The notebook

20020311 Monday.

We took our time getting on the road this morning, had breakfast + read paper. We had packed most stuff in the car last night so we had our over night bags + some food stuff to fit in. We were off about 10:00 AM. Had to back track after a couple miles to get the log book + instructions + information sheet Mary Harriett had prepared. Had no delays getting to Verrazano Narrows bridge and over Outerbridge. We got on Rt. 1 for a few miles then onto 130. Followed that to the Penn Turnpike (via NJ Turnpike). We had lunch at Marcie’s Diner near Bordertown. Trip across PA scenic. Got to Lancaster about 3:30. Checked into Park Inn, went to Carol’s. Spent afternoon having tea + chatting. George came home + we visited some more. Went to dinner about 8:00 - George’s treat. Got back to the motel around 11:00. Got to reorganize my stuff. Mary Harriett read some of book to us and we had devotion. Did a little exercise.

20020312 Tuesday.

We got a leisurely start this morning. Had breakfast here - cereal, juice + coffee. Bagels and muffins also offered. Got to Carol’s about 10:30. We went to Central Marketplace. Wonderful - hope we find a few of these along the way. Mary Harriett bought some oranges to take with us. Had lunch at Cafe Chuckles. It was a victorian house at one time, built by the grandson of the people who built Carol and George’s house. She showed us pictures of it. Went to find fabric store in the Amish Country. Bought some for Winsor’s quilt and for pillow covers. Talked a lot about family, past, travel, eating and various aliments. Told her I’d try to communicate to Richard T. her regrets at the harsh words they exchanged at our last get together. Went out to dinner at an Italian restaurant. George let the dog, Robert the Bruce, come too and provided him with an order of meat balls. Got on line to get a message from Ruth P. and sent message to family. We had phone on, no one called. Ready to bed down at 10:00.

20020313 Wednesday.

We ate our oranges + bread for breakfast. Watched news before leaving room. Raining outside. Had a problem with the toilet before we left. Had no trouble getting on Rt. 30 and driving right out of PA into Maryland. Right over the border was the town of Emmitsburg, where there is site of Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton. We stopped, did a tour, visited Basilica, talked to a nice little nun there who gave us a tour. We went on into the town + had lunch in “Carriage House” - soup + sandwich, not bad. Drove on - past Harper’s Ferry, WV, on to Fort Royal. Followed Rt 340 but got off briefly. Misty + rainy most of the day. We got back on 340 but after awhile it was too slow. We drove over to Rt. 11 - up over the Blue Ridge + thru fog. Rt. 11 is busy road - thru towns + lots to see. Many cows in Va. Most are beef cow, but we did see some Holsteins. Decided to stay in Staunton. When we got in town, stopped at Lib. to ask about places to stay. Best Western was recommended + directions given. Nice place - good restaurant next door, “Mrs. Rowe’s”.

20020314 Thursday.

Had a much better breakfast today. It was very foggy in the early morning. Got started about 9:30. Took the big road (81) south to Roanoke. Stopped at library, checked e-mail and got directions for getting into center of Roanoke. We got in, parked car and went to visitor center. Walked along Market Street + Market Square. Ate at a small rest. there - we were put in the Wine cellar, no tables up on ground level. Had a nice salad bar. Walked around museum - Art + Science. Saw a knotty knotty - don’t know what it is for, maybe for winding yarn. Decided we would drive farther South before finding a place to stay. Drove to Bristol which is right on the state border. Ate dinner there. Is more expensive than the last two nights. We’ll conserve and eat oatmeal and oranges in our room tomorrow, no continental breakfast served here.

