The marriage and van survived

As we hold our first grand daughter we look to the future, but it is the past that has given us the will to continue to grow. The experience of sharing so many things in the past prepares us to gain the utmost from the future.

Three months and 12,500 miles have been shared. The 75 square feet of space has been shared for three months. The challenges of prolonged travel have been shared. All shared without incident. The time was wonderful -- except for three days scattered throughout the trip. No one can be expected to agree all the time.

The adventure allowed us to focus on the experience and on each other. The adventure allowed each of us to focus on our partner without the challenges of daily responsibilities -- similar to our dating days of times long ago. I didn't dwell on the two hours it took one of us to be ready to travel each day. Cheryl didn't dwell on the time needed to see sports venues, stops for adult beverages and someone always sitting in the middle of the only real couch. It was amazing to me that these ticky tacky issues were kept in perspective. (I have to report, however, the time was actually 2 hours and 9 minutes to get ready each day.)



Our lives grew. More importantly, our lives grew together. Our marriage, our relationship is richer and stronger for the time we spent together.


Travels with Cheryl was an outstanding event in our lives. I recommend it highly! I should amend that to read "Travels with your special person" is recommended. I hope Cheryl is satisfied to travel with me.

The van survived as well. It discarded two hubcaps for unknown reasons. It experienced one small scratch when I did not notice a post while backing up in a campground in Tennessee.


Husband, wife and Pleasure Way van returned home, but are ready to be on the road again.


Keep an eye out for us. We're the ones with the perpetual smiles on our faces. We're the ones excited about celebrating our 42 nd wedding anniversary and many more after that.

The final legs

We've decided to follow the Pacific Coast up to Lincoln City, Oregon before heading inland. The coast has treated us kindly offering sunshine and calm weather along the way. While the sun is bright as we move north it is getting cooler. We have used the furnace for the first time in weeks. The last time we turned on some heat at night was in New York in early October.
Purring along the coast we began to reminisce about the trip and started to generate a list of favorites. The list filled so quickly with highlights it is sufficient to say the trip has been a success.
We are richer for having come this way. The trip will surely be part of our lives, a very rich and rewarding part. It is more than we dreamed it would be. The sights, the people, the situations have given us a deeper understanding of the diversity that comes together to make this an incredible nation.
What resembled Peewee's great adventure when we began talking about traveling developed into what will be a highlight of our lives.

Carmel by the sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea and a little "motel therapy" has brightened the dispositions and restored our perspective (only the 6Th motel stay of the trip). Everywhere in this town we see character. The beach introduced through the sprawling branches of cypress trees, the streets lined with unique shops, the absence of chain retailers and commercialized beaches, the narrow blocks and streets yield a close, comfortable familiar feeling. Carmel has ambiance, a character that refreshes the spirits.
Modern hotels offer glitz and glamor, ambiance and amenities but the maturity of the Normandy Inn puts forth a calm, comforting aura in which to relax. We feel the road tension melt away. It also might be the maturity of the property appeals to the maturity of this traveling couple. The dining experiences are equally ladened with the same character to create an wonderful evening.
This break from the Pleasure Way revitalizes the search for opportunities filled with fun and growth. It fortifies the basic optimism that makes the trip so interesting.

One foot, so many dances

ONE FOOTPRINT, SO MANY DANCES

Walking on the beach at Morro Bay I noticed a foot print in the sand. The foot print was similar to prints I had seen on the trails in Big Bend, Texas, on the sands of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina and many places we have traveled over the last three months. That footprint, while it is basically the same, plays out so differently depending on the conditions and places where it was made. The diversity of the outcomes is wide ranging from the toil of every day work and responsibilities to the joy of local festivals.

Whether the prints are made by David Brezina as he builds his life and his future on his Iowa farm, or Nat Geraths as he manages the health care options for veterans in the Chicago VA hospital, or Minnie Smith as she bakes her pies in her Asheville, NC restaurant - the prints reflect a purposeful and positive stride from which we all benefit. Their work, like so many of our neighbors, make it possible for our people to move ahead. The foot prints of those at work create the backbone of our culture.

Those same foot prints could be seen in the entrails of the pumpkins that the people from the village of Cooperstown NY made as they came together to celebrate Fall with the annual Pumpkin Regatta. The kids in the mariachi band performing in Tucson to celebrate children's literature made smaller versions of the prints. The surfers we've seen all along the California Coast create more of the foot prints in the sand. These prints of joy add cultural fiber to the backbone to make a more complete culture.

We are able to celebrate because we can dance so differently.

ONE FOOTPRINT, SO MANY DANCES.

Pacific Coast Highway

A less traveled road without a schedule is proving interesting as we slowly move along the Pacific Coast Highway. Each passing mile brings new sights and situations. From overstated wealth to the homes and communities of those struggling to make a living can be seen as we drive along. From the youthful vitality of the surfers riding the waves to the checker boards in the sun outside the retirement homes all ages can be seen along the roadway. From the high rises filled with people pursuing their jobs and careers to the RV parks filled with retirees or vacationers seeking relaxation line the highway.
The diversity we have experienced throughout the trip is evident mile by mile as we move along the coast. Living side by side are people who approach life so differently. This makes our experiences interesting.

Another observation I had not considered is the vastness of the agriculture industry along the coast. I had long held the opinion that California agriculture centered in the interior valleys. To see mile after mile of produce, some being planted, some being harvested surprised me with its vastness. Again the huge fields of produce growing beyond the reaches of the developers wanting plant the foundations of new condominiums. I hope the developers are never granted the opportunity to replace these fields. That hope is based on two reasons. First, the fields are nice to see. (I was going to say something about the aesthetics of seeing the fields, but I couldn't spell aesthetics.) Secondly, as evidenced by the shape of my body, I like to eat.

