ever, we decided it was time to head South.
We left the M's at 8:15 and drove south on Rt. 69 to rt. 65 + 465 Bi-pass around Indianapolis.
We had lunch at Wendy’s and filled the tank in Bowling Green at $1.01 at Race-trak, then continued south with little traffic + good driving conditions. Bert drove through the big cities – Louisville + Nashville + I did a lot of the rest.
At Cullman, Ala. we stopped at a nicely furnished Comfort Inn using the $45 dollar coupon in the book we picked up at the Visitor Center. It’s a good thing we stopped here as I was so tired, I thought we were in Cullman, but it’s Athens, Ala. Very few people here + the room is large with 2 queen size beds, a microwave oven + small fridge.
We’re going to the Cracker Barrel for dinner. Drove 450 mi today + will go 350 tomorrow.
10/19/01
Athens, Ala. – Pensacola
What a beautiful day. Got off after a healthy breakfast at 8:15. We shed our jackets after a couple hours driving. In Bowling Green, Ky. we filled the tank because gas was just $1.01.
We skipped lunch, just had a delicious apple at a rest area.
I drove a lot today + got us through Birmingham without a hitch. Bert drove through Montgomery + at the rest area south of it, I drove the rest of the way.
We were coming into the home stretch + my co-pilot told me to go West + I always (?) follow directions, so we had to backtrack, take Exit 2, then follow I-10 to Exit 5 where we got off to go to pick up the mail at the post office.
We got home about 2:30, did laundry, put away the clothes, checked E-mail, had a quick TV dinners + watched the Braves-Ariz. game. We blew it – poor pitching + fielding. Score 5-1 Ariz. Boo-hoo!! (sad face) !!
10/13-19/2001: This is another 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] Reunion. We took these trips every fall + this was an especially nice one because there was so much to see in this area + includes visiting with friends in Muncie, IN.
10/13/2001 Pensacola – Bowling Green, Ky.
We’re enroute to our WWII reunion in Indianapolis. Left home at 7:35 with a cloud cover + a promise of showers.
Our usual Rt. 65 through Montgomery + Birmingham was without incidence. The traffic was moderate with most motorists seemingly going to the Bama game.
Bert’s on the computer + I’m keeping tuned to the Seattle – Cleve. play off. Cleve won by a huge score 17-2.
We drove around in the rain looking for a place to eat + settled for Bob Evans.
We watched some more baseball + retired early. We drove 500 mi. in 8-1/2 hr. Good day!
10/14/2001 Bowling Green, Ky. – Indianapolis
After a good breakfast at the motel we left in the rain at 8:30 driving leisurely along Rt. 65 through Ky. + Ind. admiring the beautiful fall foliage and well kept farms.
I drove through Louisville and although there was a lot of construction, it wasn’t difficult because it’s Sun. and there wasn’t a lot of traffic.
We stopped at Wendy’s outside of Indianapolis. It was the cleanest + newest one we’ve been in for a long time.
After checking in at the Hampton Inn downtown, we unpacked + Bert went shopping for undershirts at Parisian.
We went down to the Pennsylvania room on the second floor for some good old comradery. There were 38 from the squadron plus W’s kids + grandkids who were celebrating their son’s 55th b.d.
Our dinner held at the Magic Moments Restaurant was within walking distance + we had a magician for our entertainment after a delightful meal in the Penthouse – 9th floor with a beautiful view of the city.
I was a big winner at the card game - $1.25. Yeah!
10/15/01 Indianapolis
We boarded the bus for a tour of the city at 9 am + it was an excellent 3 hr. tour.
The highlights are as follows: 1) State Capitol which houses all three branches of government. It took 10 yrs to build + it’s limestone + marble structure + interior are spectacular. Our guide in the afternoon was from Tipp City + we exchanged small world stories including Wellsville.
2) Universities – Ind. U. – Purdue U. + the I. U. Medical Center along the White River.
3) Ind. World War Memorial
*4) Cong. Medal of Honor Memorial along White R.
5) James Whitcomb Riley Home
6) Benjamin Harrison Home
7) Lockerbie Market Place – Cobblestone St., antique gas lights, similar to Greenwich Village in N.Y.C. Boutiques, art galleries, sidewalk cafes, antique shops + ethnic restaurants.
8) Canal Walk – USS Indianapolis National Memorial
*This Memorial has 27 curved glass walls representing 15 conflicts from the Civil War.
Bert + I walked at least 2 miles in the afternoon (skipped lunch) + for dinner.
We had a chicken salad at the Malibu Restaurant for dinner, then cards with the ladies. Fun day.
10/16/01 Indianapolis
This was a full day of activities: the Eiteljorg Museum, lunch at Dodd’s Farm Restaurant, dinner at the Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre + farewells on the bus ride back to the people leaving early in the am.
Eiteljorg – a museum of Amer. Indians + Western Art. Harrison Eiteljorg lived to be 94 + died 3 yrs ago. It refects his interest in the Taos, N.M. area. He donated 1,000 pieces of art from Africa + S. Pacific – also land in Indy for schools, a church + hospital.
Dodd’s Rest. The bus driver stopped enroute to the restaurant to let us tour the beautiful Scottish Rite Cathedral – Gothic tower rises 212 ft. above the sidewalk + contains 54 bells from a 19# to 11,200# seven ft diam. Total wt of bells – 56,372#. A room inside houses all the Grand Masters’ pictures. The main entrance represents King Solomon’s Temple. Marble, Masonic emblems in walls – ballroom, auditorium, stage, + everything in 33 ft. representing Christ’s 33 yrs. Bronze chandelier center of auditorium weighs 2400#. It was completed in 1929.
Beef and Boards – The restaurant is in the round so that all 400 people have a view of the stage. We had a very nice buffet dinner + our seats were on the third level. We saw How to Succeed in Business + it was done very well – good voices!
Full day!
10/17/01 Indianapolis – Muncie
We had a nice leisurely breakfast with Bunny + Scotty W and Peg + Van Van H before checking out at 11 am. We arrived in Muncie about 1 pm + checked in with Carm + Walt M. They took us for a tour of Ball State U. after buying apples at the Minnetrista Apple Orchard. We saw + took pictures of “Dave Letterman’s Stadium,” the Ball Brothers columns, bell tower, alumni building, the flying Cardinals and toured the campus + town of Muncie.
Carm made a lovely meal for us. Pork chops on the grill, mashed potatoes, baked beans, rolls, salad, coffee and cream pie. Delicious.
We watched the Braves take the second game from Ariz. in the World Series play off. The score was 8-1, and that made up for yesterday’s loss of 2-0. Glavine pitched today + Maddux pitched yesterday.
We retired early – about 10:30.
Temp today in the 40’s, very windy.
10/18/01 Muncie – Cullman, Ala.
With frost on the van for the first time ever, we decided it was time to head South.
We left the M's at 8:15 and drove south on Rt. 69 to rt. 65 + 465 Bi-pass around Indianapolis.
We had lunch at Wendy’s and filled the tank in Bowling Green at $1.01 at Race-trak, then continued south with little traffic + good driving conditions. Bert drove through the big cities – Louisville + Nashville + I did a lot of the rest.
At Cullman, Ala. we stopped at a nicely furnished Comfort Inn using the $45 dollar coupon in the book we picked up at the Visitor Center. It’s a good thing we stopped here as I was so tired, I thought we were in Cullman, but it’s Athens, Ala. Very few people here + the room is large with 2 queen size beds, a microwave oven + small fridge.
We’re going to the Cracker Barrel for dinner. Drove 450 mi today + will go 350 tomorrow.
10/19/01
Athens, Ala. – Pensacola
What a beautiful day. Got off after a healthy breakfast at 8:15. We shed our jackets after a couple hours driving. In Bowling Green, Ky. we filled the tank because gas was just $1.01.
We skipped lunch, just had a delicious apple at a rest area.
I drove a lot today + got us through Birmingham without a hitch. Bert drove through Montgomery + at the rest area south of it, I drove the rest of the way.
We were coming into the home stretch + my co-pilot told me to go West + I always (?) follow directions, so we had to backtrack, take Exit 2, then follow I-10 to Exit 5 where we got off to go to pick up the mail at the post office.
We got home about 2:30, did laundry, put away the clothes, checked E-mail, had a quick TV dinners + watched the Braves-Ariz. game. We blew it – poor pitching + fielding. Score 5-1 Ariz. Boo-hoo!! (sad face) !!
Thursday, October 19, 2000
8th Combat Cargo Squadron Reunion in Milwaukee (2000)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
10/13/00 Pensacola - Athens
We left earlier than planned on the first leg of our trip to Milwaukee at 8 am. It was a cool morning but warmed up nicely mid-afternoon when we arrived in Athens – a total of 348 miles.
We started our journey to Milwaukee following the usual Rt. 65 through Montgomery + Birmingham, with some construction + delays as a result but still made good time to Athens.
Our room wasn’t ready so we drove around town, checked a few stores + rested (I) in our room. Bert checked our E-mail + happy to have a note from YK in Japan who’s coming to see us in the States in 2 wks. We are delighted he is going to spend a weekend with us the end of the month before going on to Orlando for a meeting!
After a good meal at Applebee’s which is just across from our *** Best Western, we watched a little TV and retired early.
10/14/2000 Athens, Ala. – Lebanon, Ind.
What a beautiful day! Got away at 8:30 after breakfast at the Best Western. The usual construction problems in Nashville delayed us about a half hour but I took advantage of it by practicing lip-syncing my song for our performance as the Andrews Sisters at the reunion while Bert gritted his teeth and tried to figure out an alternative route for our return trip.
We were impressed with the beautiful vivid fall foliage today especially in Ky. Where we saw a definite change in colors – vivid reds, orange + yellows.
It was great seeing Louisville looking so clean + prosperous as we crossed the beautiful Ohio R. Also good hearing WLW [Cincinnati radio station] coming through loud + clear.
Indianapolis + the surrounding farm land looked great. A lot of growth since we’d seen the capital + the homes, townhouses, condos + apartments all looked well planned + well-built.
Our motel (Holiday Inn Convention Center) in Lebanon was clean + comfortable but the pool, sauna + whirlpool were disappointing – too cold + crowded.
Good meal at Bob Evans – turkey for me + meatloaf for Bert.
10/15/2000 Lebanon, Ind. – Milwaukee, Wis.
The mileage was 782 when we checked out today.
We had a good night’s sleep + an interesting breakfast that wasn’t supposed to have been included in our discounted rate of $59. Anyhow, it was a complete breakfast + beautifully served in the dining room. So we were off to a good start + left at 8:30 for Milwaukee.
It was a pleasant drive all the way – not too much construction + we stayed on Rt. 65 until the big by-pass around Chicago. The rain that was predicted did not happen until a few minutes before we checked in at the Air Port Best Western + that was just a few drops.
Bert + I checked into our very comfortable room + after unpacking we checked out the hotel pool + sauna – very nice!
Met the ladies in our room + practiced our number "The Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," with the gals from the 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] Reunion, then met the rest of the group at the Hospitality Room before going to dinner in the dining room. Dinner was very nice. A beautiful spread arranged by the Bs – Joyce + Mel.
We concluded this beautiful day playing our famous game – 12 of us ladies, while the guys retold war stories.
10/16/2000 Milwaukee
What an interesting tour of this great lake city! Things I’ll remember and learned about Milwaukee, this 19th largest city in the U.S. from our tour are: the large number of Ethnic groups who live here. They have 9 festivals for the various nationalities + there are alot of Indian + Polish names. We toured the Bayview part of the port, the Polish flats, Basilica, St. Josephet, St. Stanislaus, which was brought brick by brick from the Post Office in Chicago. In addition we saw the 4 face clock, Marquette U., the viaducts, the Miller dome.
Then we went to the Brewery which covers a whole city block. We climbed the hill + sampled the various brews.
When we entered the Juneau Park area, we saw the beautiful mansions, the Wisconsin Lake Schooner the new addition to the Art Museum on the lake.
I hope I’ll never forget these beautiful sights!
A nice swim in the heated pool, a rehearsal for a skit, + games in the hospitality house completed a perfect day.
10/17/2000 Milwaukee
Our tour today was a trip to the Mitchell Park Conservatory where we saw the various unusual plants in three domes [conservatories] and then to the Reiman Publication Center and Greendale.
The three domes housed the show dome filled with a variety of unusual mums, the arid dome which plants native to Sonoran Northern Mexico, South America, Madagascar, African, + Canary Island. The Tropical Dome looked more familiar as we see many of these plants in Fl.
The domes are 80’ x 120’, climate controlled, and conoidal rather than geodesic.
The Reiman Publishing Co. was started in the 1930’s + they publish a no. of magazines + books.
We toured all the shops in Glendale, bought some candy, a book + a card, then headed back to the motel.
Had lunch, swam, + practiced our skit.
Our dinner + entertainment were great. Even had time with the girls to play our game. Performed our skit and it was a great success.
10/18/2000 Milwaukee - Elizabethtown, Ky.
Mileage 1029 from Pensacola
After breakfast, we loaded the car and were on our way at 8:30.
I wasn’t a great help with the driving today as I didn’t sleep well – too much excitement with the “Boogie Woogie Bugling” last night.
Our usual routes were much the same as far as traffic is concerned – heavy in the Chicago, Indianapolis + Louisville areas.
We stopped in Lebanon, Ind. + made a reservation for the Best Western in Elizabethtown, Ky. We arrived here after 8 hrs on the road + checked in to a very clean, comfortable room just off the highway at Exit 91 on Rt. 65.
We hadn’t ever tried Steak ‘n’ Shake, so decided to stop there after driving through town where there were many new restaurants. It was hearty + nothing fancy.
We’re on Eastern time here so it’s a good excuse to retire early!
Mileage today 435 miles.
Great!
10/19/2000: Elizabethtown, Ky. - Pensacola
After a good night’s sleep and breakfast at one of the best ** motels we’ve ever had, we were on the road at 6:30 Central Time. Everything went well driving home taking turns at the wheel.
Bert drove the first leg of the trip to Nashville, but I drove through Nashville taking the Briley Parkway with Bert navigating + we did fine – just got lost once + didn’t lose much time! Quite an accomplishment.
We traded off the driving throughout the day. So it wasn’t a tough trip.
We lost a little time in Birmingham, taking a wrong exit to a Wendy’s, but that wasn’t bad. We took the next one + had we been a half hour earlier, we would have followed an AARP bus load of people which would’ve been a long wait.
Bert drove from Birmingham to Montgomery + I drove home, + the mileage for the entire trip was 1,033, just 4 miles longer than our trip to Milwaukee.
Everything at home was fine + we’re so grateful for the wonderful trip + our many blessings!
10/13/00 Pensacola - Athens
We left earlier than planned on the first leg of our trip to Milwaukee at 8 am. It was a cool morning but warmed up nicely mid-afternoon when we arrived in Athens – a total of 348 miles.
We started our journey to Milwaukee following the usual Rt. 65 through Montgomery + Birmingham, with some construction + delays as a result but still made good time to Athens.