20020315 Friday.

We had breakfast in our room. Warm out side. Left about 9:30. Drove a few miles and we were in Tennessee. We stopped at an information center, picked up a coupon book + some information on Knoxville + Chattanooga. Drove on until we came to Rt 75 north. Stopped first at Best Western to get a room for the night. Mary Harriett has the Best Western card but could only get a rate of $69.00. We drove over to Appalachian Museum at Norris. Ate lunch there - cottage cheese + pears + cornbread salad - different. Mary Harriett had corn Bread and pinto beans. We toured the grounds on foot, interesting. Had displays of artifacts collected from people who had lived in area for generations. Had about 30 log structures that had been moved there. Also sheep, turkeys, chickens, peacocks. We then went on to Norris Dam. First built in TVA 1933-36. Stopped at overlooks, took pictures. Drove back to Clinton, town where our motel is located, drove around town, stopped at library but it closed at 5:00 and it was 5:30. Asked some nice young men where to eat they recommended Harrison’s. Took us awhile to find it but it turned out to be very near our hotel. We were carded when we ordered beer!!

20020316 Saturday.

Had rain last night. Heard the thunder. Was still a little misty when we got up about 7:30. Went down to the lobby to have breakfast. We were exchanging pleasantries with the couple at the next table. The woman asked us if we were going to Quilt show in Pigeon Forge. After discussing our options, decided we’d rather do that than see downtown Knoxville. The trip to Pigeon Forge was only about an hour. What a place!! It’s like Lake George village plus the outlets, minus the lake! We stopped at an information center to find out where the Quilt show was. Found it without any trouble but had to park on a hill overlooking Ramada Inn (where it was held) and walked down (and up). Some really beautiful Quilts, lots of people + vendors. Bought some more squares for Winsor’s Quilt. We took the scenic route to Chattanooga, found the Best Western easily. We ate at Riverside Catfish Cafe, which was in the “Dining Across America” book. Wonderful. Drove into Chat. to find Methodist Church, didn’t see it, but on way back spotted one just up the road from here. Read about history of Chat. in phone book. Found a wealth of info there.

20020317 Sunday.

Awake about 7:30. Mary Harriett asked if I’d heard the thunder - didn’t. 

Looked like it had rained in the night. Good thing we weren’t sleeping in the tent. Went to breakfast in lobby + girl at desk called the Methodist Church up the road to find out what time the service is held. 11:00. We reorganized the stuff in the van a little, found the batteries for the boom box. Got to church, we were warmly greeted, pastor was there at the door + gave us each a pencil. After church we drove into Chat., parked at the “Chat Choo Choo” spot, took shuttle bus and driver left us at “Sticky Fingers” restaurant. We ate our dinner there - lots of people. Walked up to the aquarium. Were shocked at the price $12.95. It was really a great place. The idea was to show the habit of the beginnings of the river. There were trees + plants growing out in the open air + birds flying around. There was a pool for river otters, then trout + we worked our way down thru the river story to the Gulf of Mexico. Very well done. Went back to car on shuttle - found our way to Rt. 24 which has a turn off to Rt. 59 - went thru the extreme northwest corner of Georgia. When we crossed into Alabama we stopped at the visitor center, talked with the ladies + got coupon books. We drove almost to Birmingham, to Trussville, to Holiday Inn Express. Had coupon for it + got points on my priority Club. Must check on that at library tomorrow. We got lots of literature on what to see + do in Birmingham. Went to Cracker Barrel for supper. Had mostly veggies. Went into Central Standard Time when we got to Alabama.

20020318 Monday.

We are getting used to the central standard time, up at 7:30. Had our breakfast here at motel then drove into Birmingham. Found a parking garage - with help of a nice young policeman. We walked thru a lovely park to the library. I check the e-mail, messages from John, Win and Cathy. Sent a brief message - chatted with a man who had just come from Mobile. He said it was hot + humid - was looking for people. Asked at reference desk about trolley + McWane center show. He got on line, shows were 11, 1, 4. People were very helpful all around, young man at circulation desk checked to see where trolley picked up and sent us off to the next block. Rode trolley to south side where there are many restaurants, chose a Thai place. Very good. Amazed at such a delicious meal, soup + Thai noodles, very filling, nice service, too, for $6.75. Rode the trolley back north to visit art museum - closed on Monday. Took trolley in another direction, some thru historic district, some thru Civil Rights Area. Both drivers very friendly and helpful - passengers also friendly. Got off near McWane Center - went in - got tickets to Shackleton’s Journey at IMAX. Was a great show 45 min. When we were leaving, a nice young man let us out and gave us directions to get back to the parking garage. When I asked Mary Harriett if she could make it the 6 or so blocks we had to go, he said “wait a minute, I’ll get you a ride.” He called the CAP which rescues drivers with flats, locked out of car, etc. Van came around and drove us to the garage - great. Got directions for heading back out. Stopped at grocery store for sandwich fixings. Gets dark about 6:15 here should be better farther west. 