An amazing fact as we move into the 11th week of travel and have covered over 11,000 miles is that we have turned on the windshield wipers twice. One time in Alex Bay, New York and once in Pennsecola, Florida each occasion we drove through a thunder storm of relatively short duration.

A Down Day

Time to leave San Diego. That in itself is a bit of a downer. To enjoy the ocean and beaches as much as possible we decided to travel up the Pacific Coast Highway from San Diego to Oregon. As we came into the Los Angeles area we recognized the Santa Monica pier from movies and tv so decided to stop.
This is where the real downer began. Approaching the pier we saw the plaques and equipment for Muscle Beach. I approached the site. No one invited me to join them.
Just to the right we see the beach volleyball courts where all those people with buff bodies frolic in the sun and sand. Much to my chagrin, once again, no one invited me to join.
At this point I did what any good, red blooded American couch potato would do when the ego is bruised by reality, I found a bar on the pier and had a beer. The beverage was tasty.
Guess the day wasn't a total loss.

Back to the Pacific

Out of the desert to find the ocean breeze. San Diego greeted us with great weather and a variety of tourist activities. Even sitting in the campground sipping an adult beverage brings a contented smile to our faces and warm feelings for this life we are living.
Cheryl puzzled yesterday, "Why would anyone move away from here?"
After some thought I could not think of a good reason. In fact leaving after a few days of visiting will be a challenge. This is close enough to home to return soon and regularly. The warm weather, the swimming pool, Balboa Park with its museums, the zoo and then the waterfront calls.
We enjoyed dinner after walking along the water and meandering through Seaport Village. The sunset over the water viewed from the restaurant was enough to ensure a memorable evening. The days are memorable as well. While thoughts of returning home begin to play in our mind, the beauty of San Diego calls us to enjoy the days here to the fullest.

Understanding life's challenge

One last reflection from Tucson.
In my best imitation of middle school mentality I must say, "She made me do it!"
I knew sooner or later my wife would get me in trouble. At the mission last Saturday we saw what looked like a bride and her attendants lining up in the back of the church. As we viewed the displays and artifacts in other buildings we heard the blare of a trumpet leading a mariachi band as part of the celebration in church.
My wife lured by the music turns to me and asks, "Wanna crash a wedding?"
With that kind of pressure I succumbed to the temptation of an inexcusable social error and quietly slipped into the back of the church. What a happy event we witnessed.
I was not able to kiss the bride.
I share this event so everyone realizes the pressure I endure to try to live a proper life, understand the challenges with which I must live each day.
It's kind of fun.

Tucson

As was previously stated we have found so many things and conditions we sought when we stopped here in Tucson including the food item of the hour. A chili dog was immediately located, purchased and dispatched with appropriate style. Our needs have been met for now.
Opportunities to visit air and space exhibits, historical sites and demonstrations, city conditions, desert conditions, science and entertainment. All this in what is pleasant Oregon summer conditions even though they are cooler fall days for the locals. Sooner or later I fear I will have to retire the shorts and sandals,but alas, it won't be in the immediate future.
The Desert Museum visit yesterday was one of those stops that left me thinking after viewing the outstanding displays. The goal, to understand the desert was carried out throughout the large outdoor exhibits -the desert's plants, its animals, its reptiles, its geology displayed in natural settings. The common theme is how these species have adapted for survival in this environment.
I guess we are all like that to some extent. We bend to exist in the space we occupy. Those who can adapt themselves to the space and still others are able to adapt the space to themselves. The ability to accomplish these adaptations determines our level of fulfillment. Making peace in the space granted is the first step. With peaceful acceptance we can begin the analysis of what we have. This understanding gives us the power to begin the adaptation process which leads to an improved level of life.
In a slide show at Saguaro National Park a Native American stated that within his religious beliefs we, as man, come from the earth and return to it in death. Therefore, we respect the earth, that with dignity, love and kindness because our ancestors are part of it and it is the source from which our progeny will come forth.
In current terms: Respect the earth for it is our past AND our future.
That same slide show concluded in dramatic fashion as the large screen we had been viewing retracted into the ceiling and the background curtains quickly opened revealing a panoramic view of the desert. From the darkness of the theater to the brilliance of the intense sunlight the view was filled with acres and acres of Saguaro cacti.
Today we visited a mission church, San Xavier, built in the 1700s. A mass was being celebrated while we were there. It also caused me to think that the same mass has been celebrated in that church, at that altar, attended by catholics for nearly 300 years. Another way of preserving a heritage.

We found it!!

After two uneventful days of travel it might have been the grapefruit tree, or maybe the lemon tree on the other side of us. Maybe it was the lighted palm trees, or possibly the hot tub at the RV site. Whatever it was, this RV park in Tucson feels like the place to stay for a while. I don't think the title will change to "Travels without Cheryl" because I think she likes it here as well, but it could if she wishes to move on too quickly. If that is the case -- I'm going to miss her. The park, the weather, the possible activities have made Tucson a favorite for us.
After traveling over 10,000 miles since early September, seeing so many places, it surprised us to be so taken by what was presented here in Arizona. We have at least 3 days of activities ranging from art and natural history to air and space displays, wildlife to historical tours. We plan to stay busy AND enjoy an outstanding RV Park. The weather in the 80s is also easy to take.
If no postings to this blog occur for a few days you can rest assured we are keeping busy -- and enjoying every minute of it.
This how life is meant to be lived.