Our room wasn’t ready so we drove around town, checked a few stores + rested (I) in our room. Bert checked our E-mail + happy to have a note from YK in Japan who’s coming to see us in the States in 2 wks. We are delighted he is going to spend a weekend with us the end of the month before going on to Orlando for a meeting!
After a good meal at Applebee’s which is just across from our *** Best Western, we watched a little TV and retired early.
10/14/2000 Athens, Ala. – Lebanon, Ind.
What a beautiful day! Got away at 8:30 after breakfast at the Best Western. The usual construction problems in Nashville delayed us about a half hour but I took advantage of it by practicing lip-syncing my song for our performance as the Andrews Sisters at the reunion while Bert gritted his teeth and tried to figure out an alternative route for our return trip.
We were impressed with the beautiful vivid fall foliage today especially in Ky. Where we saw a definite change in colors – vivid reds, orange + yellows.
It was great seeing Louisville looking so clean + prosperous as we crossed the beautiful Ohio R. Also good hearing WLW [Cincinnati radio station] coming through loud + clear.
Indianapolis + the surrounding farm land looked great. A lot of growth since we’d seen the capital + the homes, townhouses, condos + apartments all looked well planned + well-built.
Our motel (Holiday Inn Convention Center) in Lebanon was clean + comfortable but the pool, sauna + whirlpool were disappointing – too cold + crowded.
Good meal at Bob Evans – turkey for me + meatloaf for Bert.
10/15/2000 Lebanon, Ind. – Milwaukee, Wis.
The mileage was 782 when we checked out today.
We had a good night’s sleep + an interesting breakfast that wasn’t supposed to have been included in our discounted rate of $59. Anyhow, it was a complete breakfast + beautifully served in the dining room. So we were off to a good start + left at 8:30 for Milwaukee.
It was a pleasant drive all the way – not too much construction + we stayed on Rt. 65 until the big by-pass around Chicago. The rain that was predicted did not happen until a few minutes before we checked in at the Air Port Best Western + that was just a few drops.
Bert + I checked into our very comfortable room + after unpacking we checked out the hotel pool + sauna – very nice!
Met the ladies in our room + practiced our number "The Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," with the gals from the 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] Reunion, then met the rest of the group at the Hospitality Room before going to dinner in the dining room. Dinner was very nice. A beautiful spread arranged by the Bs – Joyce + Mel.
We concluded this beautiful day playing our famous game – 12 of us ladies, while the guys retold war stories.
10/16/2000 Milwaukee
What an interesting tour of this great lake city! Things I’ll remember and learned about Milwaukee, this 19th largest city in the U.S. from our tour are: the large number of Ethnic groups who live here. They have 9 festivals for the various nationalities + there are alot of Indian + Polish names. We toured the Bayview part of the port, the Polish flats, Basilica, St. Josephet, St. Stanislaus, which was brought brick by brick from the Post Office in Chicago. In addition we saw the 4 face clock, Marquette U., the viaducts, the Miller dome.
Then we went to the Brewery which covers a whole city block. We climbed the hill + sampled the various brews.
When we entered the Juneau Park area, we saw the beautiful mansions, the Wisconsin Lake Schooner the new addition to the Art Museum on the lake.
I hope I’ll never forget these beautiful sights!
A nice swim in the heated pool, a rehearsal for a skit, + games in the hospitality house completed a perfect day.
10/17/2000 Milwaukee
Our tour today was a trip to the Mitchell Park Conservatory where we saw the various unusual plants in three domes [conservatories] and then to the Reiman Publication Center and Greendale.
The three domes housed the show dome filled with a variety of unusual mums, the arid dome which plants native to Sonoran Northern Mexico, South America, Madagascar, African, + Canary Island. The Tropical Dome looked more familiar as we see many of these plants in Fl.
The domes are 80’ x 120’, climate controlled, and conoidal rather than geodesic.
The Reiman Publishing Co. was started in the 1930’s + they publish a no. of magazines + books.
We toured all the shops in Glendale, bought some candy, a book + a card, then headed back to the motel.
Had lunch, swam, + practiced our skit.
Our dinner + entertainment were great. Even had time with the girls to play our game. Performed our skit and it was a great success.
10/18/2000 Milwaukee - Elizabethtown, Ky.
Mileage 1029 from Pensacola
After breakfast, we loaded the car and were on our way at 8:30.
I wasn’t a great help with the driving today as I didn’t sleep well – too much excitement with the “Boogie Woogie Bugling” last night.
Our usual routes were much the same as far as traffic is concerned – heavy in the Chicago, Indianapolis + Louisville areas.
We stopped in Lebanon, Ind. + made a reservation for the Best Western in Elizabethtown, Ky. We arrived here after 8 hrs on the road + checked in to a very clean, comfortable room just off the highway at Exit 91 on Rt. 65.
We hadn’t ever tried Steak ‘n’ Shake, so decided to stop there after driving through town where there were many new restaurants. It was hearty + nothing fancy.
We’re on Eastern time here so it’s a good excuse to retire early!
Mileage today 435 miles.
Great!
10/19/2000: Elizabethtown, Ky. - Pensacola
After a good night’s sleep and breakfast at one of the best ** motels we’ve ever had, we were on the road at 6:30 Central Time. Everything went well driving home taking turns at the wheel.
Bert drove the first leg of the trip to Nashville, but I drove through Nashville taking the Briley Parkway with Bert navigating + we did fine – just got lost once + didn’t lose much time! Quite an accomplishment.
We traded off the driving throughout the day. So it wasn’t a tough trip.
We lost a little time in Birmingham, taking a wrong exit to a Wendy’s, but that wasn’t bad. We took the next one + had we been a half hour earlier, we would have followed an AARP bus load of people which would’ve been a long wait.
Bert drove from Birmingham to Montgomery + I drove home, + the mileage for the entire trip was 1,033, just 4 miles longer than our trip to Milwaukee.
Everything at home was fine + we’re so grateful for the wonderful trip + our many blessings!
Monday, July 3, 2000
Wellsville Reunion (2000)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
6/20-26/2000
6-20-2000 Pensacola- Brentwood, Tenn.
We had good driving weather in our usual Montgomery - Birmingham - Nashville route, leaving home at 7 am, arriving here at Mainstay Suites at 2:45 to spend the night. This is an attractive motel + our room is furnished nicely – kitchen with frig, stove, microwave + desk for the lap top.
We did our usual exercises in the pool, then had some appetizers in the lounge before going to dinner at a nearby Ruby Tuesdays.
I forgot to pack all our medicines so we made s trip to CVS for our vitamins + my glucosamine/chondroitin.
We made a reservation in Springfield at the Ramada Inn for the next three days.
Bert checked mail on the computer + we retired early.
Lovely day.
6-21-2000 Brentwood – Springfield
We lucked out on the weather today + reached S’fld mid afternoon without a hitch.
The Ramada Limited in South Springfield is our residence for 3 nights so we unpacked the van, took a swim in the indoor pool, showered + went to dinner at Macorra’s. What good Italian food. We’d been here years before + Bert luckily remembered where it was.
We drove around the old neighborhood where we once lived in ’49-51 + noted all the changes. Our old address 836-1/2 S. Limestone St. Rear is now the athletic field for South High.
I talked with Mary Jane B + we made plans to go to lunch tomorrow.
This was a fun day + we’re so thankful we made it through Nashville traffic with no problems in spite of all the traffic from 7:40-8:30 a.m.
Our mileage is 814 mi. from Pensacola.
We spent some time visiting Mary Jane B + friend.
6/22-6/223 2000 Springfield
These two days at the Ramada Limited have been fun.
Thurs. Mary Jane Ballentine + friend, Bob, came over + took us to the Country Club for lunch + a tour of the area.
We had dinner at a winery with Wanda + Ry G, then went to their home afterward where we enjoyed Dairy Queen sundaes on their patio + caught up on all our news.
After breakfast at the motel Fri. we toured the U.D. [University of Dayton] campus, then stopped at the Air Force Museum at Wright/Patterson AF Base + what a magnificent restoration of planes from the Wright Brothers to the latest aircraft. “Be Still My Heart” Bert cried as we passed the famous C-47.
Our lunch at the Officers Club was relaxing + delicious in the basement Wings room. From there we checked the BX + filled the tank with gas at $1.82 gal. Later that afternoon, the price dropped all over town to $1.77. (sad face!!)
Dinner with Lou + George G at the club was reminiscing time from the 50’s – Great people!!
6/24-6/25 Springfield – Rocky River
We checked out of the Ramada at 9:30 + were in Hilliard to see the Us an hour later. Edith took us to lunch at their beautiful dining room at the Heritage. The Arbors is where we visited Ron who’s in bad shape.
We arrived at the McNs in Rocky River after driving through a drizzle, then heavy rain into Cleveland, Had time for a shower/shampoo before going to Sue L’s beautiful new home in Avon for cocktails. Sue, Warren S, Ray + Marie McN + we went to Fratello’s for a delicious dinner where we “dined” for a delightful evening.
On Sun. we went to church + what fun seeing all the old friends, too many to mention. The children performed for us, all 165 children, from St. Christopher’s + Rocky River Presby. As a culmination of their Bible School.
We had brunch with Shirley + Bob S + got caught up with their news.
The Es entertained us with dinner + cocktails + it was great seeing Helen Sm, Tom’s mother Dorothy, as well as Anne + Tom E all doing so well.
6/26/2000 Rocky River
This was a catch-up day. After breakfast we took a nice walk in metropolitan Park, then checked out all the local area + ended up at Westgate Mall shopping for a pair of white slacks. Found a pr of Liz’s at Dillards, then had a bite to eat + went back to McNs to freshen up.
At 5 pm we went out to Ks, Phyllis + Dan + from there to the White Oaks for a really good meal with orange roughy being our entrée. (We ate too much, so I had to pass on the dessert Phyllis made.) They celebrated their 50th last week + we shared albums.
McNs were still up but their darling 6 yr old granddaughter had gone home. What a cutie. She promised to be a pen pal! We’ll see.
6/27/2000 Rocky River - Bath
We had to bid adieu to Marie + Ray after breakfast, and head South. We didn’t have far to go far – just down to I-71 to Strongsville to see Ardath + John Sanders – Bert’s cousin.
They took us to Don’s Pomeroy House for lunch – a beautiful restored home which Ardath + the Historical Society saved from being destroyed. Had a very nice lunch + visit with them, and left mid afternoon on the next leg of our trip to Jim + Dottie G’s in Bath, our Marco Island friends.
We had a lot of catching up to do since many events have taken place since we left Marco Island mid-March + they didn’t head home until May.
We’d all decided it was time to cut calories, wo we feasted on lean thick skinless, boneless pork chops which did on the grill, pot. au gratin, salad + Dottie’s delicious home made berry pie. We talked for hours; they told us about their recent trip to Italy + Stevan’s wedding in Conn. Lovely day.
6/28/2000 Bath, Ohio
Our entertainment at breakfast was watching the doe polish off just about all of Dottie's hollyhocks! Then we took a leisurely mile + a half walk in their lovely neighborhood
After lunch we were visited by a wild turkey wandering through the yard followed by her eleven lively babies. We watched them until they were out of sight, but they’ll be back tomorrow so we may see them again before we leave for the reunion in Wellsville.
While I was napping, the local doe + her babies came into the yard but I missed them. Maybe they’ll return tomorrow before we leave for Wellsville!
In the evening we went over to Beverly + Woody Ws for a great “picnic” on their deck. Not only was it a delicacy eating all her specially prepared foods fresh from their garden, but beautifully served. They are one interesting couple we enjoy during the winter months at Marco + a delight to be entertain.
6/29/2000 Bath – Wellsville
The deer returned + I got a close-up view. We can almost forgive them for eating Dottie’s hollyhox – they’re so cute. We left the G's after a very hearty breakfast of pancakes + bacon – delicious!
After leaving Bath, we got on Rts 77 + 76 before coming down Rt. 45 into Salem + Lisbon.
Mary + Gene were waiting for us + we had a few hours of "catching up" before leaving for dinner at the Fire House which we celebrated with the classes of ’44 + ’45. We had a nice meal of roast chicken/dressing, salad, pot. + gr. beans plus coconut cream pie for dessert.
It was nice visiting afterwards with Jeanne Ann + Bill R at Mary C’s. We didn’t stay long as we wanted to have more time visiting with Mary + Gene.
Mary + I talked for hours “catching up” before retiring past midnight.
6/30/2000 Wellsville
This was a relaxing morning with a late breakfast. We left for the reunion at 2:00 and spent most of the afternoon at the River Museum and Alumni Center.
The museum is over 100 years old and beautifully maintained. It houses Civil War relics, pictures that date back to the turn of the century. Pictures of Grandpa Alton, my dad, Uncle Paul + Gene Jarvis were especially interesting.
Rather than drive back to Mary + Gene’s, we stayed in town for the parade. What fun. I was drafted to ride in the parade in Vivian B’s convertible to represent the class of ’43 along with others: Pinky H P, Fitzy (marching ahead with Richard C) + Vince C. We picked up Vic McI + rode to 5th St. Ended up at the Alumni River Hotel.
We walked up town to the gazebo + saw lots of people.
The sunset was magnificent!
7/1/2000 Wellsville
We started the day’s activities at the Alumni Hall. They had a lovely brunch + and saw lots of friends; the Rs – Ann + Bill + spouses – looking great! At our table were Milly + the McIs. We honored all the scholarship recipients + they were so grateful for their scholarships made possible by our generous donors.
In the evening we met in the high school gym for our all class reunion. We had a small group from our class but there were 731 total graduates in all from ’57-’27 in the gym + the rest + younger ones in MacDonald gym.
7/2/2000: Wellsville - Bristol, Va.
We left Mary + Gene’s after a hearty breakfast at 8 am + drove rt. 7 to Wheeling, then Rt. 250 to Fairmont, W. Va. We stopped at a pretty town, Mannington, at MacDonald’s for coffee. Great stop! We didn’t make good time, but the rolling hills provided beautiful scenery. I-79 was an interesting route winding through hilly farming + mining country + follows a course of the West Fork + Elk Rivers. We crossed the Kanawha R. on Rt. 19 + took Rt. 77, the W. Va. Turnpike, to Wytheville where we made a reservation for tonight at a Comfort Inn in Bristol, Va. We’d planned to drive farther, but after a long day and lots of partying at the reunion, we decided to turn in after 420 miles + get a good night’s rest. On the last lap of our drive today on I-81, we traveled over sharply rolling to hilly, partially wooded highlands devoted to agriculture + livestock production.
We saw a deer along our route today as well as a fawn, and a flock of wild turkeys.
Dinner at a nearby restaurant, Fishtales, was fair – just too much fried food.
7/3/2000 Bristol, V. - Pensacola
We were up early, packed, breakfasted + on our way by 8:00 am. Gas was cheap so we filled the tank at $1.47. I drove the first leg of the trip, then Bert took the wheel through Knoxville. It really wasn’t bad for a holiday weekend. I took my turn through Chattanooga + was surprised + delighted that there really wasn’t too much traffic or construction. Most of the drivers were courteous even in Ala. We took turns driving.