20020319 Tuesday.

We got on the road about 9:30. Took 459 + missed the turn off to Rt. 65. So, in finding our way back we found Rt. 31 which took us south toward Montgomery. We went almost there, got gas + got on Rt. 65 so we could go to the center of the city. We found the Union station visitors center. We took trolley ride around some of the city for $.25. Our driver recommended the Farmer’s Market Cafe. Was good. Started out for Mobile about 2:30. Got to Mobile about 5:15. Found our Holiday Inn. Was very busy. Did get a room for $49.00 even tho it is a smoker’s room. No chairs, I only had one sheet, our view is the roof of the convention center with air conditioners, but it is only $49. Got the room for 5 nights. Had dinner at McAllister’s Deli. Oddly, both our lunch + supper was the same price!

20020320 Wednesday.

Went down to get breakfast today, after taking a shower + putting on clean clothes, but the “continental Breakfast” was the skimpiest I’ve ever seen. A few small muffins, orange juice + coffee. With the ticket for the complimentary breakfast and $2.99 you can get a Hot Breakfast which was scrambled eggs, bacon, grits, toast or biscuits + home fries. We had that, but decided we’d eat out tomorrow for Breakfast. Drove down to center of Mobile, found library, they don’t have internet access to the public to do e-mail. Went to visitors center and got lots of information. Rode trolley around downtown area, ate lunch at Gus’. I ordered trout Almandine, was not very good, got a complimentary dessert, bread pudding, that was ok. Went next to Oakledge House 1833-36. Did tour + spent a lot of time talking with tour guide, had interesting stories. We found out where flower festival will be tomorrow and stopped at grocery store on way home. Did laundry - brought in ice chest. Eating in room tonight. Mary Harriett called Ann, everything ok there - getting 6” of snow. We had high 70’s today and it looks like we’ll get rain tonight. We got a desk chair + comfy chair + bath mat. 

20020321 Thursday.

We were up and out early, about 8:00. Had breakfast at Cracker Barrel, then went to Festival of Flowers. Took a couple of wrong turns to get there but saw some beautiful neighborhoods. We watched a taping for TV formally opening the Festival. Saw the mayor of Mobile + people who were responsible for the festival. Lovely displays but I think we’ll enjoy seeing the real gardens when we go to Bellingrath tomorrow. We explored Old Shell Road east + west until we found the Brick Pit which is reported to have the best damn B-B-Q in Alabama. I had ribs and Mary Harriett had pulled pork. It comes with beans + coleslaw. It was ok, I’m not an expert in BBQ - all was kind of sweet to me. Then went to see Bragg-Mitchell house. It was built in 1855. Nice tour. Drove over on other side of Mobile Bay, stopped at visitor center - there are lots of things to see over there. We’ll have to hit that on Saturday. Thought we might go to a movie tonight but didn’t find one we wanted to see. Called Elizabeth. Sun goes down about 6:15 and it gets dark. Find that hard to get used to in warm weather.