The search for Rouladen

Over the last few weeks a German dinner with rouladen, beef roll filled with a pickle, onion, bacon, mustard sauce and other seasonings has been a menu we sought. Since Texas has many German settlements stops were selected in towns where we thought rouladen would be served. Success avoided our efforts. But today in West Texas rouladen came to us at a lunch stop at an old hotel in Alpine, Texas. As we prepare the left overs this evening we feel free to move on to something else exotic, maybe like a chili dog.
While the search for rouladen raged, we did make some other discoveries. I did not know Texas had mountains reaching nearly 8000 feet high. In Big Bend National Park we discovered mountains, beautiful mountains rising out of the desert. Dinner with two other couples in Chisos Basin, a basin formed by high mountains with a window to the west so you can enjoy the spectacular view of the sunset as you sip wine with an excellent dinner, but alas, it wasn't a rouladen dinner.
We dined with a couple from the Texas Gulf Coast who had just finished serving as judges at the annual Terlingua Chili Cook Off and another couple. He is a Poli Sci professor and his wife a German immigrant which further inflamed the rouladen fires. The diversity of background created interesting dinner conversation and thought provoking ideas.
While in Big Bend we found it is possible to have temperatures in the 90s in November. A 6 mile hike was very difficult with elevation, the heat and my pudgy body taken into consideration. This consideration would have been wise to have before embarking on the trek over the rocky terrain that absorbed even more heat. After a while I forgot the rattlesnake possibilities along with the other native residents of the region that can ruin the day and just walked until the air conditioning of the Pleasure Way welcomed me home. Cold water, ice cream and rest eventually brought the body temperature back to normal.
The hike brought new sounds. The desert birds and insects made sounds I had not heard. Even the breeze, when there was some, sounds differentthan in the forests of the Pacific Northwest. I am used to the smell of conifers, fir and pine, when I walk. The desert smells differently. it is a treat to the senses to hike in this new environment. Demanding as it was, the hike was well worth it. It woke up some things we seldom think about.
Part of the time I walked above the Rio Grande River looking across it into Mexico. This sight drives home the folly of trying to close off a border that runs for hundreds of miles in a desolate corner of the country. To think a border defined by nothing more than an Oregon creek can be closed is purely unrealistic thinking, but it makes for popular political rhetoric.
This was a day of role reversal where the Pleasure Way just sat in the shade and we traveled. Upon further deliberation I think we will go back to having the Pleasure Way covering the mileage and we just sit.
I learned some other things in this area.
1. You can stop and watch a tarantula spider cross the road.
2. Javelinas are ugly
3. Javelinas have a disposition to match their looks.
4. In West Texas a warning sign for a dangerous curve suggests you slow to 60 mph.
5. In SWest Texas there are no turnouts for scenic drives or vistas.
6. Wind can really blow and weather changes without warning. After 90 yesterday the high temp today was predicted to be in the 50s.

As has been the case throughout this trip every corner of the country produces new experiences and new opportunities in wonder and awe.
How fortunate to be able to experience these small pieces!!

Grand daughter and parent fun

Celebrating halloween with the most beautiful young lady is a special treat even though she did not appreciate the catepillar costume. A great deal of appreciation was accorded to the carved pumpkins placed on the porch. I must say the pumpkin located on the left closest to the door exhibits a great deal of flair for the artistic. While modesty forbids me from identifying the creator of this work of art I must say it was an enjoyable evening carving pumpkins to help Audrey celebrate her first halloween.

The time spent with Jason's newly expanded family was a warm, fulfilling experience as we watched him interact with his wife and daughter. To see him engage in parenting, as we have watched our oldest son, Tom, do so in the past is to feel fulfillment that the torch is being ably passed to a new generation. The optimism and hope for the future is the true gift we can offer to our children. The mounds of plastic and simulated wood pale in comparison to this gift of future.

Special events come and go. Hope and optimism can be part of the core that lasts forever.

Austin, Texas

Sometimes it is the pauses in travel that are the most inspiring.

A new grandaughter leads the list of inspirations.

Audrey Y Nhi Nguyen Gries -- more inspiration to follow.

Two years later

We spent this morning touring the area where I worked responding to Hurricane Katrina two years ago. Two years ago I daily worked to help a community come to grips with death and destruction. There was the despair. There was the overwhelming task of facing loss as strangers reached out to help the locals.
The heat, the humidity, the debris, the destruction together assaulted our efforts every day. Initially, we could only offer water and limited food to those who lost so much. Where do they start was asked in those days. What can we do seemed like an unanswerable question. Why did this happen was another. So many questions, so few answers.
I know our nation responded. I know so many offered their prayers. So many offered the money they could share so that those of us that had the time to go and extend to the victims the intangibles of love and caring. We could offer them hope and help put their world back together.

Today, Veterans Boulevard was an ordinary business thoroughfare. Traffic moved along accessing the open stores, stopping at traffic lights - all the normal activities you might expect. Without water, electricity, communication systems nothing was functioning 2 years ago. The broken windows, the toppled signs, the flooded buildings prevented any normal activities. In fact police broke into some businesses to gain access to needed supplies and equipment.
The normal routine today is a tribute to resiliency and optimism. Those who had the qualities led the charge to the normalcy we saw today.
The Motel 6 severely damaged in the storm had restored one room to use before I left 2 years ago. The motel manager offered the use of that room to the Red Cross out of his appreciation for what the volunteers were doing. I was allowed to spend one night in that room out of consideration for the hours I worked in the sun each day. The humidity and the lingering smell of mold were small distractions when an offer is made to sleep in a real bed instead of a metal bunk.
Today the Motel 6 is a normal motel doing business as usual. It, like so many examples on Veterans Boulevard, serves as a tribute to man's ability to respond to adversity. No one can overcome a challenge of this magnitude by himself. Collectively we can solve anything that threatens our survival.
Two years later normal life has returned to this area because people came together to make it so.