In Birmingham we stopped at a Cracker Barrel + had our main meal mid afternoon, and drove on through Montgomery + were home about 7:00 pm.
I forgot to mention that we stopped in Ga. + got gas at $1.39 as it’s always cheaper there.
When we unloaded the van, we checked the mileage and our total trip read 2,444 miles.
We unpacked, watched a little of the Braves game + when they lost 17-1 to Montreal, it was time to go to bed + thank God for a wonderful, safe trip!
6/20-26/2000
6-20-2000 Pensacola- Brentwood, Tenn.
We had good driving weather in our usual Montgomery - Birmingham - Nashville route, leaving home at 7 am, arriving here at Mainstay Suites at 2:45 to spend the night. This is an attractive motel + our room is furnished nicely – kitchen with frig, stove, microwave + desk for the lap top.
We did our usual exercises in the pool, then had some appetizers in the lounge before going to dinner at a nearby Ruby Tuesdays.
I forgot to pack all our medicines so we made s trip to CVS for our vitamins + my glucosamine/chondroitin.
We made a reservation in Springfield at the Ramada Inn for the next three days.
Bert checked mail on the computer + we retired early.
Lovely day.
6-21-2000 Brentwood – Springfield
We lucked out on the weather today + reached S’fld mid afternoon without a hitch.
The Ramada Limited in South Springfield is our residence for 3 nights so we unpacked the van, took a swim in the indoor pool, showered + went to dinner at Macorra’s. What good Italian food. We’d been here years before + Bert luckily remembered where it was.
We drove around the old neighborhood where we once lived in ’49-51 + noted all the changes. Our old address 836-1/2 S. Limestone St. Rear is now the athletic field for South High.
I talked with Mary Jane B + we made plans to go to lunch tomorrow.
This was a fun day + we’re so thankful we made it through Nashville traffic with no problems in spite of all the traffic from 7:40-8:30 a.m.
Our mileage is 814 mi. from Pensacola.
We spent some time visiting Mary Jane B + friend.
6/22-6/223 2000 Springfield
These two days at the Ramada Limited have been fun.
Thurs. Mary Jane Ballentine + friend, Bob, came over + took us to the Country Club for lunch + a tour of the area.
We had dinner at a winery with Wanda + Ry G, then went to their home afterward where we enjoyed Dairy Queen sundaes on their patio + caught up on all our news.
After breakfast at the motel Fri. we toured the U.D. [University of Dayton] campus, then stopped at the Air Force Museum at Wright/Patterson AF Base + what a magnificent restoration of planes from the Wright Brothers to the latest aircraft. “Be Still My Heart” Bert cried as we passed the famous C-47.
Our lunch at the Officers Club was relaxing + delicious in the basement Wings room. From there we checked the BX + filled the tank with gas at $1.82 gal. Later that afternoon, the price dropped all over town to $1.77. (sad face!!)
Dinner with Lou + George G at the club was reminiscing time from the 50’s – Great people!!
6/24-6/25 Springfield – Rocky River
We checked out of the Ramada at 9:30 + were in Hilliard to see the Us an hour later. Edith took us to lunch at their beautiful dining room at the Heritage. The Arbors is where we visited Ron who’s in bad shape.
We arrived at the McNs in Rocky River after driving through a drizzle, then heavy rain into Cleveland, Had time for a shower/shampoo before going to Sue L’s beautiful new home in Avon for cocktails. Sue, Warren S, Ray + Marie McN + we went to Fratello’s for a delicious dinner where we “dined” for a delightful evening.
On Sun. we went to church + what fun seeing all the old friends, too many to mention. The children performed for us, all 165 children, from St. Christopher’s + Rocky River Presby. As a culmination of their Bible School.
We had brunch with Shirley + Bob S + got caught up with their news.
The Es entertained us with dinner + cocktails + it was great seeing Helen Sm, Tom’s mother Dorothy, as well as Anne + Tom E all doing so well.
6/26/2000 Rocky River
This was a catch-up day. After breakfast we took a nice walk in metropolitan Park, then checked out all the local area + ended up at Westgate Mall shopping for a pair of white slacks. Found a pr of Liz’s at Dillards, then had a bite to eat + went back to McNs to freshen up.
At 5 pm we went out to Ks, Phyllis + Dan + from there to the White Oaks for a really good meal with orange roughy being our entrée. (We ate too much, so I had to pass on the dessert Phyllis made.) They celebrated their 50th last week + we shared albums.
McNs were still up but their darling 6 yr old granddaughter had gone home. What a cutie. She promised to be a pen pal! We’ll see.
6/27/2000 Rocky River - Bath
We had to bid adieu to Marie + Ray after breakfast, and head South. We didn’t have far to go far – just down to I-71 to Strongsville to see Ardath + John Sanders – Bert’s cousin.
They took us to Don’s Pomeroy House for lunch – a beautiful restored home which Ardath + the Historical Society saved from being destroyed. Had a very nice lunch + visit with them, and left mid afternoon on the next leg of our trip to Jim + Dottie G’s in Bath, our Marco Island friends.
We had a lot of catching up to do since many events have taken place since we left Marco Island mid-March + they didn’t head home until May.
We’d all decided it was time to cut calories, wo we feasted on lean thick skinless, boneless pork chops which did on the grill, pot. au gratin, salad + Dottie’s delicious home made berry pie. We talked for hours; they told us about their recent trip to Italy + Stevan’s wedding in Conn. Lovely day.
6/28/2000 Bath, Ohio
Our entertainment at breakfast was watching the doe polish off just about all of Dottie's hollyhocks! Then we took a leisurely mile + a half walk in their lovely neighborhood
After lunch we were visited by a wild turkey wandering through the yard followed by her eleven lively babies. We watched them until they were out of sight, but they’ll be back tomorrow so we may see them again before we leave for the reunion in Wellsville.
While I was napping, the local doe + her babies came into the yard but I missed them. Maybe they’ll return tomorrow before we leave for Wellsville!
In the evening we went over to Beverly + Woody Ws for a great “picnic” on their deck. Not only was it a delicacy eating all her specially prepared foods fresh from their garden, but beautifully served. They are one interesting couple we enjoy during the winter months at Marco + a delight to be entertain.
6/29/2000 Bath – Wellsville
The deer returned + I got a close-up view. We can almost forgive them for eating Dottie’s hollyhox – they’re so cute. We left the G's after a very hearty breakfast of pancakes + bacon – delicious!
After leaving Bath, we got on Rts 77 + 76 before coming down Rt. 45 into Salem + Lisbon.
Mary + Gene were waiting for us + we had a few hours of "catching up" before leaving for dinner at the Fire House which we celebrated with the classes of ’44 + ’45. We had a nice meal of roast chicken/dressing, salad, pot. + gr. beans plus coconut cream pie for dessert.
It was nice visiting afterwards with Jeanne Ann + Bill R at Mary C’s. We didn’t stay long as we wanted to have more time visiting with Mary + Gene.
Mary + I talked for hours “catching up” before retiring past midnight.
6/30/2000 Wellsville
This was a relaxing morning with a late breakfast. We left for the reunion at 2:00 and spent most of the afternoon at the River Museum and Alumni Center.
The museum is over 100 years old and beautifully maintained. It houses Civil War relics, pictures that date back to the turn of the century. Pictures of Grandpa Alton, my dad, Uncle Paul + Gene Jarvis were especially interesting.
Rather than drive back to Mary + Gene’s, we stayed in town for the parade. What fun. I was drafted to ride in the parade in Vivian B’s convertible to represent the class of ’43 along with others: Pinky H P, Fitzy (marching ahead with Richard C) + Vince C. We picked up Vic McI + rode to 5th St. Ended up at the Alumni River Hotel.
We walked up town to the gazebo + saw lots of people.
The sunset was magnificent!
7/1/2000 Wellsville
We started the day’s activities at the Alumni Hall. They had a lovely brunch + and saw lots of friends; the Rs – Ann + Bill + spouses – looking great! At our table were Milly + the McIs. We honored all the scholarship recipients + they were so grateful for their scholarships made possible by our generous donors.
In the evening we met in the high school gym for our all class reunion. We had a small group from our class but there were 731 total graduates in all from ’57-’27 in the gym + the rest + younger ones in MacDonald gym.
7/2/2000: Wellsville - Bristol, Va.
We left Mary + Gene’s after a hearty breakfast at 8 am + drove rt. 7 to Wheeling, then Rt. 250 to Fairmont, W. Va. We stopped at a pretty town, Mannington, at MacDonald’s for coffee. Great stop! We didn’t make good time, but the rolling hills provided beautiful scenery. I-79 was an interesting route winding through hilly farming + mining country + follows a course of the West Fork + Elk Rivers. We crossed the Kanawha R. on Rt. 19 + took Rt. 77, the W. Va. Turnpike, to Wytheville where we made a reservation for tonight at a Comfort Inn in Bristol, Va. We’d planned to drive farther, but after a long day and lots of partying at the reunion, we decided to turn in after 420 miles + get a good night’s rest. On the last lap of our drive today on I-81, we traveled over sharply rolling to hilly, partially wooded highlands devoted to agriculture + livestock production.
We saw a deer along our route today as well as a fawn, and a flock of wild turkeys.
Dinner at a nearby restaurant, Fishtales, was fair – just too much fried food.
7/3/2000 Bristol, V. - Pensacola
We were up early, packed, breakfasted + on our way by 8:00 am. Gas was cheap so we filled the tank at $1.47. I drove the first leg of the trip, then Bert took the wheel through Knoxville. It really wasn’t bad for a holiday weekend. I took my turn through Chattanooga + was surprised + delighted that there really wasn’t too much traffic or construction. Most of the drivers were courteous even in Ala. We took turns driving.
In Birmingham we stopped at a Cracker Barrel + had our main meal mid afternoon, and drove on through Montgomery + were home about 7:00 pm.
I forgot to mention that we stopped in Ga. + got gas at $1.39 as it’s always cheaper there.
When we unloaded the van, we checked the mileage and our total trip read 2,444 miles.
We unpacked, watched a little of the Braves game + when they lost 17-1 to Montreal, it was time to go to bed + thank God for a wonderful, safe trip!
Wednesday, September 15, 1999
8th Combat Cargo Squadron Reunion in Seattle (1999)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
Because it is Bert's birthday, I'll highlight our events with the 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron]. I'm not going to write about every reunion we have had with them because you can read about them in the diary.
9-10-99 Pensacola – Seattle
Our cab arrived on time at 11:30 and we boarded the MD-11 at 12:50 for Atlanta on a full flight. It was very smooth sailing + we went by cart to our departure for Seattle using the escalator + train amid masses of people. The plane was waiting for us + we left at 4:00 on the 757. That’s 3:00 our time, so we set our watches back two hours for Pacific time, arriving at approx. 7 pm – another good flight with very accommodating attendants – even made me a glass of iced tea! The meal was delicious – I had steak + Bert had chicken. Good fare for Delta.
We caught the Express bus to the Best Western Executive Inn + got a birds-eye view of the city on our half hour ride to the hotel.
We had a message from Bill W to come to the hospitality room + there we greeted the Cs, Van Hs, and had a nice visit + a night cap before retiring in our room across the hall for a good night’s sleep.
Glad to be here!
9/11/1999
Happy Birthday, Bert! What a beautiful day to celebrate. We were up early to catch the Victoria Clipper to Victoria at 8:30. It was a smooth two hour trip on a fast moving catamaran which is the fastest ship of its kind in the country – North America. We had a tour of this incredibly beautiful city with the highlight of the trip to the lovely Butchart Gardens. Our bus driver was a knowledgeable young guy with a great sense of humor. We had several hours to tour the gardens, then we boarded the bus for another hour’s tour + then had some time to take in the sights. We were pretty tired at this point, so found a comfortable restaurant where the eight of us enjoyed a light meal at the Spaghetti House Factory. Our return trip to Seattle was smooth sailing + we arrived back at the hotel about 8:30. We left the Cs + Van Hs + walked to McDonalds for a snack, then retired after another full day. What fun!!!
9-12-99 Seattle
Had breakfast downstairs in the dining room + then took a cab to the First Presbyterian Church with Peg Van H, Doris W, + Frank P. The title of the sermon was "Faith Is a Calling" [as in the prophetic call to Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:1-18] + the minister, Rev. H made us write this message "A disciple is a person moving from belief to faith." When God speaks, then faith begins, and the scriptures are from 1 Sam 3:1-18, Mark 3:13-19, John 7:37-38, + 1 Pet. 2:9-10.
We had such a large breakfast, we skipped lunch, then practiced our skit for Tues. night. The Hospitality Room was open at 4 o’clock + most of the people were there to greet each other. Our buffet meal was outstanding with every imaginable choice of fruit, vegetables, cheeses – crackers, chicken, ham + breads. The bar was open + everyone was happy seeing each other + no one in the group was “over indulged”!
The gals – all 12 of us – gathered round the table to play cards. The cost is 15¢ to play + we played at least an hr. + a half – fun!
Retired after another full day to get ready for a city tour tomorrow.
The kids sent Bert E-mail birthday messages - cute!
9-13-99 Seattle
Our morning began at 9 am for a 3 hour tour of the city. Well first we had a delicious breakfast at 7 am in the hotel, so we were all set for the complete tour of beautiful scenic Seattle today. The highlight was the Pike Place Market. We also enjoyed seeing the Magnolia + Queen Anne Hill areas of gorgeous homes complete with manicured lawns, gorgeous flowers and sculptured plants/shrubs. These areas had a variety of deciduous trees as well as an abundance of Douglas firs. We crossed the floating bridge into the Bellevue area + back across another bridge.
In the afternoon, Bert and I took the monorail to the shopping area then on down the hill to see the rest of the city + the market. It comprises acres of fresh produce, flowers, bakeries, boutiques, galleries, arts + craft booths. We had grilled tuna salad sandwiches that were delicious at Cutters Bayhouse along the waterfront – lovely.
Cards in the evening with the gals completed another complete day!
9-14-99 Seattle
We packed as much into this final day as possible. We kept our eyes on the weather channel tracking as Hurricane Floyd is threatening the east coast of Fl. + we wanted to make sure Kents are okay.
We spent the morning at the aquarium with the Van Hs. We enjoyed that + it was a special treat seeing the divers go into the tanks to feed the fresh + salt water fish.
In the afternoon we went to the Science Museum what a treat. The Butterfly House was outstanding. The cocoons are shipped from Malaysia, Philippines, + Cost Rica + they cost $3 each in shipments of 500 every two weeks.
We spent the evening bidding farewell to all our 8th Combat buddies after dinner as the festivities are over! We surprised the guests with our performance by the 8th Combat Song – Doris W + her daughter, Nancy, Jan C, + Peg Van H. I accompanied them on the melodien. Fun evening. Full day! Good-bye! Farewell!!