20020322 Friday.

Up at 8:30! Took a look at what was offered at breakfast buffet + decided to try our luck elsewhere. Took the long way around, but found a postoffice. Mary Harriett mailed “The Outlander” to Carol G. + I got a stamp to send a card to Mats and Gunilla. We found Crumbley’s family restaurant. Had scrambled eggs, toast, fries, orange juice + coffee. Got to Bellingrath Gardens around 11:00. Toured the grounds + house, saw the Boehm birds, got out of the gift shop with only post cards. We needed gas + Mary Harriett asked one of the grounds keepers for the nearest gas station. We drove down the road. I saw a sign that said Exxon-Mobil to the left so we went that way only to find out it was the refinery, not a station. Back tracked, found a little back country store with two pumps in the front, a nice man came out + pumped $10 worth of gas for us. We drove on down to Dauphin Island. Saw a fort, estuarium, + drove to the west end where a lot of houses are built up on “sticks”. Drove back up to Mobile + ate at Nan-Sea’s rest. which was recommended in the book. We decided to stay for a movie, found Springdale Mall, found the cinema - saw “A Beautiful Mind” ($4.50). Even got ice on the way home.

20020323 Saturday.

Up at about 8:30. Decided to try Dick Russell’s for breakfast. I had OJ, coffee + biscuits with sausage gravy. Mary Harriett had two biscuits with 2 sausage patties + honey + coffee. Was ok. Got the tank filled. Drove over the bay to Dauphin + Fairhope. Saw some of the Azalea Belle’s out and about. Looked like the 10K Azalea Race was done and everyone going home. Saw some lovely homes + grounds on the East side of the bay. Cool, but no humidity, was comfortable. Drove down one road that went to a marina - saw lots of sailboats + they were giving lessons today. Saw some interesting sights, one sign said “Ecor Rouge” - sign said it was a cliff of red clay that was the highest on the eastern seacoast between here and Maine. Drove down to Point Clear and back up to Fairhope. Oh, when we got to Dauphin in AM, we stopped at the library to check e-mail. Win said Carolyn’s mother was in health facility near new library + they were trying to get her father in there also. Steven and Cindy Ann both said they liked Dick, were planning to use my car. Got some Ruby Red drinks at Winn Dixie to take with us and some cookies. Ate lunch on pier in Fairhope - nice - had shrimp salad. Looked around town, in + out of shops. Got some coffee + ice cream + home about 6:00.

20020324 Sunday.

Got up early than usual and got out of Mobile by 8:30. We made coffee in the room + ate muffins we bought yesterday. Got to Hattiesburg in time to go to church. Very different from church last week. We were all most completely ignored. We drove around town, stopped at police station to ask about places to eat. We were directed out west of town. We picked out Ryan’s which is a cafeteria style, paid 8.98 for all you can eat. It was good. Drove on to Natchez. We found the visitors center but it was closed but a nice lady helped us with directions + map. We found the Day’s Inn. Ate in room - watched Oscars. Mary Harriett called John. Win called me. Good to know telephone works. Phone went off in car in the afternoon, in the car - must have gotten the button pushed by bumping around. Startled us - really scared Mary Harriett. She thought the beep was something wrong with the car.

20020325 Monday.

Got up and partook of the breakfast at the Motel. We decided not to tour the house at Natchez because they were only open to tour packages. It is Pilgrimage Celebration Time there and you have to sign up for a tour which is 4 hours, takes all morning or afternoon. So, we headed out of town and got on the Natchez Trace. We made several stops along the way, to either read the signs or, at one stop, to see one of the remaining “stands” where people could stay who were walking the trace north. We asked the guide about places to eat and she suggested the Piggly Wiggly in Port Gibson, they have plates of food + sandwiches, etc. I got a (aluminum) plate with fried chicken wings, turnips greens, pinto beans + corn bread, also bought grapes. Mary Harriett got a dish of tuna salad + saltines + pecan pie. She also found “Bruce’s hot sauce” and got oranges + chips. We drove to next picnic area + ate our food. The drive was lovely.We saw lots of dogwood + red bud in flower and leaves coming out on the trees. We saw wake robin which looks a lot different from the ones up north. May apples were in abundance + a tall yellow flower I think was a cress or rocket. We got off at Jacksonville + took Interstate 20 to Vicksburg. We stopped at the the information booth + got a map of an historic driving tour of Vicksburg. Did that. It seems most of the historic houses on the tour were bed + breakfast. We were surprised at how hilly Vicksburg is. Decided we didn’t want to tour any of the houses so headed back to 20 + drove across the river into Louisiana. Staying at Days Inn in Tallulah. Ate at the truck stop - good.