Gulf Coast travel

Our sheltered experiences living under an umbrella in Oregon didn't prepare us with a strategy when we see extremely dark clouds ahead. We simply looked at each other and said, "Looks like we're about to get rained on."
The locals had a more practical response. They turn to the radio or tv to locate the severe thunder storms and tornado warnings. Whatever the process, we chose wisely. We stopped in Milton, Florida instead of Mobile, Alabama area as we planned because we felt like stopping. We then joined the locals watching the news reporting two tornados touching down in the Mobile area.
The reporters instructed everyone to go to an interior room if a tornado struck. As I looked at the Pleasure Way I found 50 square feet, none of which was an interior room. This seemed to me to indicate we might be vulnerable, but even more vulnerable if we had gone to Mobile as planned. We did learn, however, what a real rain storm is like. It is the kind where living under an umbrella serves as no protection.
The Mississippi coast line still bares the scars of Katrina. Everywhere are foundations that once held homes and businesses. To our left were miles and miles of white, sandy beaches. To our right were the remains people's dreams. A few have begun to rebuild. Some have hardly attempted to clean up the devastation. Wafflehouse Restaurants have built restaurants every few miles along the devastated area. One casino has been rebuilt to its pre hurricane presence. It will take a decade or more to return the area its beauty.

Charleston, SC and points south

Wanted a taste of antebellum south so went to Charleston and got the flavor enough to know this also makes it to the list of places to return and linger longer. The history, the efforts of restoration and presentation of their past is very well done. The weather continues to cooperate with us. Sunshine, warm temperatures always make visits more pleasant. If we had hit Charleston at the same time as a hurricane our opinion might be different.
Concern was raised at the RV park outside of Charleston, a very well kept park, but it had a sign posted by the small lake. To me there was redundancy in the postings. The upper sign read, "No swimming" which is an understandable request. The sign immediately below it read, "Do not feed the alligators". If the first sign did not get me to stay away from the water, the second guaranteed compliance.
Driving through South Carolina I noticed a sign that smacked of a help wanted for a position in our advertising dept. The sign read "scenic marsh views". Advertising their proximity to a swamp did not entice me to seek them out so I could sleep with mosquitoes and alligators.
Today we leave Jacksonville, Florida, the southeast corner of our trip. We head west from here along the gulf coast. By week's end we will be holding our new grand daughter and complimenting her parents on a job well done. This is the first time on the trip I am thinking beyond today and the gifts that today may bring. Usually when I look ahead I can't see the opportunities placed before me to bring enjoyment to today.

Asheville, NC

How can an 87 year old lady immediately move to the trip highlight page? The answer - by having an incredible zest for life and sharing it with everyone with whom she comes in contact.
Minnie came to Cheryl's attention when she was featured on a Rachel Raye program on the Food Network. We marked Picnics in Asheville, Minnie's restaurant as a stop on this trip.
The business is small and nondescript. As we entered I saw Minnie and her son Ron, the actual owner, working in the kitchen so I stepped through the door and said hello and asked if I could take her picture. The next thirty minutes were spent experiencing Minnie and Ron's infectious spirit and passion. The twinkle in her eye, the power of her spirit are evident in every word she speaks , every pie she bakes and every meal they serve.
Ron was a Retail Business Executive in upper end merchandising. As his success grew his satisfaction from his work lessened. He sought to develop his interest in baking and food and liked the atmosphere of Asheville. So he started a business where his mother could bake every day of her life. He started the business and Minnie had her job at age 75. Twelve years later she bakes 10 hours a day five days a week. She wears a dress, make up including long eyelashes, and a smile as gracious as the queen herself. She has passed on the engaging mannerisms and the passion for life to Ron.
WE enjoyed a homemade turkey dinner for lunch that was like sitting down to a family meal. The pie we took with us was the same apple pie that Rachel raved about. There is not a chance that any of that pie will make it back to Roseburg. Following the meal Minnie and Ron graced us with some more conversation and passion for life. The trip to Atlanta flew by after our Asheville visit. Positive people have that gift to share with others.
Atlanta offered a visit with a college friend, Dan Montgomery, and Dan shared his city with us, a new generation aquarium, the World of Coca Cola and just feeling his sense of the heart beat of Atlanta. Again, it is refreshing just to around people who share positive vibes.

Great Smokey Mountains

Another night in Nashville and a morning touring noted homes in the area (Tim and Faith were home but not able to come out and visit. Told them we'd stop by he next time we're in town.) I'm not sure but I don't think we saw any teacher's home.
Found another area that made Cheryl's list of places to come back to visit - Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Tennessee. The pace and the variety of activities were very appealing. The scenery showed us the first full Fall colors as we moved into the Great Smokey Mountains. We had lunch beside the rode and just sat and absorbed the mountains, I did not know the deciduous trees make a different sound than fir. The forest talked to us in a different voice than I am used to. Even the beauty is shown differently.
We are now in one of the first cities we put on the list to visit - Asheville, NC. It was featured on a Rachel Raye show for its unique shop, Picnics. The shop is run by a lady well into her 80s and she makes outstanding pies according to Rachel. tomorrow when she opens we'll be there to sample the goods. The best thing about this is, How simple it is to move from a whim to reality.
Cheryl said, "I'd like to meet this lady."
We are here.
A few thoughts gleaned from the day that somewhat relate to this vein.
You don't stop exploring because you get old. You get old because you stop exploring.

And one I hope to live up to for years to come-
Let the mark you leave on the world be a foot print in the road less traveled.

Finally, as another man and I watched a couple pull into the RV park this evening it was obvious that the discussion the couple was having was not the most amiable. The gentleman I was with turned to me and said, "Anything with wheels or breasts will cause grief for a man sooner or later." It is not that I endorse the statement, but it is something to think about.

A final observation: A young man led us on a tour of Asheville this afternoon that held a very strong resemblance to our second son, Cheryl listened attentively to everything he said, and, upon departing gave him a tip double what a competent tour guide gets. She just smiled.
I wonder if our son knows what an easy touch she can be when she is missing him.