9-15-99 Seattle - Pensacola
The Shuttle Express picked us up at 7:00 + got us to the airport at 7:30 for our flight home.
We boarded the huge 767 at 8:25 + were airborn at 8:35. Had a good warm breakfast, made great time to Atlanta in beautiful weather, and arrived in Atlanta at 4:05 Eastern Time. The train got us over to Gate B in time for a 15 min. breather before boarding our flight to Pensacola at 5:30 + we landed in Pensacola at 5:35 (Central Time).
That dear friend Dick L surprised is by meeting us as we’d planned to call Jim Y because this is choir practice night. Dick + Shirley made it on time for church [for choir practice]. Great friends!
We called Mike + Kent + everyone is at home safe + sound from Hurricane Floyd. Gracias!
Retired early after a wonderful trip!!
Because it is Bert's birthday, I'll highlight our events with the 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron]. I'm not going to write about every reunion we have had with them because you can read about them in the diary.
9-10-99 Pensacola – Seattle
Our cab arrived on time at 11:30 and we boarded the MD-11 at 12:50 for Atlanta on a full flight. It was very smooth sailing + we went by cart to our departure for Seattle using the escalator + train amid masses of people. The plane was waiting for us + we left at 4:00 on the 757. That’s 3:00 our time, so we set our watches back two hours for Pacific time, arriving at approx. 7 pm – another good flight with very accommodating attendants – even made me a glass of iced tea! The meal was delicious – I had steak + Bert had chicken. Good fare for Delta.
We caught the Express bus to the Best Western Executive Inn + got a birds-eye view of the city on our half hour ride to the hotel.
We had a message from Bill W to come to the hospitality room + there we greeted the Cs, Van Hs, and had a nice visit + a night cap before retiring in our room across the hall for a good night’s sleep.
Glad to be here!
9/11/1999
Happy Birthday, Bert! What a beautiful day to celebrate. We were up early to catch the Victoria Clipper to Victoria at 8:30. It was a smooth two hour trip on a fast moving catamaran which is the fastest ship of its kind in the country – North America. We had a tour of this incredibly beautiful city with the highlight of the trip to the lovely Butchart Gardens. Our bus driver was a knowledgeable young guy with a great sense of humor. We had several hours to tour the gardens, then we boarded the bus for another hour’s tour + then had some time to take in the sights. We were pretty tired at this point, so found a comfortable restaurant where the eight of us enjoyed a light meal at the Spaghetti House Factory. Our return trip to Seattle was smooth sailing + we arrived back at the hotel about 8:30. We left the Cs + Van Hs + walked to McDonalds for a snack, then retired after another full day. What fun!!!
9-12-99 Seattle
Had breakfast downstairs in the dining room + then took a cab to the First Presbyterian Church with Peg Van H, Doris W, + Frank P. The title of the sermon was "Faith Is a Calling" [as in the prophetic call to Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:1-18] + the minister, Rev. H made us write this message "A disciple is a person moving from belief to faith." When God speaks, then faith begins, and the scriptures are from 1 Sam 3:1-18, Mark 3:13-19, John 7:37-38, + 1 Pet. 2:9-10.
We had such a large breakfast, we skipped lunch, then practiced our skit for Tues. night. The Hospitality Room was open at 4 o’clock + most of the people were there to greet each other. Our buffet meal was outstanding with every imaginable choice of fruit, vegetables, cheeses – crackers, chicken, ham + breads. The bar was open + everyone was happy seeing each other + no one in the group was “over indulged”!
The gals – all 12 of us – gathered round the table to play cards. The cost is 15¢ to play + we played at least an hr. + a half – fun!
Retired after another full day to get ready for a city tour tomorrow.
The kids sent Bert E-mail birthday messages - cute!
9-13-99 Seattle
Our morning began at 9 am for a 3 hour tour of the city. Well first we had a delicious breakfast at 7 am in the hotel, so we were all set for the complete tour of beautiful scenic Seattle today. The highlight was the Pike Place Market. We also enjoyed seeing the Magnolia + Queen Anne Hill areas of gorgeous homes complete with manicured lawns, gorgeous flowers and sculptured plants/shrubs. These areas had a variety of deciduous trees as well as an abundance of Douglas firs. We crossed the floating bridge into the Bellevue area + back across another bridge.
In the afternoon, Bert and I took the monorail to the shopping area then on down the hill to see the rest of the city + the market. It comprises acres of fresh produce, flowers, bakeries, boutiques, galleries, arts + craft booths. We had grilled tuna salad sandwiches that were delicious at Cutters Bayhouse along the waterfront – lovely.
Cards in the evening with the gals completed another complete day!
9-14-99 Seattle
We packed as much into this final day as possible. We kept our eyes on the weather channel tracking as Hurricane Floyd is threatening the east coast of Fl. + we wanted to make sure Kents are okay.
We spent the morning at the aquarium with the Van Hs. We enjoyed that + it was a special treat seeing the divers go into the tanks to feed the fresh + salt water fish.
In the afternoon we went to the Science Museum what a treat. The Butterfly House was outstanding. The cocoons are shipped from Malaysia, Philippines, + Cost Rica + they cost $3 each in shipments of 500 every two weeks.
We spent the evening bidding farewell to all our 8th Combat buddies after dinner as the festivities are over! We surprised the guests with our performance by the 8th Combat Song – Doris W + her daughter, Nancy, Jan C, + Peg Van H. I accompanied them on the melodien. Fun evening. Full day! Good-bye! Farewell!!
9-15-99 Seattle - Pensacola
The Shuttle Express picked us up at 7:00 + got us to the airport at 7:30 for our flight home.
We boarded the huge 767 at 8:25 + were airborn at 8:35. Had a good warm breakfast, made great time to Atlanta in beautiful weather, and arrived in Atlanta at 4:05 Eastern Time. The train got us over to Gate B in time for a 15 min. breather before boarding our flight to Pensacola at 5:30 + we landed in Pensacola at 5:35 (Central Time).
That dear friend Dick L surprised is by meeting us as we’d planned to call Jim Y because this is choir practice night. Dick + Shirley made it on time for church [for choir practice]. Great friends!
We called Mike + Kent + everyone is at home safe + sound from Hurricane Floyd. Gracias!
Retired early after a wonderful trip!!
Thursday, June 10, 1999
Lewis and Clark Trail (1999)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
On Ryan's recommdation, we’ve decided to follow the Lewis and Clark Trail to his h. s. graduation in Bellingham, Wash. We traveled 445 miles the first day and all went well.
5-20-99 Pensacola - Nashville
Today we began the first leg of our 6500 mi. road trip following the Lewis & Clark route. We were blessed with beautiful weather + got an early 7 am start following the usual routes to Montgomery + Birmingham via Rt. 65, then on to Nashville – an eight hour drive where we stopped just a few miles south of Nashville at Brentwood.
Our accommodations at the Mainstay Suites was better than we expected. After a confusing up-to-date check-in via computer, then the assistance of a desk clerk, we found a very desirable room awaiting us. Just one year old, it had the latest in furnishings including all new appliances, sofa bed, desk + double bed Рvery attractive in a maroon, rose + green d̩cor.
We utilized the pool + had it all to ourselves. After a warm shower, we ate at a new O’Charley’s Restaurant + since it was the only real meal today, we feasted on home made rolls, chicken + salad.
The day couldn’t have been more perfect! Mileage today – 445 miles
5-21-99 Nashville - St Louis
Replacing people with computers isn’t always effective! No one appeared at breakfast to prepare tea/coffee + to check out persons leaving when the computer wasn’t doing the job. However, if having no hot beverage is the only snag on this trip, I won’t complain! The other accommodations here were excellent + I could highly recommend it.
We got on the road at 7:30 + enjoyed the leisure drive once we got out of Nashville. Rt. 24 to Paducah, Ky. was scenic especially the lake areas at the Tenn./Ky. border. Fields of brilliant red poppies were a joyful sight.
I had a hard time convincing Bert we were on the right route at the Ky./Ill. border when we had to exit onto Rt. 57 to Mt. Vernon. We stopped here for gas + had a bite to eat at Fazoli’s.
Stopping at the Gateway Arch was interesting seeing the Lewis + Clark exhibits underneath the arch at the Museum of Westward Expansion. The exhibits are presented in concentric semicircles that represent interactive time lines. The trail began here at the arch.
We didn’t take time to take the ride to the top of the arch as there was a line of students waiting to get tickets. We opted for a tour of the Lewis + Clark Center in St. Charles, about 20 miles west on Rt. 70.
We had a difficult time finding it as it was located in a large bldg. on Riverside Dr. + poorly marked. It was interesting to see the artifacts of these two brave men + all the others who accompanied them on this arduous two year journey from 1804-1806. There were some 40 other brave souls who made the trip as well. (More about that as we pursue their route to the West.)
Our reservation to the Best Western Country Inn in St. Charles was a challenge trying to locate it but at last we found it tucked away on a service road off I-70 + it felt good to be “home” for another day’s trek of 350 miles.
We walked across the road to Judd’s for barbecue - it was good – very satisfying.
5-22-99 St Louis - Kansas City
We had an excellent breakfast of fruit, cereal, juice + coffee + were on our way at 8 am for K.C. Rt. 70 had more bumps than we needed so we detoured to Jefferson City and toured the capital.
The history of the state was nicely displayed with pictures of prominent people as well as dioramas of the diversified land. Very impressive.
We arrived in K.C. shortly after 2 pm + parked in the downtown Crown Center garage. We visited the impressive Hallmark Visitors Center. We watched a technician making dies, saw Keepsake ornaments for the past 23 years, saw memorabilia from more than 80 years of history + saw a 13 min. video before going next door to the Kaleidoscope bldg. Here we saw children, ages 5-12 creating all kinds of art work of various media.
We drove through a maze of routes reaching Best Western Country Inn near the K.C. International Airport.
Had a nice chat with Chilly + Dot C + ate dinner at the Holiday Inn. Mileage today nearly 300 mi. 1087 mi since leaving home.
5-23-99 Kansas City - Sioux Falls, S. Dak.
The mileage now reads 1083 + we’ve had no problems weather wise so we can relax a bit today as there are no big cities or traffic jams to comtemplate for today.
We started out about 8 am after a somewhat meager breakfast for a 3 star AAA motel. For a fairly new motel, it was poorly staffed + falling apart, but we’ll move on + not let that spoil our trip.
There weren’t many routes to remember, just the exits for rest areas + places we stopped to sight see. There was not much to see today so we just moseyed along on Route 29 from Mo. – Neb. - Iowa + S. Dak.
Our first stop was at the Lewis + Clark State Park just south of St. Joseph, Mo. It was a very attractive camping area on the Missouri River with a well built shelter constructed by the CCC [Civilian Conservation Corps] in the 1930s. People were very relaxed fishing in the peaceful environment.
We meandered along the Missouri R. into Nebraska driving through Omaha + into Council Bluffs, Iowa. St. Jo is known for the starting point of the Pony Express to Calif. + is an important grain + livestock center.
Council Bluffs faces Omaha across the Missouri R. + the first transcontinental railroad started here.
Omaha boomed from the westward expansion + is now one of the Midwest’s larger lifestock markets.
The most interesting part of the trip today was the Squaw Creek Nat. Wildlife Refuge in Mound City, Mo. There we saw red winged blackbirds, swallows that nest on banks in the water, rass ducks, cormorants, snow geese + nesting boxes for wood ducks. This was a 10 mile trip @ 25 mph + well worth the detour.
We stopped at the Iowa State Lewis + Clark State Park + saw a replica of the keelboat that they used on the Missouri R. This was located in Onawa, Iowa.
After passing Sioux City, we stopped at the S. Dak. Welcome Center + got a lot of maps + info for our trip tomorrow.
We sped at the 75 mph speed limit all the way into Sioux Falls, arriving at 5 pm. Wonderful meal + accommodations. I’m tired and off to bed!!
The restaurant where we ate last night was the Timber Lake Steak House, highly recommended + we ordered steak + chicken. Well, mine was just an ordinary piece of sirloin on a kibob, but the soup was out of this world. It was a wild rice concoction with tiny bits of ham. So delicious I’ll never be able to duplicate so I won’t try. Their prices were a little high, but the atmosphere was attractive + we enjoyed it after the long day’s drive.
Our room at the Best Western Empire Tower was lovely + we enjoyed a swim before dinner. The motel lived up to the 3 star rating.
Bert tried to send messages out but couldn’t connect on the Internet.
We had a great day. The mileage now is 1506.
5-24-99 Sioux Falls, S. Dak. - Bismarck, N. Dak.
Our breakfast was complete with cereal, banana, skim milk, muffin + juice + coffee. We slept in a little longer + didn’t get away as early as usual: 8:30.
It was another bright + sunny day + we stopped at the amazing corn palace in Mitchelle. This is a fanciful Moorish-style building covered with patterns created from various natural shades of corn + outlined with grasses + grain. It’s redesigned annually.
From there we continued on Rt. 90 to Chamberlain where we stopped at the Visitor’s Center.
We continued along following the scenic Missouri R. route of rich farm land, rolling hills, large herds of cattle + and never have I seen the sky bluer or the grass greener.
We followed the Lewis + Clark H’way signs + took a 4 mi. dirt road to the river – one of the sites where they landed.
Mid-afternoon we made a phone call in Pierre (Peer), the capital to make our reservation for tonight at the Comfort Inn in Bismarck.
This was an especially long day of driving with beautiful scenery. The only glitch was our clothes pole broke + all the clothes that were neatly hung spilled.
When we drove into the motel, we partially unloaded, then Bert took off to the hardware store + I took off for the pool.
We opted for carry out food tonight as we wanted to see the last segment of “Mad About You.” It was just O.K.
Our room is very comfortable + very reasonably priced.
We’re looking forward to tomorrow’s tour of the capital.
P.S. On the 4 mi. dirt road to the river we met a young calf on the road who eyeballed us. As soon as I got my camera out, he darted across the road. However I did manage to get a good shot of a mother cow with her calf crossing the dirt road. That made my day.
5-25-99 Bismarck, N. Dak. - Miles City, Mont.
This was a super motel + excellent breakfast. So much to see here! Our first stop today was at 8 am at the capitol bldg.
Tony our guide gave us a tour of this 19th story “skyscraper” – one of a kind. It is an Art Deco design + houses the Supreme Court + legislative chambers. All the state offices are housed in this one building. It is made of white limestone on a black granite base. An observation deck on the 18th floor gave us an unbelievable view on this beautiful sunny day. Supposedly we could see for 35 miles. The bronze statue of Sacajawea here was worthy of a snapshot.
Then we drove to Mandan + visited the Fort Abe Lincoln Park where we took pictures of the Earth Mounds built by the Mandan Indians.
The ruins of an On-a-Slant Village are here + a museum telling of the fur trade + effect of the homesteading era had on the area. Custer’s infantry + cavalry bldgs. are replicated here also.