20020326 Tuesday.

We didn’t get started too soon from Tallulah. Continental breakfast very skimpy. I had cheerios + oj + coffee. Mary Harriett had bananas + coffee. We stopped in small town “Dutch Cafe” or “Dutch Kitchen” she got coffee + cinnamon bun. We were soon over the Arkansas border. I heard the tape finish when I was talking. Tried to listen but couldn’t hear it. Tried in car tape deck and it was ok. We put the tap back in recorder, reverse side - seems to be ok. We stopped in Dumas at a cafe + had lunch - chicken-fried steak sandwich. Drove on to Stuttgart to visit Agriculture Museum. We noticed how flat the land is + there is a lot of standing water. We stopped at a visitors center in Arkansas. Got lots of information, decided we’d like to see Hot Springs. Will map out route tomorrow. Got a recommendation from people at museum to eat at “Little Chief”. We checked into Best Western after getting gas - prices high $1.29 + that was the cheapest, Texaco is $1.39. Mary Harriett bought cook book - read some interesting recipes. We went to eat about 6:30. Very good cat fish. The waitress also let us get 4 frogs legs as an appetizer. We decided we didn’t have to get them again.

20020327 Wednesday.

Ate the free breakfast at Motel, was ok. Checked out about 9:00 AM + went to library. Checked e-mail and chatted with people in library. Got message from Win, Steven + Beth, Cathy, John. Sent a message telling them where we are going. We then headed out to the Aquaculture Research Center. Got a tour from a Bill G. Showed us labs + some experimental ponds. Mary Harriett had some interesting questions. We left about 11:30 - drove to Hot Springs via Pine Bluff. We stopped at small town on the way for lunch at Daisy Queen. We shared a taco salad + fried chicken. Was good and only $7 for whole thing. Before we got to Hot Springs, decided to check out Lake Catherine to see if we could stay in a cabin there. It was a longer way than I thought. Anyway, there was a cabin available for $70 a night, decided not to take it. Took some pictures and went back to find Hot Springs. Finally found it. Stopped in visitors center, found out about places to stay + eat. We picked out one of the older Motels - Happy Hollow Motel - it is about as old as I am but clean and has 4 chairs, refrig, TV. We are on second floor. Walked to “historic” downtown area - strolled by shops + picked out a restaurant - went in, sat down + were ignored for about 10 min. We went back to another rest. but they said they were not serving after 6:30. Even tho it was about 6:31! We went back to rest. 1 and did get noticed this time. Got sandwiches. Mary Harriett cheeseburger, me Reuben. Had blackberry cobbler to share, was ok, but cheap. By the way, when we got to Motel, the credit card machine wasn’t working so the lady asked for cash + we settled for $20 apiece. Beautiful almost full moon tonight.