Memphis

Cheryl has now visited Graceland. She is thrilled and I must admit I was impressed by the presentation of Elvis Presley. While Cheryl was overloading the camera with pictures I stepped back and got a new perspective of the man- his apparent humility, his effort to overcome the anxiety he felt while on stage, his philanthropy, his spirituality and all his toys. When he was performing when Cheryl was young (I should say when Cheryl was younger) I saw the public figure of Elvis covered by news broadcasters overexposing spectacular things he was doing.
Today I saw a different portrayal, one of a sensitive person, shy in many respects, a philanthropist who on November 8, 1968 signed checks to charity totaling $40,000. At that time a teacher in Silverton, Oregon was making $5,600 per year. To give almost 8 times my annual salary to charity on one day is impressive.
Though heavily commercialized the trip to Graceland was a worthwhile experience for both of us. I'm glad I listened to my wife.
The Second stop was the National Civil Rights Museum which traced the black history to achieve freedom from slavery in the 1600's to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King. Earlier in the trip I wondered what I would have done had I stood in the streets and listened to Patrick Henry as he emotionally urged the people of Williamsburg to rebel against the crown. That same rhetoric was offered by Dr. King and others on behalf of Black Freedom. This was from my era. This was part of my generation. And what did I do?
I listened with detached interest. I went on with my life because it did not involve my world. Even though the TV pictures were telling the story I did nothing to support those efforts. I just did not understand the breadth of the situation. I did not understand the sacrifices being made. Looking back, I could have, and should have, done better.
To stand in room 306 of the Lorraine Motel and look out at the concrete where Dr. King lay after being shot was a moving moment for me. It brought home the sacrifice made for freedom.
This was a heavy day.

Kentucky

Surprises are always nice. Cheryl wanted to see the Lexington Kentucky area with its array of horse barns and pastures. So, it was off to Lexington with a stay at the Kentucky Horse Park RV Park. It turned out to be the best park in which we have stayed. The facilities were outstanding. The park is a little boisterous as LSU fans are here in their motor homes partying and strutting the stuff of fans of the number one team in the nation. The tail gating and music is a little strong for us unconnected folks.I went to the horse park because of Cheryl's interest, but I was overwhelmed with the organization. The facilities covered hundreds of acres all neatly cared for. The displays are well done and informative. The development of the horse, its relationship with man, contrasting the characteristics of various breeds were all covered with displays, demonstrations and an opportunity for hands on work. I went because Cheryl expressed interest, but I am ready to return to spend more time there because of the quality it demonstrates.
We left the campground to go to Nashville before the victory parties started . It is Cheryl's turn to humor me. We went to the Grand Ole Opry!! We saw Bill Anderson, George Hamilton IV, Jean Shepard, Patti Loveless among others. We got to the show! We were there!! Through it all Cheryl did an outstanding job of curbing her enthusiasm.

FOOTNOTE FROM THIS MORNING:

Check on the Internet this morning - Kentucky beat LSU in three overtimes. It is truly good that we left the campground before the fans returned. I met a LSU fan this evening as we checked into the Graceland RV Park (Yes, Cheryl gets to visit Elvis' Graceland tomorrow morning.) and his reply to my innocent question of "What happened in Lexington?" was simply,"We're not going to talk about it."
and we didn't.
Probably safer that way.

Virginia and West Virginia

As Willie Nelson sings, "We're on the road again." While Kevin and Kate busily juggle the demand of career, personal life, and for Kate, her Master's degree program we realize how sweet it is to be living the retirement routine. Been where they are, enjoyed it and in most ways glad it is over.
The first stop as we head west into Virginia is Monticello, the home designed, built and lived in by Thomas Jefferson. While the building and accomplishments described by the tour guides were interesting a more pungent point was driven home to me.
After days of hot weather, dressing in sandals and shorts, feeling oppressed by humidity we experienced change. As we readied to board the bus to tour Monticello Cheryl suggested I change into something warmer before we left the Pleasure Way. As we stepped off the bus on top of the mountain to begin the tour I knew immediately -
I SHOULD HAVE LISTENED TO MY WIFE!!
The wind blew. Even the bright sunshine could not help me. It was a cold autumn day, and, I had chosen poorly! I ducked in any available alcove. I stood in the middle of the tour group fighting for the space with another man who obviously had not listened to his wife either. I shivered. I shook. I finished the tour. It was a relief when we returned to the sheltering confines of the Pleasure Way.
Life with Cheryl on the road is good. It would be better if I LISTENED TO HER MORE.
The much anticipated trip through the mountains of West Virginia to see the glorious display of leaves was completed. However, we arrived, but Fall hasn't. If we wanted to see green trees we could have stayed in Oregon. A stop in Tamarack was worth it. Tamarack is the location where the craftsmen, artist and crafters of West Virginia display and sell their goods. It was SO impressive we stayed for over hours browsing and inspecting the art, crafts music and even food prepared by very accomplished artisns in each venue. A couple of books, a couple CDs to take with us comprised our purchases until we found the chef. I could not entirely pass up his offerings - the pastries were tempting, but I heard Cheryl's voice form over the years saying I should eat more vegetables. After not heeding her advice yesterday I found a way today- Fried Green Tomato Sandwich was the answer to her admonition. The new adventure was delicious. I again am reminded I SHOULD REALLY LISTEN TO HER MORE.
A brief stop at New River Bridge where sky divers jump just because it is high enough to do that sort of thing. A deep gorge spanned by an arched bridge is unique and picturesque. It would have been more magnificent if the fall colors had painted the walls of the gorge.
The trip was completed with a drive through the rugged terrain of the coal country. We had never seen coal country before and were surprised by the steep valleys and narrow hollows. Every day the Pleasure Way takes us to new sights, new experiences and new people.

What an opportunity we have been given.