We decided on going back to Bismarck as we’d heard so much about the Lewis + Clark Interpretive Museum at Washburn, we had to forego our plans to make Billings our stop for tonight. Are we glad we decided to take the time to drive north about 30 mi. to see it. Everything was so well displayed about all you’d ever want to know about these two courageous men was there - hands on materials, paintings, relics, maps, etc. When these men + their party came to this area on the Missouri R., Lewis and Clark stayed here four months, then returned here on their way back from the Pacific O. An amusing incident was reading about the medicines they took. Lewis administered (prescribed) Dr. Rush’s “thunder-clapper’s” prescription for practically everything + Lewis took 50 dozen of these pills with them.
We took county road west, then south to Dickinson where we picked up Rt. 94 again + made a reservation for tonight’s lodging at miles City, Mont. We still had several hundred miles to drive, but the scenery was exquisite + the 75 mph speed limit got us here in time for a nice swim at the Best Western War Bonnet Inn + a prime rib dinner at a local family restaurant. We drove 400 miles today.
5-26-99 Miles City, Mont. – Bozeman
The mileage as we drove in to the War Bonnet Inn (Best Western) was 2,338 miles. When we checked in to the Western Heritage Inn at 6:30 this evening, the mileage read 2867, so you can see we put in a full day on the road.
First of all, we decided the van needed a lube + bath, so while he van was being cared for at Wal-Mart, we outfitted ourselves in new jeans as this is the Western wear + it’s all we’ve had on for the past few days.
Since we changed our itinerary today, we decided to get off the interstate today + drive state rt. 59 to Jordan + up Rt. 87 to Great Falls. What a treat. It was marvelous country + we saw many different types of terrain from prairie to snow capped mountains. Quite a few antelope were spotted as well as magpies, deer, horses, cattle + Bert even saw a coyote! Miles + miles of sagebrush + grass land were seen for miles + miles. (Redundant – sorry!)
At Great Falls we had a time finding the Visitors Center because of detours, but when we located it, it was worthwhile as the lady there was very helpful.
She gave us directions + a map of the location where Lewis + Clark portaged. We went to the Black Eagle Falls Overlook. Giant Springs, the world’s shortest river (Roe), + the Rainbow Falls Overlook. This is the area where L+C + group nearly perished after a violent rain + hailstorm + were nearly swept into a deep ravine.
After we left the falls, we took Rt. 15 down to Helena, the capital, then Bozeman, + it was the most spectacular drive I’ve ever taken through the Helena National Forest. It’s a combination of sagebrush, bunch grass to douglas fir, lodgepole pine + spruce with the beautiful Missouri R. meandering through it. Just beautiful.
We checked in at the motel. I used the whirlpool (too much chlorine), + steam room. We showered + had dinner at the 4B restaurant.
This was a full day – 10 hrs. on the road + over 500 miles, but just great – very fulfilling.
5-27-99 Bozeman – Missoula
Our accommodations at the Western Heritage Inn were quite nice. In the lobby + breakfast area we had a rustic décor with stuffed animals on the wall: a Kodiak bear, caribou, elk + deer.
The first stop was to tour MSU [Montana State University] where Ryan will be a freshman in Aug. We were impressed with the attractive bldgs. + took some pictures.
We stopped at the County Market + bought apples for our daily lunch. Then I made a reservation for a room this evening at the Bel-Air Motel in Missoula.
We stopped at AAA for maps + then drove to at Three Forks + took pictures of the Madison, Jefferson, + Gallatin Rivers which form the Missouri R. + this is the Headwater where the Missouri begins.
Lewis + Clark camped here + the park shows pictures, which we took, of their landing. This was the home of Sacajawea where she as a Shoshone was kidnapped by the Minnetaree Indians; later she married the fur trader Charboneau + went along with Lewis + Clark + was quite an asset to the expedition!
Our next stop was at the Berkeley Open Pot Copper Mine at Butte. From there we traveled to Missoula on I-90, a distance of about 85 miles + got here mid afternoon in time to do laundry + take a swim in the indoor pool.
We’ve now driven 3,096 miles + the couple in the room next to us at the Bel-Air Motel came from Pensacola where they were attending the Brownsville Assembly of God. Small world!
After our swim we got cleaned up + found an interesting Old World Cooking type restaurant. It’s the Perugia + tonight they featured Greek food in addition to Italian menu. Bert had lasagna which he said was not your typical Sam’s. Mine was Greek: Pastitso (Pasta + Veal Casserole) Moussaka, Eggplant + Lamb, Cypriot sausage + Sweet Spiced Rice – Delicious.
Bert sent E-mail messages while I made motel reservation at Comfort Inn in Walla Walla, Wash. for tomorrow.
Nice relaxing day.
5-28-99 Missoula, Mont. - Walla Walla, Wash.
The mileage starting out today is 3100. We had to eat at McDonalds as the motel office wasn’t opened. The Bel Air is definitely not a AAA facility + should be removed from their list of accredited motels.
Our day was perfect otherwise. We bought apples, our daily lunch, at Safeway + began the beautiful Lolo Pass Drive through the beautiful Clearwater National Forest. We followed the Selway River to Lowe R, Idaho, stopped at the ranger’s station + learned about the paving of the highway in ’62, and observed white water rafting on the rough Locksa. The lady here at the Powel Ranger Station told us that $2 million dollars was the cost in ’57 appropriated for paving this road + it was Sen. Gore (Al’s father) who was instrumental in passing this bill.
We took pictures of the numerous places L+C + company landed + there are a lot of plaques that tell their story of the hardship Lewis + Clark endured especially going over the mountains to reach the coast.
*Fish hatchery at Orofino, Ida.
The scenery all along Lolo Pass is splendid, good highway, interesting towns, changes in elevation, winding roads, rough water, etc.
We stopped at the Nez Perce National Historic Park at Kamiah, ID + the museum had a lot of artifacts + saw a 23-minute film which was interesting. Although the Nez Perce Nation lost alot of territory because of an unfair settlement, they were very friendly with Lewis + Clark because they were kind to the Nez Perce + established a good relationship with them. The man who was narrating the filmed praised them (L+C) for helping them.
After passing Lewiston, Ida., the highway was less winding + we made better time. All told it was a long drive, but well worth it. We drove over 380 mile + it took us about nine hrs because of all the stops.
Our motel is beautiful accommodations a *** Comfort Inn – gorgeous roses – indoor pool + whirlpool + cookies + coffee in the lobby. Only problem - Bert couldn’t get on the Internet!
Had a delicious dinner at Jacob’s across the way. Jared Jones, quarterback at FSU [Florida State University] was our Server in Walla Walla, Wash. Small world.
5-29-99 Walla Walla - Portland
We left the beautiful Comfort Inn at 8:30 + the mileage was 3422. We took Rt. 11 through the Umatilla Indian Reservation. After that, + kept going west because there weren’t any historical markings, we drove on through Pendleton on Rt. 84. The mill was closed since it’s Sat. so we couldn’t take a tour. On through beautiful rolling hills – foothills of the Cascades into Ore. shortly after leaving Walla Walla.
Our next stop was The Dalles where the Columbia River narrows here + the French christened it “les dalles,” meaning “the trough” + Lewis + Clark described it as “the great Indian mart of this country.” The Columbia Gorge is beyond words – it’s breathtakingly beautiful here. We took the train out to the lock + dam + watched the salmon, shad + sturgeon climbing the ladders enroute to the Pacific where they spawn, then die, ending the cycle.
On the Hood River, north of the Columbia, we saw many wind surfers going at a rapid pace. Along our route were beautiful tall Douglas firs from the peaks to the highway + large numbers of forsythias were mixed in between. What a beautiful sight – the bright yellows with the tall pines. All along this scenic route was the majestic Mount Hood looking over the whole area – Mt Hood National Forest.
We were still on the Lewis + Clark Trail + stopped at the L+C State Park to take pictures. One plaque said "They loved salmon + stayed awhile." The salmon do swim up to this area + we saw one that a couple caught + they said it weighed about 18#.
This being Memorial Day weekend, rooms were hard to find + the prices are high. Gas is $1.59 gal. We found a nice comfortable beautifully furnished **Best Western + after dinner we decided it was a full day! The Fortniter suite was so nice; the owner was so helpful that it should be rated ***. Their suggestion to try Steamers for dinner was excellent - an attractive, roomy place with stained glass windows + oriental rugs. Good choice.
May 30, Portland, Ore. - McChord AFB
The mileage is now 3685. We began touring Portland about 9 am after a very complete + satisfying breakfast.
We had to leave the Lewis + Clark trail here as we had lots to see + we didn’t want to be on the road too long. So we said “adieu” at the Columbia + bid these two brave men on to the Pacific Ocean + the Clatsops where they were well fed before they prepared for their return trip home.
After viewing the beautiful Rose Garden in Peninsula Park, which is one of the largest sunken gardens in America, we wandered around for what seemed to be hours before finding the fabulous Japanese Gardens.
Are we ever glad we found it because we never saw anything as beautiful anywhere in Japan during our three year tour in ’65-’68. We toured for over an hour with a guide who explained the differences in the five traditional styles of gardens, a Japanese tea house + a pavilion that opens onto a view of Portland + the mountains surrounding the city.
It wasn’t too late to take a trip up the mountain to see the famous Mt St Helens that erupted violently in 1982. More than 1300 feet of the mountain’s top cascaded into the Toutle River Valley below destroying 150,000 square acres of forest + killing everything above ground. Fifty-seven people perished. Now the land blooms again + fish swim in the rivers + lakes.
We saw an excellent 15 min. film at the Interpretive Center which was about 5 miles from Hwy 5, then to get a closer look, we drove another 40 miles on SR504 because it was a gorgeous day + the highway was good. Were we glad we took the extra time to view the spectacular sight because we were within 4 miles of it! We would’ve liked to stay longer but had to move on.
Tonight’s lodging was more than we expected at McChord AF Base in Tacoma - beyond words. We got the key to a beautifully furnished apartment: living room with TV, VCR, desk for computer, dining area, kitchen (new appliances), new bath – double sink, + bed with huge closet, another TV + VCR. I think we’ll stay! Oh, yes – TV dinners, frozen breakfast meals in frig, so we’ll eat here. A great day! Mileage: 3941.
5-31-99 McChord AFBase, Wash. – Whidbey Island
We left our lovely Airey Suite of the Evergreens Inn after making breakfast in the microwave, doing some laundry, ironing + packing + checking out at 11:30. We picked up a few items at the BX, then headed north on Rt. 5 in a drizzling rain. By the time we got to Seattle the windshield wipers were going full speed. At the Mount Vernon exit we left rt. 5 and drove approximately 20 miles toward Whidbey Island. The rain stopped + the sun was shining brightly. We passed the beautiful Deception Pass State Park + the 182 ft high bridge over swirling waters. The name “deception” comes from the explorer, George Vancouver, who thought Whidbey was merely a peninsula rather than an island. There are a lot of birds in the area, but it’s quite windy so we’ll look for them tomorrow on our way to Vancouver.
There’s not much to report here. We’re happy to have a nice clean room for the night at the BOQ – nothing fancy. As we came back from dinner at McDonald's, we parked next to a naval officer from Pensacola! We agreed we’d rather have the hot humid weather there than this fierce north wind!!
6-1-99 Whidbey Island, Wash. - Vancouver, B.C.
We started out this morning in a drizzling rain in Oak Harbor + as we approached Rt. 5 going toward Bellingham, it was raining hard. We stopped at the Travelodge + confirmed our reservations for Mike + Donna + us for later in the week. We called Ryan + Leslie + left a message that we would see them Thurs.
It was a short drive to Vancouver + we stopped at the Tourist Information Center to check on reservations for tonight + tomorrow night. The girl there was very helpful in directing us to an area accessible to downtown for motels less than an arm and a leg. She also gave us good directions for finding this place as well as directions to a Chev. garage. Unfortunately the hook broke that holds the clothes rod + we have to get a replacement tomorrow – hopefully.
We checked into nice clean comfortable Quality Inn in a multi-national neighborhood about 2:00 pm., got a bite to eat after unloading everything in the van + started out driving in the rain to find Stanley Park.
It was raining pretty hard when we left the motel, so I didn’t bother taking my camera. What a mistake this was! It’s a good thing we decided to stay here another day because we wanted to get some pictures of the beautiful gardens. When we stopped at the Tea House restaurant to take in the view, the view of the Strait of Georgia was spectacular.
We came back to the motel, looked over our travel brochures + decided we drive to Grouse Mtn. tomorrow for an overview of the area.
Dinner was downstairs at the Jaguar restaurant where we had shrimp stir fry (me) + Monte Cristo + salad for Bert.
We’re anxious to see more of this international city + look forward to our travels tomorrow!
6-2-99 Vancouver
This was an unusually beautiful day, unlike yesterday when it was cold, windy + rainy. We took advantage of the weather to go sightseeing.
First we had to go to the Chev. dealer to have the part replaced on the van that broke. This was a relatively simple procedure + took just a few minutes to install once the part was located. Now we can hang up our clothes even though it cost us an arm and a leg. Chev. you’ll hear from us!!
By 10:30 we were on our way to Grouse Mountain. From downtown we followed Georgia St. westbound through Stanley Park across Lion’s Gate Bridge + on to Capilano. We didn’t stop at the Suspension Bridge as it was too scary. The scenery in the northern part of Vancouver is even more beautiful than the brochures + well worth a trip to the mountains.
We rode the tram a distance of 3700 ft. to the top of the mountain. It was fun walking in the snow + taking pictures. Theatre in the Sky was the video that was excellent. We got a panoramic view of all the city, took more pictures and saw everything we tried to see yesterday.
We circled the city trying to find different locations on the map. I made some bad calls, but so did Bert, so we just blamed the poor map makers!
The area where we are staying is in Burnaby + it’s located near the Metro so people who commute are not dependent on cars. Good! If we would be here for longer we’d use this means of transportation rather than battle the traffic.
We made a trip to Safeway next door + bought our supply of fruit.
Had dinner again at Jaquar’s next door as it’s so convenient.
Bert has been so frustrated trying to get on line for two days. After numerous phone calls, he did get connected + it was so good to get + Bert was so happy to finally get online + send out messages to family + friends. It was a good ending for a full day.
The mileage is now 4,324 miles.
6-3-99 Vancouver – Bellingham
We packed up and checked out around 9:00 a.m. and it was just 25 miles to the U.S. border + another 24 miles to Bellingham. We took 91A across the Fraser River + onto the States via Rt. 91 – a beautiful day + a beautiful drive. It was early when we got into the area, so we took a drive along the Birch Bay area + stopped at a Family Medical Clinic + made an appointment to see a doctor to check my thumbs this afternoon.
Since our room was ready, we checked into the Travelodge + it appears to be acceptable for our three days in Bellingham for Ryan's graduation.
This afternoon we drove up to a quaint little city called Lynden. I saw a doctor who looked at my thumbs + advised me to keep them hot + dry, + to see my doctor when I get back home. He was an Ohio State graduate + very personable, Dr. Jeff Ries.