20020328 Thursday.

Room was noisy last night and people were up + slamming doors by 6:00. We got up, dressed and headed down to the Buckstaff bath house. We both had the mineral bath which also included time in the sitz bath, steam bath. Mary Harriett had a pedicure and I had a massage. Was all a great experience. Mary Harriett couldn’t put on her shoes till her nails dried so I went back to motel to get car, drove down to pick her up. We ate at the Park Hotel, next to our motel. I had a big breakfast, eggs, bacon, 2 pancakes + sausage. Mary Harriett had biscuits + gravy. We didn’t get postcards!! We took off heading north toward Harrison, ultimate goal - Mountain Home. Well, Route 7 is a scenic route all right - thru the mountains, lots of twists + turns but no guard rails! The first set of mountains were quite remote, not many houses, then a stretch of flat country, then another set of mountains. The road was better but still a lot of twists + sharp curves. Lots of traffic, even big trucks. Mary Harriett pulled off several times to let the traffic pass as she didn’t want to go faster.  There were spots for splendid views but I only glanced at them. Sometimes the views were on both sides!! I don’t know what I’ll do when we get to the Rockies or the Grand Canyon. We made it and got on a different road headed toward Mountain Home. We went first to Teal Point that rents cabins, but the only one they had left was a 2 bedroom, kitchen, etc., for $98. Decided against that. Went back to Mountain Home, to Comfort Inn + got a room. We chose it because it has a laundry. We went to Fred Famous Catfish dinner place but the special of the night was prime rib and we both got that. Was good. Back to motel, did laundry, I read, Mary Harriett played Yahtzee. Got another bottle of scotch, seems like we use one a week. At dinner we discussed who would get the maple syrup + various wines. We’ll be at Grove tomorrow. On one stretch of the road over the Ozarks, there was a wash out and half the road was missing!

20020329 Friday.

Up early and started for Grove, OK, about 8 AM, after having the free breakfast at the Motel. Had cheerios + toast. Got gas in Mountain Home at Citgo for $1.28 a gal. Drove over same road we came on yesterday but went all the way to Harrison. Went through Eureka Springs - what a place! Narrow, windy streets with lots of victorian homes + shops. Just the kind of place you want to explore. We kept on moving. Went over some mountainous roads with switch backs but not as bad as yesterday. We stopped at a SONICS for lunch. It’s the kind of place you drive up to a pole with a menu on it and order and a waitress brings the food out. I had a cheese sandwich + limeade + Mary Harriett fish sandwich with limeade. Kept on going and got to Grove about 2:30. The house is gorgeous. So much stuff - little touches here + there, got to take several pictures. Don + Chris very welcoming. We did a load of laundry + drove around area. Had snacks + drinks then supper. Played cards, Oh Hell + 31, to bed at 11:00 I’m in room in basement, overlooking lake, Mary Harriett in room above. 

20020330 Saturday.

I woke up about 6:30 but had told Chris I would be up at 8:00 so had time to read before breakfast. Had an egg casserole, bacon, juice + English muffins. Went to Har-Ber Village. It is a collection of 100 some buildings with artifacts from the area to show what the frontier life was like. Several log cabins brought to this place from towns in Arkansas, Oklahoma, etc. Also several buildings with collections in them, Beautiful china, crystal, some ugly, dolls, barred wire, salt + pepper shakers. It looks like anyone who collected anything could donate it to this place. It is free to the public. Chris asked one of the attendants about cleaning the stuff and she said there is a crew of women who come in every day and clean 25 rooms in a day. Went back to cottage, got stuff organized to leave, then took a trip to the grocery store. Mary Harriett picked up a few things + Chris got things she need for Sunday dinner. Left the Lake House about 4:30. I rode with Don + Chris rode with Mary Harriett. We rode along old Route 66. It is marked Historic 66. Stopped at Pauline’s for supper. Wonderful Cafeteria style place. I ate too much. I drove the van + Don rode with me + Chris drove the car with Mary Harriett. Got to Tulsa about 7:30. Beautiful house. So many interesting things to look at. I got some stuff organized, called Sara F., talked to Bill B. He gave me directions to get to his place. Checked my e-mail and paid my AT&T master card bill. Chris cooked, Don watched some TV but also showed us a box Mother had given him that had family stuff in it, tin types, photo album, little things. It was definitely from Cousin Marion R. About 10 we had some libations and played a game of 31. Chris won. It was after 11:30 when we got to bed. Mary Harriett + I are sharing a room with twin beds. Have own bathroom + closet, also own thermostat we can control the temperature we want for our room.