Newport news, VA

It has been awhile since we've had wireless access, but today makes it all worth it. Time catch up as I sit in the beautiful morning sunshine on a bench in Nashville, Tennessee.
Newport News - Best thing about the stay in Newport News was the opportunity to hug a redhead. Daughter, Kate, and her husband, Kevin, welcomed us to their new home. After more than a month in the 40 square feet of living space the Pleasure Way offers Kate and Kevin's 2500 square foot home was a nice treat in itself.
showers in which you can actually move your arms, chairs in which you can recline were only two of the myriad options available; but to be welcomed by a hug from a red head - that's special.
We toured colonial Williamsburg, watched the period craftsman ply their trades, listened to orators speaking in the street and got pulled into the period as best we could. Regarding the orators - I think that Patrick Henry is capable of stirring up trouble for the king. He is a fiery speaker.
It caused me to think about how I would have responded had I really been there in Williamsburg. As a conservative I am slow to respond to fiery rhetoric, slow to embrace radical ideas; but, the premise from which they spoke was so compelling. Would I have been willing to stand up against the traditional line? I wonder.
The more I think about the time in Williamsburg, the more I realize how well the entire scenario is done. To be a town resident would be an enjoyable experience for a retired person.
A trip to Kitty Hawk with Kate was also a time to think about how quickly life actually passes. First, my mother was born before the Wright brothers mad their historic flight, and she watched with the rest of the world as Neil Armstrong walked on the moon. All that and all of the accomplishments in between within her lifetime.
Second, Kate's Air Force jet had a wing span wider than the first Kitty Hawk flight. Her jet could not get off the ground in the length of their historic fourth flight. Third, the very same 3 principles used in her planes are the same were identified by the Wright Brothers, but with such dramatically different results. While today's planes carry so much so far they carry considerable more than the 12 ounces of fuel the Wrights had to use. A 12 ounce fuel can hung from an upper wing strut with a gravity feed to a 2 horse power engine.
As we move back on the road we have plenty to think about - the pleasure of spending time with Kevin and Kate, the new experiences offered by Williamsburg and Kitty Hawk.
Cheryl splashed in the warm waters of the Atlantic cean for the first time. It is actually warmer than our pool at home on many occasions and 20 degrees warmer than the Pacific Ocean on the Oregon Coast.
New experiences, New thoughts

Washington D. C.

We are ready to visit the Native American Museum at the Smithsonian. Yesterday, the dry run to the rail stop went well. The actual trip began with a new adventure. The rural folks went to the city. Their willingness to engage in new adventures is commendable. Their ineptness is sometimes pathetic. I don't want to use names, but the male in this traveling duo boldly stepped up to the platform, reviewed the directions to purchase and validate the tickets. A simple process, or so it seems. Two slots - one for credit cards, another for the tickets, each clearly marked to help make the procedure go smoothly and quickly.
The gentleman from the Oregon Country steps up and smugly tells himself, "I know how to do this. We'll be on the train momentarily."
Do you know what happens when you insert your credit card in the ticket slot?
The slot pauses, considers the options and swallows the card. The traveler swallows the feeling of panic and realizes this is the perfect time to practice the Navajo spiritual practice of Hozho - find harmony in the present situation.
Hozho or not, that machine has my credit card. We have no tickets. I took a chance and tried not to be a two time loser and withdrew another credit card, carefully inserted it into the correct slot and got two tickets to the Smithsonian. A phone call to the Virginia Railway Express was next. I asked for reassurance that my credit card was secure, or destroyed, and that I was not the only idiot that could not Tell the difference between "insert card" and "insert ticket".
The return phone call was incredible. I was assured the they would send an employee out to Manassas to retrieve the card and send it to me via mail. Secondly, other people have made the same mistake and I need not feel like a damn fool, maybe a little foolish would be appropriate.
The Smithsonian Native American was interesting, not the historical presentation we had expected. Indian culture and Indians in our modern world were represented - the past carried into the future.
While it would have been understandable to present the treatment and losses the Native Americans experienced at the hands of the European settlers, the presentation focused on carrying their heritage into the future. this is another example of Hozho. We can not change what happened, we can only manage our thoughts and actions today - bring harmony to the present. No value in whining about the past. No value in worrying about the future. Create the harmony in the present. A very healthy position!!
We were pleased to see the Indian Foods label on products for sale in the Smithsonian. The label was on products made and packaged in Canyonville, Oregon by the Cow Creek Indians back home.
I hope to bring our grandsons, Tyler and Trey, to visit the display when they can understand the power and prestige the museum displays. They are enrolled members of the Siletz tribe from the Oregon Coast area. It is something they will be able to view with pride in their heritage.
On to visit our daughter and son in law, Kate and Kevin, before resuming the trip. I get to hug a redhead, love and laugh with two wonderful people, shower in a big shower and sleep in a normal bed. A few days of family time.

Gettysburg and Manassas

A day of a little learning and a little fun. The learning occurred on the Gettysburg Battlefield where we were led by one of the finest teachers I have ever heard. The man is a certified guide for the battlefield and spoke with energy, antimation and conviction so that everything he shared flowed in a smooth sequence. We understand the military tactics, the ebb and flow of the 3 days of the battle, and the pivotal events. Also highlighted was why this was such a critical battle within the war - the South with limited resources and men at their disposal to fight the war used large quantities of supplies and lost many men, a blow from which they were never able to recover.
As the guide started his presentation at the sight of the first confrontation he asked, "do we have anyone from the South with us this morning?"
After a pause he added,"You're really going to like the first twenty minutes of this tour."
After the tour I have never reached into my pocket so quickly, or so deeply, to find a tip for the guide.
Advice for anyone touring the battlefield - Allow one of those people who live this battle in their minds daily so vividly to share their vision with you.
Had lunch at the Stonebrook Tavern in th Dobbins House. Two things made the lunch special. First, the setting is a 1776 home built of stones. Lunch was in the cellar which had candles on the tables for light. The cool dankness of the room and the waitress in period costume transported us back like in the Time Machine to a time gone by. I was so swept up by the setting that when the sweet, young lass asked if I was interested in Pecan Pie, "Ya, you betcha>" was out of my mouth before I could think about an answer.
The second point that made the meal special was a pint of Yuengling Amber Ale. Doesn't go well with pecan pie, but a treat just the same.
Today in Manassas we had lunch with a couple we had visited with during the first days of our trip while still in Oregon. It is an example of the relationships that begin to form when undertaking this type of trip. They are back at work and took a long lunch break to share their home with us. Neat experience.
To help make tomorrow memorable we spent this afternoon on a dry run to get to mass transit stations so we can do it tomorrow in the Washington DC traffic.