Ryan came over + picked us up and we went to his place for dinner. They had a wonderful meal for us: grilled salmon, rice, and salad. It was very good and we had a nice visit with Leslie and Sam.
The awards assembly at Schome High School was very interesting. Many students were honored in various categories. Ryan received a scholarship to Montana State in Bozeman + we’re so proud of him! At the end of the awards, the students + faculty gave a cheer: “Sun, sun, sun” as that’s what everyone is praying for tomorrow as it will be much nicer having graduation outside. We’ll see.
They served refreshments afterwards, and Ryan introduced us to all his close friends. We were so glad + really impressed with all these such nice kids and their enthusiasm for pursuing further education.
6-4-99 Bellingham
We drove over to a pretty little community called Fairhaven + saw the station + the rose garden. You can catch the Alaska ferries here. We drove along the scenic Chuckanaut Dr. + on a clear day you can see the San Juan Islands, but it was cloudy + misty, so we didn’t take any pictures. There were magnificent views of Puget Sound.
After a trip to the local supermarket, where we bought fruit, we took another drive along Lake Whatcom Blvd. where we saw the beautiful falls + lake. We stopped at the fisheries there + saw huge tanks of cold water fish – trout, salmon + char.
We made a reservation for lodging tomorrow night at Moses Lake Travelodge.
Donna + Mike drove in about 2:00 from their long flight from Seattle, so we let them rest a couple hours.
Ryan came over at 5:30 + took us to the Marina for a wonderful meal of seafood + salad.
Ryan invited us to go to his friends’ graduation parties. What beautiful homes! Tyler is a friend who, with his date, went to the prom with Ryan + his date. His parents had quite a spread + they live on Lake Whatcom. We stayed for about an hour there + I thought we were coming back to the motel. Instead, we went to another party on the south side of the lake. We had met Sarah the night before at the Awards Assembly. She’s a beautiful girl + was Ryan’s date for the prom. We socialized a little while with more nice people + tried to eat more wonderful food, but were too full.
Another rainy day - we had to don raincoats all day, but these folks are used to it, + just take it for granted that it’s typical Wash. weather. In spite of the inconvenience, we had a wonderful day.
6-5-99 Bellingham - Moses Lake
This morning we did laundry, packed + checked out. Donna + Mike joined us + we went over to Leslie's for brunch. It was lovely. We met more of Ryan's friends. Since we had to be over at the school at 11:30 to park for the graduation, we said our good-byes there. It is a good thing as there was no way to find Ryan in a crowd of over 3,000 people there after graduation.
We were really impressed with all the speakers, especially Nick Stevens, the class president + the principal + superintendent.
There were over 300 graduates + Ryan sat in a row nearest us + we sat in the 10th row of the bleachers with Mike and Donna and could see Ryan + had a good view of the whole class. The convocation was held in the W. Wash. U. auditorium because of rain. (It was another rainy + breezy day!)
The Schome Mariners is a great school + this was not only a highlight of the seniors’ year, but a highlight of our entire trip!
We left for Moses Lake at 5 o’clock + arrived here at 9:30. It was just beginning to get dark. It’s out on the prairie land + coming into town we saw all the crops grown here as the names are printed on the fences. Sweet corn, field corn, wheat, hay, alfalfa, sugar beets, oats + potatoes are grown here due to their irrigation system. Otherwise it would just have been miles + miles of sagebrush.
As we followed Rt. 5, 405, + 90 these are the areas we passed: the Sgagit River, Wenatchee National Forest, outskirts of Seattle, Lake Sammanish, Snoqualmie National Forest, + Ellensberg. This latter place is where the Wenatchee, Nez Perce, + Yakama Indians hunted + fished peacefully. The Yakama River runs along the highway and the Columbia is also here in the Ellensberg area. The whole trip through the Cascades was beautiful + we saw a huge brilliant rainbow + another one that was muted.
The mileage is now 4725.
6-6-99 Moses Lake - Bozeman, Mont.
Breakfast this morning wasn’t the usual fare. This Travelodge was adequate – clean bed + shower but no breakfast included. At 5 am Sporty's Bar was opened for business. The "good old boys" rolled in, took their cups + the waitress rolled dice to see if she paid or they coughed up their 75 cents. The food was good + we never complained that everyone was smoking including the gal who served us. I’ve never heard so much laughter at 5:45.
We kept moving east by 7:15 but since we had a time change, we moved up the clock an hour. We drove 8-1/2 hours today + made good time considering the fact that we had a lot of rain + mountains to deal with.
We saw more beautiful country to Spokane, then on to Coeur d’Alene + the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. We had the time change from Pacific to Mountain in this area. We traveled I-90 past the Clark Fork + the Lolo National Forest. We didn’t drive over the scenic Lolo Pass as we did that on our way out to the coast.
We continued on I-90 through Missoula, where we stayed enroute west, and passed through the beautiful Deerlodge National Forest. At Butte we passed the Continental Divide and at Three Forks we saw the Missouri Headwaters again where the three rivers, Jefferson, Madison, + Gallatin come together + the Missouri River begins. This confluence was documented by Lewis + Clark on their trip to the Pacific in 1805.
We reached our motel, the Western Heritage Inn, early + it was good to have dome “free time.” This is where we stayed on our way out. It’s clean, safe + comfortable. Bert was able to log on while I took a long relaxing “bath” in the spa area – whirlpool + steam room. It helped clear the sinuses!!
We ate a nice meal at Fuddruckers before retiring early.
Mileage is now 5,235.
6-7-99 Bozeman, Mont. - Rapid City, S. Dak. (Wall, S. Dak.)
Mileage – 5,818
This was a long trip today but we saw beautiful scenery again, and we learned it pays to have a reservation. We took a chance that we’d be able to stay at the base in Rapid City; well, the BOQ was filled when we arrived. We made a few phone calls in Rapid City to no avail. We enjoyed seeing all the planes + activity at Ellsworth AFB. We drove another 43 miles to Wall where we checked in to a new *** Best Western at 6:00 pm – not too bad!
We left Bozeman in the rain at 39 degrees which was par for the course. We drove through the Gallatin National Forest + followed the Yellowstone River through Billings. We drove through the Crow Indian Reservation + at Exit 510 we decided to take a break + checked out the Crow Casino. We gave the Indians 50 cents, used the restroom, took a picture of the Casino + the little white church adjacent to it.
We headed east on I-90, followed the Bighorn River into Wyo. + the Bighorn National Forest. Sheridan is the largest city in Northern Wyo. + the town was once the heart of the Indian wars. Next city we passed was Buffalo which is a ranching town at the foot of the Bighorn Mtns. Its early days were not so friendly: many battles with the Sioux + Cheyenne Indians + the Johnson County War between ranchers + farmers took place in the vicinity.
We’re now in the Black Hills area of S. Dak. + there are many tourists here from all over the country. We’ve been here before with Kent + Mike so we didn’t stop at Mt. Rushmore Nat’l Monument or do any of the other tourist attractions.
A note about Wall, S. Dak. This place has been known for years as a tourist stop which started as a drug store in 1909. There is a block long Wall Drug Store with all kinds of shops in it + Main Street still has many buildings constructed during the days of western expansion. The ruts made by the wagons that carried prospectors + their supplies to the goldfields of the Black Hills are still visible on the nearby prairies. We’ve already been to the Badlands so we’ll forego that trip + we are moving on east.
6-8-99 Wall, S. Dak. - St Joe, Mo.
This was a long day today – 600 miles + 10 hrs of driving. We left at 7:15, but we set our clocks ahead to 8:15 as we go into Central Time at Murdo, S. Dak.
We passed the Black Hills area, the name given for the thick pine forest covering the slopes. The Lakota Sioux sought guidance from their ancestors here. Mining is still important in the area.
We followed the Missouri river to Chamberlain. This is the demarcation line between the corn + grain area to the east + cattle country to the western part of the state.
We passed through Sioux Falls, S. Dak. This was named for the Big Sioux River + began as a fur-trading settlement + stone quarying settlement. From Sioux City, Iowa to Council Bluffs we followed the Missouri River. We never got into Nebraska, but Omaha was just across the river.
Kansas was a welcome sight + we have a nice room at the Ramada. Used the pool area, had dinner here (St. Joe), + will retire early.
Mileage - 6,421.
6-9-99 St Joe, Mo. - Clarksville, Tenn.
Mileage 7,006
We left St. Joe about 8 o’clock + Bert did most of the driving this a.m. We crossed the Missouri River into Kansas City + the traffic was very heavy. The roads have alot to be desired with lots of construction on Rt. 70. The Missouri R. was with us again all the way into St. Louis + since we’d traveled this way on our way out, we didn’t do any exploring. Crossing the river into Ill. we passed fields + fields of corn in the Alton-Belleville area. We passed Scott AFB + at Mt. Vernon, we stopped + made a phone call to Clarksville, Tenn. to reserve a room for tonight. We planned to stop overnight at Paducah, Ky. but decided we could drive another 90 miles + have a shorter trip on Thurs.
We followed Rt.57 South + at Carbondale we stopped for fuel + something to drink as the temp. all day has been in the 90’s. I had to laugh at one of the girls, from the busload of kids, washing her hair in the sink in the restroom! Crossing from Missouri to Ill. we crossed the Mississippi River. Then when we crossed into Ky. from Ill., we went over the beautiful Ohio River. What a thrill! (You can take a person out of the hills but you can’t take the hills out of the person) + how I love that Ohio River! When we came into Tenn., we crossed the Tenn. and Cumberland Rivers.
Our "home" tonight is the best place we’ve had on the entire trip at the Executive Inn Best Western in Clarksville. We had a swim in the nice size pool + the water (outside) was nice + warm. The whirlpool was marvelous. We have a nicely furnished living room, TV + a king size bed, desk, another TV, chest of drawers, frig, microwave, walk-in closet; everything newly furnished. We lucked out on these accommodations! Had a good meal at Olive Garden. This is a beautiful area – tobacco + wheat fields or is it corn??
Drove 585 miles - 9-1/2 hours.
6-10-99 Clarksville, Tenn. – Pensacola
The mileage was 7008 when we started out at 7:15. We followed Rt. 24 out of Clarksville for about 20 miles + just as we were about to get on Rt. 65 to start our trip south to Nashville, the traffic was horrendous - cars madly crossing lanes, when I remarked “That car is about to have an accident.” I don’t know if the black car was responsible, but a very serious accident occurred + we were just five cars behind the wreck. A huge truck with a load of shingles was involved; fire trucks + emergency vehicles came zooming from all directions + it looked as though we would be held up in traffic for quite awhile. It was announced on the radio that there was a fatality + we’ll never know the particulars. Road rage is so senseless + that was positive proof of it.
We had been saying over + over again how perfect this trip had been until this accident today. The weather was cooperative all the way, we followed the Lewis + Clark trail all the way from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean, and saw beautiful country – an experience few people are fortunate enough to enjoy. We are so grateful we were able to drive this huge expanse of our great U.S.A. We shall always reminisce with delight!!
We drove a total of 493 miles today and a grand total of 7,499 - two weeks going out, three days with Ryan, Leslie, Sam + friends + five days on the return trip. Mike and Donna joined us in Bellingham!
One lesson we learned on this trip for future travels, always call ahead early in the day for motel reservations. You get the choice rooms + as a rule, better rates. We paid anywhere from $12 a night at Whidbey Island NAS in Puget Sound to $75.00 in Wall, S. Dak., home of Wall Drug.
Someday, hopefully our children + grandchildren will be able to make the trip retracing the route of these two courageous men, Lewis and Clark, on their trip out West.
“Happy birthday, Kent!” Can’t get you on the phone. Hope you got the E-mail!
On Ryan's recommdation, we’ve decided to follow the Lewis and Clark Trail to his h. s. graduation in Bellingham, Wash. We traveled 445 miles the first day and all went well.
5-20-99 Pensacola - Nashville
Today we began the first leg of our 6500 mi. road trip following the Lewis & Clark route. We were blessed with beautiful weather + got an early 7 am start following the usual routes to Montgomery + Birmingham via Rt. 65, then on to Nashville – an eight hour drive where we stopped just a few miles south of Nashville at Brentwood.
Our accommodations at the Mainstay Suites was better than we expected. After a confusing up-to-date check-in via computer, then the assistance of a desk clerk, we found a very desirable room awaiting us. Just one year old, it had the latest in furnishings including all new appliances, sofa bed, desk + double bed Рvery attractive in a maroon, rose + green d̩cor.
We utilized the pool + had it all to ourselves. After a warm shower, we ate at a new O’Charley’s Restaurant + since it was the only real meal today, we feasted on home made rolls, chicken + salad.
The day couldn’t have been more perfect! Mileage today – 445 miles
5-21-99 Nashville - St Louis
Replacing people with computers isn’t always effective! No one appeared at breakfast to prepare tea/coffee + to check out persons leaving when the computer wasn’t doing the job. However, if having no hot beverage is the only snag on this trip, I won’t complain! The other accommodations here were excellent + I could highly recommend it.
We got on the road at 7:30 + enjoyed the leisure drive once we got out of Nashville. Rt. 24 to Paducah, Ky. was scenic especially the lake areas at the Tenn./Ky. border. Fields of brilliant red poppies were a joyful sight.
I had a hard time convincing Bert we were on the right route at the Ky./Ill. border when we had to exit onto Rt. 57 to Mt. Vernon. We stopped here for gas + had a bite to eat at Fazoli’s.
Stopping at the Gateway Arch was interesting seeing the Lewis + Clark exhibits underneath the arch at the Museum of Westward Expansion. The exhibits are presented in concentric semicircles that represent interactive time lines. The trail began here at the arch.
We didn’t take time to take the ride to the top of the arch as there was a line of students waiting to get tickets. We opted for a tour of the Lewis + Clark Center in St. Charles, about 20 miles west on Rt. 70.
We had a difficult time finding it as it was located in a large bldg. on Riverside Dr. + poorly marked. It was interesting to see the artifacts of these two brave men + all the others who accompanied them on this arduous two year journey from 1804-1806. There were some 40 other brave souls who made the trip as well. (More about that as we pursue their route to the West.)
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| Bert with Lewis & Clark Trail marker in St Charles, MO |
We walked across the road to Judd’s for barbecue - it was good – very satisfying.
5-22-99 St Louis - Kansas City
We had an excellent breakfast of fruit, cereal, juice + coffee + were on our way at 8 am for K.C. Rt. 70 had more bumps than we needed so we detoured to Jefferson City and toured the capital.
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| Missouri State Capitol |
We arrived in K.C. shortly after 2 pm + parked in the downtown Crown Center garage. We visited the impressive Hallmark Visitors Center. We watched a technician making dies, saw Keepsake ornaments for the past 23 years, saw memorabilia from more than 80 years of history + saw a 13 min. video before going next door to the Kaleidoscope bldg. Here we saw children, ages 5-12 creating all kinds of art work of various media.
We drove through a maze of routes reaching Best Western Country Inn near the K.C. International Airport.
Had a nice chat with Chilly + Dot C + ate dinner at the Holiday Inn. Mileage today nearly 300 mi. 1087 mi since leaving home.