Pennsylvania

A day of reflection caused by learning of the Milton Hershey legacy and a buggy trip through Amish country.
First, the Hershey story - Inscribed on a statue of Mr. Hershey is the line, "His deeds are his monument, His life is our inspiration."
Mr. Hershey after repeated failures as a candy maker in the major US cities returned to Derry PA and tried one more time. After his sixth or seventh shaky start he finally got a contract to sell his caramels. This time the business was successful.
As the income continued to rise the Hershey's were disappointed they were not able to have children. They decided to start a school for orphan boys and provide a family atmosphere for them to live. The school grew and in 1915 after his wife's death he donated $60 million as an endowment to keep the school going.
Currently, the school is home to 1700 students, each receiving full medical, dental care, all books and living expenses. After high school if the student wishes to go to college $77,000 is available to each person. Parents are hired to provide a home atmosphere and relationship. The facilities are beyond description. I had tears in my eyes as the guide, a former house parent, described the scene at the prom when these girls who were homeless, or severely deprived, Walk down the spiral staircase into the ballroom. The feeling that each of them must have makes me weepy as I write this. What a memory for them, as well as for those of us who stood in those marble halls.
The students are required to attend a weekly devotional. The school rules are the ten Commandments and the Golden Rule.
The legacy is still growing since Mr. Hershey willed the proceeds from the continuing sale of his candy to support the school. Therefore, every time you purchase a Hershey candy bar the profit goes to support the Milton S. Hershey School.
During the Depression he kept building gifts to the community to keep the residents employed. His impact as a philanthropist is as strong today as it was during his life. It certainly dispels the myth that everyone involved in making money is selfish and greedy. Look at Hershey, PA to see what a giving person can leave as a legacy.
The town still reflects the giving, friendly attitude and social conscience of great man.
The second reflection of the day was on a buggy ride in Lancaster County. A sweet young woman drove the horses. We were joined by a mom and kids from Brooklyn. The contrast in style and personality was something to watch. Everyone was nice, but their basic experiences were so diverse, the interaction sometimes took on the appearance of an alien encounter.
We are all part of the same country, the same world, but we bring such diversity to the table. If we are patient with each other we have so much to learn, so many gifts to share. If we could all think like Mr. Rogers, or Mr. Hershey, and take care of our neighbors.
In the long run our neighbors will take care of us.

Upstate New York

While Notre Dame was experiencing its 5th loss of the season we were experiencing the rural New York country side. The Fall colors seem to be emerging more each day. The Pleasure Way carried us along the west side of the Adirondack Mountains into Cooperstown NY and the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Seeing and hearing the names of the storied past of baseball aroused many memories and filled gaps of knowledge. The Hall is a well designed tribute to the many legends of the sport.
This museum was even better because Cheryl joined in to this visit. She found a pink baseball for our new granddaughter.
We continue to meet and engage people from many origins - so many nice people we have been able to cross paths with. What a wonderful country - the scenery and the people we have AND WE HAVE THE FREEDOM TO ENJOY IT!!
We just walked the streets of Cooperstown Sunday morning before church. We looked at the old, I mean really old, homes and soaked in the town's aura. One of the impressive finds refers to a favorite family book, THE BIG ORANGE SPLOT. We found Mr. Plumbean's house!!!! The town's regulars were down by the lake preparing for the Pumpkin Regatta where huge pumpkins are hollowed out so some one can sit in it and paddle in a race. The fun was contagious but Cheryl declined the opportunity to be a pumpkin paddler.
Small town relationships at their best.

Thousand Island, NY

For the second time on the trip I have felt overwhelmed by the natural beauty of a location. First, the Tetons. Now, the Thousand Islands - 50 miles of the St Lawrence Seaway dotted with islands, some small enough for 2 shrubs to grow on, some large enough for many buildings, most painted by the approaching season. Some have summer cottages, some have mansions and one has a castle.
We toured the area out of Alexandria Bay by boat. The tour, lunch on a floating restaurant made for a very pleasant day with sunshine leading us.
We've already traveled over 4000 miles without a problem except throwing off hubcaps (actually went back and found one of them).
The GPS is truly a useful tool. Without a clue about where to go "stable Mabel" guides us turn by turn in a pleasant, positive way. It takes the guess work, apprehension and spousal conflict out of the direction decision game.
We finish this picturesque stay with an RV site on Association Island - an RV Park on an island in Lake Ontario. What a fitting closure for this story book tour of Thousand Island.

Niagara Falls, NY

We've seen rivers. We've seen falls in rivers. We've seen high falls. We've seen low falls. We've NEVER seen anything like Niagara Falls. The falls are so impressive they call people from all over the world to see and experience them.
The river and falls are something to behold. We began with a negative feeling as we rolled into Niagara Falls NY - not well kept, expensive, but two tours pulled our attention to the natural wonder and power of the falls themselves. First, a typical travel tour orienting us to the area, its sights, the facts and the falls lit up at night. The second tour was the impact on us.The tour took us to the base of the American Falls where the spray, mist and air currents caused by the rushing water buffeted us as we walked on a scaffold traversing the rocks at the base of the falls. Next, a boat ride that moved up the river near the base of Horseshoe Falls. Again, the wind, mist and surge of the water was a reminder of the power the water exerts. The basin at the base is 180 feet deep and the current moving out of the area is 45 mph. That would explain why 40% of those who have gone over the Falls have perished. Being a daredevil can have some devastating results when they challenge Niagara.
We shared those experiences with a young man from Bulgaria who has been visiting the USA for the last year. H is experiences and impressions of the year were interesting. Also a family from Israel was with us. The family interaction was the same as you observe in American families between dad and daughters especially. The limited conversation with them and observations showed that human relationships are the same regardless of origin - the warmth, the need for contact, the approval.
An elderly couple from Illinois also kept my attention. Their trip was taking place between her chemotherapy treatments. A trip to share Niagara Falls with one another at this stage of their lives was touching. Conversation also uncovered the fact that he was an avid Notre Dame and Chicago Cub fan. Needless to say we talked more ab out the Cubs winning the division title than about this year's ND football.

Ohio

We vistied the campus of the University of Notre Dame on a sunny Fall afternoon. The leaves are starting to show the effect of the season. The mood on campus seems to show the effect of the football season: 0 - 4 is not where Notre Dame is used to being. In fact it has never been there in the history of the school. From my observation they could run this string to 0 - 8.
Unimpressive as the football season is we were impressed by the individual commitment of the students. On benches, under trees, in restaurant booths we saw individual students truly engaged in their education. During the 2 hours we spent on campus we saw students being students - no games, no loud converstions, no unstructured behaviors. I should have thought about making that kind of commitment to the books nearly 50 years ago.
We were impressed by the Notre Dame Students. As always we were impressed by the neatly kept campus. We were so impressed we left some of our coinage at the campus bookstore.
Had an opportunity to see rural Ohio- some views by intent, some unintentional; but, we saw rural Ohio. Before talking about Ohio I think it appropriate to state my amazement of the GPS system. Despite the best efforts of Cheryl and myself to keep the Pleasure Way between the navigational beacons, we strayed - strayed badly I must admit. Along the road were cornfields and prosperous appearing farms. Along the road were well kept homes and small communities. Along the road the trees are starting to show their Fall colors. But alas, these are not the things we seek.
We seek Canton, Ohio and the NFL Hall of Fame. So, after the usual spousal exchanges about being lost, we turned to the GPS, ol Stable Mabel to the rescue. Stable Mabel has been so named for we have programmed a sweet female voice. One that is never harsh on a driver that thinks he knows better. One that is never hurried. Stable Mabel quickly got us pointed in the correct direction.
The evening before we needed to find an RV Park and only had a rural street address. Turned to Mabel and she had us in the park within 10 minutes. I strongly suggest anyone who travels can be well served by a GPS tool.
Back to the rural Ohio situation - I was not lost. I knew where I was going. I just didn't know how to get there.
Many of the small communities in the mid west are so well kept. I don't think we have seen any community that reflects the pride and care we saw in Traer, IA. As we moved through the community the lawns were green and mowed, houses clean and maintained - a nice place to be.
With Mabel's advice we got to the NFL Hall of Fame with plenty of time to tour. To my astonishment Cheryl opted to stay outside. She MISSED THE HALL OF FAME!!
What she missed was pictures, videos, uniforms and shoes worn by the greatest and the best, Memorabilia from the ages- she missed it all and did not seemed bothered in the least. Some things I just can not understand. But alas, she seems to have recovered from the lost oportunity quite remarkably.
Buoyed by the excitement of all those artifacts we head up the road with a date in Niagara Falls. Maybe this will perk her up a bit.

Chicago

Restaurants, Restaurants, restaurants - what outstanding restaurants. Italian, bratwurst with sauerkraut, crab cakes and even some Cajun - all contributing to our enjoyment and our waistlines!! We have spent the last 3 days with Nat Geraths, a friend from high school and his wife, Mary Alice, seeing Chicago and the gifts and inspirations it has to offer.
The most interesting conversation has been with Nat. We graduated from high school 46 years ago, saw each other last in 1967, and went separate ways. To reconnect as we approach geezerdom is interesting. He still works as the director of a major hospital in the VA system and has had experiences throughout the world- some experiences for pleasure, some in service to those in need of medical services. It is fascinating to hear of the paths he has chosen as he moved away from the small rural Oregon town which holds our roots. His various experiences are examples of what can be accomplished if you are willing to follow your commitment to serve others in a unique way and willing to take some chances. He can be proud of his life of service and he knows he has made a difference providing the best care possible whether it was a Women's Hospital in Afghanistan or helping to heal the wounds of our veterans. The stories aside, it was nice to fall back into a dialog with a friend from long ago.
Chicago - the Art Museum, the noise and hustle of the city, the architecual boat tour, cruising the neighborhoods, seeing the universities of Northwestern and Loyola, the magnificent mile, and finally Wrigley Field. Yes! Wrigley Field!! - with its bleachers and its ivy covered outfield fence. I was there! We watched the Cubs beat Pittsburgh 8 - 0 on their last home game of the season. Wrigley is one of the two remaining old ball parks and the Cubs' fans were at their finest. The Cubs are leading their division in the National League and most likely in the playoffs. After the game most of the 41,000 people stood and sang together. It is the love affair between fans and ball club that I had imagined.
The Art museum was amazing. The skyline was spectacular. The friends were warm and comfortable. But, the visit to Wrigley was on my retirement list of things to do before I die - and I've done it. Guess that means I am one step closer.
The ball park was my own little selfish side trip. But the rest of the experience - to share that with Cheryl was special. As we rode the train back to the Geraths' this evening Cheryl leaned her head against my shoulder and I felt like a teen dating once again. Chicago inspired that romantic feeling of sharing special times with special people.
We have to thank the Geraths for offering this opportunity to us. The memory will certainly linger in our minds and in our hearts.