5-23-99 Kansas City - Sioux Falls, S. Dak.
The mileage now reads 1083 + we’ve had no problems weather wise so we can relax a bit today as there are no big cities or traffic jams to comtemplate for today.
We started out about 8 am after a somewhat meager breakfast for a 3 star AAA motel. For a fairly new motel, it was poorly staffed + falling apart, but we’ll move on + not let that spoil our trip.
There weren’t many routes to remember, just the exits for rest areas + places we stopped to sight see. There was not much to see today so we just moseyed along on Route 29 from Mo. – Neb. - Iowa + S. Dak.
Our first stop was at the Lewis + Clark State Park just south of St. Joseph, Mo. It was a very attractive camping area on the Missouri River with a well built shelter constructed by the CCC [Civilian Conservation Corps] in the 1930s. People were very relaxed fishing in the peaceful environment.
We meandered along the Missouri R. into Nebraska driving through Omaha + into Council Bluffs, Iowa. St. Jo is known for the starting point of the Pony Express to Calif. + is an important grain + livestock center.
Council Bluffs faces Omaha across the Missouri R. + the first transcontinental railroad started here.
Omaha boomed from the westward expansion + is now one of the Midwest’s larger lifestock markets.
The most interesting part of the trip today was the Squaw Creek Nat. Wildlife Refuge in Mound City, Mo. There we saw red winged blackbirds, swallows that nest on banks in the water, rass ducks, cormorants, snow geese + nesting boxes for wood ducks. This was a 10 mile trip @ 25 mph + well worth the detour.
We stopped at the Iowa State Lewis + Clark State Park + saw a replica of the keelboat that they used on the Missouri R. This was located in Onawa, Iowa.
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| Bert with replicas of the keelboat in the river and another boat |
We sped at the 75 mph speed limit all the way into Sioux Falls, arriving at 5 pm. Wonderful meal + accommodations. I’m tired and off to bed!!
The restaurant where we ate last night was the Timber Lake Steak House, highly recommended + we ordered steak + chicken. Well, mine was just an ordinary piece of sirloin on a kibob, but the soup was out of this world. It was a wild rice concoction with tiny bits of ham. So delicious I’ll never be able to duplicate so I won’t try. Their prices were a little high, but the atmosphere was attractive + we enjoyed it after the long day’s drive.
Our room at the Best Western Empire Tower was lovely + we enjoyed a swim before dinner. The motel lived up to the 3 star rating.
Bert tried to send messages out but couldn’t connect on the Internet.
We had a great day. The mileage now is 1506.
5-24-99 Sioux Falls, S. Dak. - Bismarck, N. Dak.
Our breakfast was complete with cereal, banana, skim milk, muffin + juice + coffee. We slept in a little longer + didn’t get away as early as usual: 8:30.
It was another bright + sunny day + we stopped at the amazing corn palace in Mitchelle. This is a fanciful Moorish-style building covered with patterns created from various natural shades of corn + outlined with grasses + grain. It’s redesigned annually.
From there we continued on Rt. 90 to Chamberlain where we stopped at the Visitor’s Center.
We continued along following the scenic Missouri R. route of rich farm land, rolling hills, large herds of cattle + and never have I seen the sky bluer or the grass greener.
We followed the Lewis + Clark H’way signs + took a 4 mi. dirt road to the river – one of the sites where they landed.
Mid-afternoon we made a phone call in Pierre (Peer), the capital to make our reservation for tonight at the Comfort Inn in Bismarck.
This was an especially long day of driving with beautiful scenery. The only glitch was our clothes pole broke + all the clothes that were neatly hung spilled.
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| Clothes pole "glitch" |
We opted for carry out food tonight as we wanted to see the last segment of “Mad About You.” It was just O.K.
Our room is very comfortable + very reasonably priced.
We’re looking forward to tomorrow’s tour of the capital.
P.S. On the 4 mi. dirt road to the river we met a young calf on the road who eyeballed us. As soon as I got my camera out, he darted across the road. However I did manage to get a good shot of a mother cow with her calf crossing the dirt road. That made my day.
5-25-99 Bismarck, N. Dak. - Miles City, Mont.
This was a super motel + excellent breakfast. So much to see here! Our first stop today was at 8 am at the capitol bldg.
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| Bert and van at the North Dakota State Capitol |
Then we drove to Mandan + visited the Fort Abe Lincoln Park where we took pictures of the Earth Mounds built by the Mandan Indians.
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| Mandan Earth Mounds |
We decided on going back to Bismarck as we’d heard so much about the Lewis + Clark Interpretive Museum at Washburn, we had to forego our plans to make Billings our stop for tonight. Are we glad we decided to take the time to drive north about 30 mi. to see it. Everything was so well displayed about all you’d ever want to know about these two courageous men was there - hands on materials, paintings, relics, maps, etc. When these men + their party came to this area on the Missouri R., Lewis and Clark stayed here four months, then returned here on their way back from the Pacific O. An amusing incident was reading about the medicines they took. Lewis administered (prescribed) Dr. Rush’s “thunder-clapper’s” prescription for practically everything + Lewis took 50 dozen of these pills with them.
We took county road west, then south to Dickinson where we picked up Rt. 94 again + made a reservation for tonight’s lodging at miles City, Mont. We still had several hundred miles to drive, but the scenery was exquisite + the 75 mph speed limit got us here in time for a nice swim at the Best Western War Bonnet Inn + a prime rib dinner at a local family restaurant. We drove 400 miles today.
5-26-99 Miles City, Mont. – Bozeman
The mileage as we drove in to the War Bonnet Inn (Best Western) was 2,338 miles. When we checked in to the Western Heritage Inn at 6:30 this evening, the mileage read 2867, so you can see we put in a full day on the road.
First of all, we decided the van needed a lube + bath, so while he van was being cared for at Wal-Mart, we outfitted ourselves in new jeans as this is the Western wear + it’s all we’ve had on for the past few days.
Since we changed our itinerary today, we decided to get off the interstate today + drive state rt. 59 to Jordan + up Rt. 87 to Great Falls. What a treat. It was marvelous country + we saw many different types of terrain from prairie to snow capped mountains. Quite a few antelope were spotted as well as magpies, deer, horses, cattle + Bert even saw a coyote! Miles + miles of sagebrush + grass land were seen for miles + miles. (Redundant – sorry!)
At Great Falls we had a time finding the Visitors Center because of detours, but when we located it, it was worthwhile as the lady there was very helpful.
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| Statue of Lewis & Clark in Great Falls, MT |
After we left the falls, we took Rt. 15 down to Helena, the capital, then Bozeman, + it was the most spectacular drive I’ve ever taken through the Helena National Forest. It’s a combination of sagebrush, bunch grass to douglas fir, lodgepole pine + spruce with the beautiful Missouri R. meandering through it. Just beautiful.
We checked in at the motel. I used the whirlpool (too much chlorine), + steam room. We showered + had dinner at the 4B restaurant.
This was a full day – 10 hrs. on the road + over 500 miles, but just great – very fulfilling.
5-27-99 Bozeman – Missoula
Our accommodations at the Western Heritage Inn were quite nice. In the lobby + breakfast area we had a rustic décor with stuffed animals on the wall: a Kodiak bear, caribou, elk + deer.
The first stop was to tour MSU [Montana State University] where Ryan will be a freshman in Aug. We were impressed with the attractive bldgs. + took some pictures.
We stopped at the County Market + bought apples for our daily lunch. Then I made a reservation for a room this evening at the Bel-Air Motel in Missoula.
We stopped at AAA for maps + then drove to at Three Forks + took pictures of the Madison, Jefferson, + Gallatin Rivers which form the Missouri R. + this is the Headwater where the Missouri begins.
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| Hammy at the headwaters of the Missouri River |
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| Bert & Hammy |
Our next stop was at the Berkeley Open Pot Copper Mine at Butte. From there we traveled to Missoula on I-90, a distance of about 85 miles + got here mid afternoon in time to do laundry + take a swim in the indoor pool.
We’ve now driven 3,096 miles + the couple in the room next to us at the Bel-Air Motel came from Pensacola where they were attending the Brownsville Assembly of God. Small world!
After our swim we got cleaned up + found an interesting Old World Cooking type restaurant. It’s the Perugia + tonight they featured Greek food in addition to Italian menu. Bert had lasagna which he said was not your typical Sam’s. Mine was Greek: Pastitso (Pasta + Veal Casserole) Moussaka, Eggplant + Lamb, Cypriot sausage + Sweet Spiced Rice – Delicious.
Bert sent E-mail messages while I made motel reservation at Comfort Inn in Walla Walla, Wash. for tomorrow.
Nice relaxing day.
5-28-99 Missoula, Mont. - Walla Walla, Wash.
The mileage starting out today is 3100. We had to eat at McDonalds as the motel office wasn’t opened. The Bel Air is definitely not a AAA facility + should be removed from their list of accredited motels.
Our day was perfect otherwise. We bought apples, our daily lunch, at Safeway + began the beautiful Lolo Pass Drive through the beautiful Clearwater National Forest. We followed the Selway River to Lowe R, Idaho, stopped at the ranger’s station + learned about the paving of the highway in ’62, and observed white water rafting on the rough Locksa. The lady here at the Powel Ranger Station told us that $2 million dollars was the cost in ’57 appropriated for paving this road + it was Sen. Gore (Al’s father) who was instrumental in passing this bill.
We took pictures of the numerous places L+C + company landed + there are a lot of plaques that tell their story of the hardship Lewis + Clark endured especially going over the mountains to reach the coast.
*Fish hatchery at Orofino, Ida.
The scenery all along Lolo Pass is splendid, good highway, interesting towns, changes in elevation, winding roads, rough water, etc.
We stopped at the Nez Perce National Historic Park at Kamiah, ID + the museum had a lot of artifacts + saw a 23-minute film which was interesting. Although the Nez Perce Nation lost alot of territory because of an unfair settlement, they were very friendly with Lewis + Clark because they were kind to the Nez Perce + established a good relationship with them. The man who was narrating the filmed praised them (L+C) for helping them.
After passing Lewiston, Ida., the highway was less winding + we made better time. All told it was a long drive, but well worth it. We drove over 380 mile + it took us about nine hrs because of all the stops.
Our motel is beautiful accommodations a *** Comfort Inn – gorgeous roses – indoor pool + whirlpool + cookies + coffee in the lobby. Only problem - Bert couldn’t get on the Internet!
Had a delicious dinner at Jacob’s across the way. Jared Jones, quarterback at FSU [Florida State University] was our Server in Walla Walla, Wash. Small world.
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| Jacob's Restaurant where Jared Jones was the server |
We left the beautiful Comfort Inn at 8:30 + the mileage was 3422. We took Rt. 11 through the Umatilla Indian Reservation. After that, + kept going west because there weren’t any historical markings, we drove on through Pendleton on Rt. 84. The mill was closed since it’s Sat. so we couldn’t take a tour. On through beautiful rolling hills – foothills of the Cascades into Ore. shortly after leaving Walla Walla.
Our next stop was The Dalles where the Columbia River narrows here + the French christened it “les dalles,” meaning “the trough” + Lewis + Clark described it as “the great Indian mart of this country.” The Columbia Gorge is beyond words – it’s breathtakingly beautiful here. We took the train out to the lock + dam + watched the salmon, shad + sturgeon climbing the ladders enroute to the Pacific where they spawn, then die, ending the cycle.
On the Hood River, north of the Columbia, we saw many wind surfers going at a rapid pace. Along our route were beautiful tall Douglas firs from the peaks to the highway + large numbers of forsythias were mixed in between. What a beautiful sight – the bright yellows with the tall pines. All along this scenic route was the majestic Mount Hood looking over the whole area – Mt Hood National Forest.
We were still on the Lewis + Clark Trail + stopped at the L+C State Park to take pictures. One plaque said "They loved salmon + stayed awhile." The salmon do swim up to this area + we saw one that a couple caught + they said it weighed about 18#.
This being Memorial Day weekend, rooms were hard to find + the prices are high. Gas is $1.59 gal. We found a nice comfortable beautifully furnished **Best Western + after dinner we decided it was a full day! The Fortniter suite was so nice; the owner was so helpful that it should be rated ***. Their suggestion to try Steamers for dinner was excellent - an attractive, roomy place with stained glass windows + oriental rugs. Good choice.
May 30, Portland, Ore. - McChord AFB
The mileage is now 3685. We began touring Portland about 9 am after a very complete + satisfying breakfast.
We had to leave the Lewis + Clark trail here as we had lots to see + we didn’t want to be on the road too long. So we said “adieu” at the Columbia + bid these two brave men on to the Pacific Ocean + the Clatsops where they were well fed before they prepared for their return trip home.
After viewing the beautiful Rose Garden in Peninsula Park, which is one of the largest sunken gardens in America, we wandered around for what seemed to be hours before finding the fabulous Japanese Gardens.
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| Hammy & Bert at the Rose Garden in Peninsula Park |
It wasn’t too late to take a trip up the mountain to see the famous Mt St Helens that erupted violently in 1982. More than 1300 feet of the mountain’s top cascaded into the Toutle River Valley below destroying 150,000 square acres of forest + killing everything above ground. Fifty-seven people perished. Now the land blooms again + fish swim in the rivers + lakes.
We saw an excellent 15 min. film at the Interpretive Center which was about 5 miles from Hwy 5, then to get a closer look, we drove another 40 miles on SR504 because it was a gorgeous day + the highway was good. Were we glad we took the extra time to view the spectacular sight because we were within 4 miles of it! We would’ve liked to stay longer but had to move on.
Tonight’s lodging was more than we expected at McChord AF Base in Tacoma - beyond words. We got the key to a beautifully furnished apartment: living room with TV, VCR, desk for computer, dining area, kitchen (new appliances), new bath – double sink, + bed with huge closet, another TV + VCR. I think we’ll stay! Oh, yes – TV dinners, frozen breakfast meals in frig, so we’ll eat here. A great day! Mileage: 3941.
5-31-99 McChord AFBase, Wash. – Whidbey Island
We left our lovely Airey Suite of the Evergreens Inn after making breakfast in the microwave, doing some laundry, ironing + packing + checking out at 11:30. We picked up a few items at the BX, then headed north on Rt. 5 in a drizzling rain. By the time we got to Seattle the windshield wipers were going full speed. At the Mount Vernon exit we left rt. 5 and drove approximately 20 miles toward Whidbey Island. The rain stopped + the sun was shining brightly. We passed the beautiful Deception Pass State Park + the 182 ft high bridge over swirling waters. The name “deception” comes from the explorer, George Vancouver, who thought Whidbey was merely a peninsula rather than an island. There are a lot of birds in the area, but it’s quite windy so we’ll look for them tomorrow on our way to Vancouver.
There’s not much to report here. We’re happy to have a nice clean room for the night at the BOQ – nothing fancy. As we came back from dinner at McDonald's, we parked next to a naval officer from Pensacola! We agreed we’d rather have the hot humid weather there than this fierce north wind!!
6-1-99 Whidbey Island, Wash. - Vancouver, B.C.
We started out this morning in a drizzling rain in Oak Harbor + as we approached Rt. 5 going toward Bellingham, it was raining hard. We stopped at the Travelodge + confirmed our reservations for Mike + Donna + us for later in the week. We called Ryan + Leslie + left a message that we would see them Thurs.
It was a short drive to Vancouver + we stopped at the Tourist Information Center to check on reservations for tonight + tomorrow night. The girl there was very helpful in directing us to an area accessible to downtown for motels less than an arm and a leg. She also gave us good directions for finding this place as well as directions to a Chev. garage. Unfortunately the hook broke that holds the clothes rod + we have to get a replacement tomorrow – hopefully.
We checked into nice clean comfortable Quality Inn in a multi-national neighborhood about 2:00 pm., got a bite to eat after unloading everything in the van + started out driving in the rain to find Stanley Park.
It was raining pretty hard when we left the motel, so I didn’t bother taking my camera. What a mistake this was! It’s a good thing we decided to stay here another day because we wanted to get some pictures of the beautiful gardens. When we stopped at the Tea House restaurant to take in the view, the view of the Strait of Georgia was spectacular.
We came back to the motel, looked over our travel brochures + decided we drive to Grouse Mtn. tomorrow for an overview of the area.
Dinner was downstairs at the Jaguar restaurant where we had shrimp stir fry (me) + Monte Cristo + salad for Bert.
We’re anxious to see more of this international city + look forward to our travels tomorrow!
6-2-99 Vancouver
This was an unusually beautiful day, unlike yesterday when it was cold, windy + rainy. We took advantage of the weather to go sightseeing.
First we had to go to the Chev. dealer to have the part replaced on the van that broke. This was a relatively simple procedure + took just a few minutes to install once the part was located. Now we can hang up our clothes even though it cost us an arm and a leg. Chev. you’ll hear from us!!
By 10:30 we were on our way to Grouse Mountain. From downtown we followed Georgia St. westbound through Stanley Park across Lion’s Gate Bridge + on to Capilano. We didn’t stop at the Suspension Bridge as it was too scary. The scenery in the northern part of Vancouver is even more beautiful than the brochures + well worth a trip to the mountains.
We rode the tram a distance of 3700 ft. to the top of the mountain. It was fun walking in the snow + taking pictures. Theatre in the Sky was the video that was excellent. We got a panoramic view of all the city, took more pictures and saw everything we tried to see yesterday.
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| Hammy with wood carving at Grouse Mountain |
The area where we are staying is in Burnaby + it’s located near the Metro so people who commute are not dependent on cars. Good! If we would be here for longer we’d use this means of transportation rather than battle the traffic.
We made a trip to Safeway next door + bought our supply of fruit.
Had dinner again at Jaquar’s next door as it’s so convenient.
Bert has been so frustrated trying to get on line for two days. After numerous phone calls, he did get connected + it was so good to get + Bert was so happy to finally get online + send out messages to family + friends. It was a good ending for a full day.
The mileage is now 4,324 miles.
6-3-99 Vancouver – Bellingham
We packed up and checked out around 9:00 a.m. and it was just 25 miles to the U.S. border + another 24 miles to Bellingham. We took 91A across the Fraser River + onto the States via Rt. 91 – a beautiful day + a beautiful drive. It was early when we got into the area, so we took a drive along the Birch Bay area + stopped at a Family Medical Clinic + made an appointment to see a doctor to check my thumbs this afternoon.
Since our room was ready, we checked into the Travelodge + it appears to be acceptable for our three days in Bellingham for Ryan's graduation.
This afternoon we drove up to a quaint little city called Lynden. I saw a doctor who looked at my thumbs + advised me to keep them hot + dry, + to see my doctor when I get back home. He was an Ohio State graduate + very personable, Dr. Jeff Ries.
Ryan came over + picked us up and we went to his place for dinner. They had a wonderful meal for us: grilled salmon, rice, and salad. It was very good and we had a nice visit with Leslie and Sam.
The awards assembly at Schome High School was very interesting. Many students were honored in various categories. Ryan received a scholarship to Montana State in Bozeman + we’re so proud of him! At the end of the awards, the students + faculty gave a cheer: “Sun, sun, sun” as that’s what everyone is praying for tomorrow as it will be much nicer having graduation outside. We’ll see.
They served refreshments afterwards, and Ryan introduced us to all his close friends. We were so glad + really impressed with all these such nice kids and their enthusiasm for pursuing further education.
6-4-99 Bellingham
We drove over to a pretty little community called Fairhaven + saw the station + the rose garden. You can catch the Alaska ferries here. We drove along the scenic Chuckanaut Dr. + on a clear day you can see the San Juan Islands, but it was cloudy + misty, so we didn’t take any pictures. There were magnificent views of Puget Sound.
After a trip to the local supermarket, where we bought fruit, we took another drive along Lake Whatcom Blvd. where we saw the beautiful falls + lake. We stopped at the fisheries there + saw huge tanks of cold water fish – trout, salmon + char.
We made a reservation for lodging tomorrow night at Moses Lake Travelodge.
Donna + Mike drove in about 2:00 from their long flight from Seattle, so we let them rest a couple hours.
Ryan came over at 5:30 + took us to the Marina for a wonderful meal of seafood + salad.
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| Donna, Mike, and Ryan |
Another rainy day - we had to don raincoats all day, but these folks are used to it, + just take it for granted that it’s typical Wash. weather. In spite of the inconvenience, we had a wonderful day.
6-5-99 Bellingham - Moses Lake
This morning we did laundry, packed + checked out. Donna + Mike joined us + we went over to Leslie's for brunch. It was lovely. We met more of Ryan's friends. Since we had to be over at the school at 11:30 to park for the graduation, we said our good-byes there. It is a good thing as there was no way to find Ryan in a crowd of over 3,000 people there after graduation.
We were really impressed with all the speakers, especially Nick Stevens, the class president + the principal + superintendent.
There were over 300 graduates + Ryan sat in a row nearest us + we sat in the 10th row of the bleachers with Mike and Donna and could see Ryan + had a good view of the whole class. The convocation was held in the W. Wash. U. auditorium because of rain. (It was another rainy + breezy day!)
The Schome Mariners is a great school + this was not only a highlight of the seniors’ year, but a highlight of our entire trip!
We left for Moses Lake at 5 o’clock + arrived here at 9:30. It was just beginning to get dark. It’s out on the prairie land + coming into town we saw all the crops grown here as the names are printed on the fences. Sweet corn, field corn, wheat, hay, alfalfa, sugar beets, oats + potatoes are grown here due to their irrigation system. Otherwise it would just have been miles + miles of sagebrush.
As we followed Rt. 5, 405, + 90 these are the areas we passed: the Sgagit River, Wenatchee National Forest, outskirts of Seattle, Lake Sammanish, Snoqualmie National Forest, + Ellensberg. This latter place is where the Wenatchee, Nez Perce, + Yakama Indians hunted + fished peacefully. The Yakama River runs along the highway and the Columbia is also here in the Ellensberg area. The whole trip through the Cascades was beautiful + we saw a huge brilliant rainbow + another one that was muted.
The mileage is now 4725.
6-6-99 Moses Lake - Bozeman, Mont.
Breakfast this morning wasn’t the usual fare. This Travelodge was adequate – clean bed + shower but no breakfast included. At 5 am Sporty's Bar was opened for business. The "good old boys" rolled in, took their cups + the waitress rolled dice to see if she paid or they coughed up their 75 cents. The food was good + we never complained that everyone was smoking including the gal who served us. I’ve never heard so much laughter at 5:45.
We kept moving east by 7:15 but since we had a time change, we moved up the clock an hour. We drove 8-1/2 hours today + made good time considering the fact that we had a lot of rain + mountains to deal with.
We saw more beautiful country to Spokane, then on to Coeur d’Alene + the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. We had the time change from Pacific to Mountain in this area. We traveled I-90 past the Clark Fork + the Lolo National Forest. We didn’t drive over the scenic Lolo Pass as we did that on our way out to the coast.
We continued on I-90 through Missoula, where we stayed enroute west, and passed through the beautiful Deerlodge National Forest. At Butte we passed the Continental Divide and at Three Forks we saw the Missouri Headwaters again where the three rivers, Jefferson, Madison, + Gallatin come together + the Missouri River begins. This confluence was documented by Lewis + Clark on their trip to the Pacific in 1805.
We reached our motel, the Western Heritage Inn, early + it was good to have dome “free time.” This is where we stayed on our way out. It’s clean, safe + comfortable. Bert was able to log on while I took a long relaxing “bath” in the spa area – whirlpool + steam room. It helped clear the sinuses!!
We ate a nice meal at Fuddruckers before retiring early.
Mileage is now 5,235.
6-7-99 Bozeman, Mont. - Rapid City, S. Dak. (Wall, S. Dak.)
Mileage – 5,818
This was a long trip today but we saw beautiful scenery again, and we learned it pays to have a reservation. We took a chance that we’d be able to stay at the base in Rapid City; well, the BOQ was filled when we arrived. We made a few phone calls in Rapid City to no avail. We enjoyed seeing all the planes + activity at Ellsworth AFB. We drove another 43 miles to Wall where we checked in to a new *** Best Western at 6:00 pm – not too bad!
We left Bozeman in the rain at 39 degrees which was par for the course. We drove through the Gallatin National Forest + followed the Yellowstone River through Billings. We drove through the Crow Indian Reservation + at Exit 510 we decided to take a break + checked out the Crow Casino. We gave the Indians 50 cents, used the restroom, took a picture of the Casino + the little white church adjacent to it.
We headed east on I-90, followed the Bighorn River into Wyo. + the Bighorn National Forest. Sheridan is the largest city in Northern Wyo. + the town was once the heart of the Indian wars. Next city we passed was Buffalo which is a ranching town at the foot of the Bighorn Mtns. Its early days were not so friendly: many battles with the Sioux + Cheyenne Indians + the Johnson County War between ranchers + farmers took place in the vicinity.
We’re now in the Black Hills area of S. Dak. + there are many tourists here from all over the country. We’ve been here before with Kent + Mike so we didn’t stop at Mt. Rushmore Nat’l Monument or do any of the other tourist attractions.
A note about Wall, S. Dak. This place has been known for years as a tourist stop which started as a drug store in 1909. There is a block long Wall Drug Store with all kinds of shops in it + Main Street still has many buildings constructed during the days of western expansion. The ruts made by the wagons that carried prospectors + their supplies to the goldfields of the Black Hills are still visible on the nearby prairies. We’ve already been to the Badlands so we’ll forego that trip + we are moving on east.
6-8-99 Wall, S. Dak. - St Joe, Mo.
This was a long day today – 600 miles + 10 hrs of driving. We left at 7:15, but we set our clocks ahead to 8:15 as we go into Central Time at Murdo, S. Dak.
We passed the Black Hills area, the name given for the thick pine forest covering the slopes. The Lakota Sioux sought guidance from their ancestors here. Mining is still important in the area.
We followed the Missouri river to Chamberlain. This is the demarcation line between the corn + grain area to the east + cattle country to the western part of the state.
We passed through Sioux Falls, S. Dak. This was named for the Big Sioux River + began as a fur-trading settlement + stone quarying settlement. From Sioux City, Iowa to Council Bluffs we followed the Missouri River. We never got into Nebraska, but Omaha was just across the river.
Kansas was a welcome sight + we have a nice room at the Ramada. Used the pool area, had dinner here (St. Joe), + will retire early.
Mileage - 6,421.
6-9-99 St Joe, Mo. - Clarksville, Tenn.
Mileage 7,006
We left St. Joe about 8 o’clock + Bert did most of the driving this a.m. We crossed the Missouri River into Kansas City + the traffic was very heavy. The roads have alot to be desired with lots of construction on Rt. 70. The Missouri R. was with us again all the way into St. Louis + since we’d traveled this way on our way out, we didn’t do any exploring. Crossing the river into Ill. we passed fields + fields of corn in the Alton-Belleville area. We passed Scott AFB + at Mt. Vernon, we stopped + made a phone call to Clarksville, Tenn. to reserve a room for tonight. We planned to stop overnight at Paducah, Ky. but decided we could drive another 90 miles + have a shorter trip on Thurs.
We followed Rt.57 South + at Carbondale we stopped for fuel + something to drink as the temp. all day has been in the 90’s. I had to laugh at one of the girls, from the busload of kids, washing her hair in the sink in the restroom! Crossing from Missouri to Ill. we crossed the Mississippi River. Then when we crossed into Ky. from Ill., we went over the beautiful Ohio River. What a thrill! (You can take a person out of the hills but you can’t take the hills out of the person) + how I love that Ohio River! When we came into Tenn., we crossed the Tenn. and Cumberland Rivers.
Our "home" tonight is the best place we’ve had on the entire trip at the Executive Inn Best Western in Clarksville. We had a swim in the nice size pool + the water (outside) was nice + warm. The whirlpool was marvelous. We have a nicely furnished living room, TV + a king size bed, desk, another TV, chest of drawers, frig, microwave, walk-in closet; everything newly furnished. We lucked out on these accommodations! Had a good meal at Olive Garden. This is a beautiful area – tobacco + wheat fields or is it corn??
Drove 585 miles - 9-1/2 hours.
6-10-99 Clarksville, Tenn. – Pensacola
The mileage was 7008 when we started out at 7:15. We followed Rt. 24 out of Clarksville for about 20 miles + just as we were about to get on Rt. 65 to start our trip south to Nashville, the traffic was horrendous - cars madly crossing lanes, when I remarked “That car is about to have an accident.” I don’t know if the black car was responsible, but a very serious accident occurred + we were just five cars behind the wreck. A huge truck with a load of shingles was involved; fire trucks + emergency vehicles came zooming from all directions + it looked as though we would be held up in traffic for quite awhile. It was announced on the radio that there was a fatality + we’ll never know the particulars. Road rage is so senseless + that was positive proof of it.
We had been saying over + over again how perfect this trip had been until this accident today. The weather was cooperative all the way, we followed the Lewis + Clark trail all the way from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean, and saw beautiful country – an experience few people are fortunate enough to enjoy. We are so grateful we were able to drive this huge expanse of our great U.S.A. We shall always reminisce with delight!!
We drove a total of 493 miles today and a grand total of 7,499 - two weeks going out, three days with Ryan, Leslie, Sam + friends + five days on the return trip. Mike and Donna joined us in Bellingham!
One lesson we learned on this trip for future travels, always call ahead early in the day for motel reservations. You get the choice rooms + as a rule, better rates. We paid anywhere from $12 a night at Whidbey Island NAS in Puget Sound to $75.00 in Wall, S. Dak., home of Wall Drug.
Someday, hopefully our children + grandchildren will be able to make the trip retracing the route of these two courageous men, Lewis and Clark, on their trip out West.
“Happy birthday, Kent!” Can’t get you on the phone. Hope you got the E-mail!
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