20020331 Sunday.

Easter Sunday. Beautiful weather, blue skies, cool in morning, but warmed up into 70’s. I set the alarm so we could be up in time to go to church at 7:45. Unfortunately, I set the time an hour in the wrong direction when I was taking the difference in time because the clock is still on EST. Well, it went off at 5:00 instead of 6.  Then we went back to sleep and I woke up, looked at the clock, was 7:20. I hopped out of bed + scurried around to get ready, only to realize I was looking at Eastern Time. So we were ready in time, no problem. We got to the church at 8:00 and crowds of people were hurrying into the church. We got a seat in the back row, Lance + Vanessa and Lillian (her mother) were already there. I estimated there were 500 in the sanctuary, but I couldn’t see the balcony. When the service was over, there were people waiting + pushing their way in for the 9:30 contemporary service and there is another at 11:00. The choir was at least 50 strong + there was an orchestra of 30. 4 screens, where music + readings + announcements were displayed. We met the family outside the church. Justin + Karla and their two children, Nicole + Austin. We drove around Tulsa until it was time to meet everyone at the Country Club for brunch at 10:30. It was lovely + I enjoyed talking + watching the family, the children, adult + other, are all beautiful. Lance looks like his mother. Justin is adopted, but has a lot of Donald’s mannerisms + is tall + slender like him. one would not guess he was not a natural child. After the meal, we saw more of Tulsa and at 1:00 went to Gilcrease Museum. A friend of Christine’s came to show us the exhibits, she made it much more interesting. When we walked in the door, we were greeted by an official greeter, Donald said we were from New York, the man said “ not from Hoosick Falls?”. Of course, we said ”Yes”. There is a special exhibit of Gramma Moses in the gallery. Of course we had to tell our Gramma Moses stories. Drove around Oral Roberts U., along Riverside Park + back home. Donald’s sister, Shirley + her husband, Bill, came for supper. Had a wonderful meal. Brisket, roasted asparagus, salad, cheesecake + strawberries for dessert. After supper we played “31”. “31” - need a deck of cards, 5 quarters apiece. Deal 3 cards to each person, one at a time. Turn top card up + remainder of cards face down next to that card. Eldest hand can either pick up that card or draw from pile. Then discard one from hand. Go around like this, either draw or take top card. Object is to get cards all in one suit that adds up to 31. Aces count as 11, face cards ten + others face value. If you get 31, you lay your cards down + everyone else puts a quarter in the pot. It is possible to knock, when you knock, everyone gets one more turn, then all hands go down. If all are higher than the one that knocked, the knocker puts in two quarters. If there are lower than knocker, the lowest one puts in a quarter. When you runs out of quarters, you are allowed to play “on Grace” until you lose again. Play continues until one left with quarters. I called the family about 5:00. Talked to Andy, Cathy, Nancy, Christopher, Helena, Steven, Cindy Ann + back to Cathy. Used up one of the twenty minute cards. Mary Harriett called John + Linda. We couldn’t reach Ann and Bruce. Will try tomorrow. 

20020401 Monday.

Up by 7:30. Had coffee here. Mary Harriett called Chrysler places to see if she could get oil change, etc. Made an appointment for 2:00. We went to Savoy for breakfast. Had biscuits + sausage gravy. Went to see the Fintube plant and visited Lance’s office. I stayed home while Mary Harriett + Don went to garage + Chris got groceries. Chris called several stores to see if one had a silver charm with an oil derrick + found one. We left our film at Moto Photo in morning so Mary Harriett + Don picked those up + she got her charm. We looked at pictures, got snacks, dinner. Don cooked chicken breast on grill + squash, had rice, salad, was all delicious. After supper we played “Oh Hell”, Don won. Then “31” Mary Harriett won. Talked more, to bed at 12:00.

20020402 Tuesday.

When we got up the sky was blue + sun was shining. While we were eating breakfast the clouds rolled in + it got cool. I was planning on 80 degree weather and it was in the 50’s. We didn’t get on the road till 10:00 AM. We were reluctant to leave, the H’s have been such gracious hosts. They fed us well, played cards in the evening and showed us all around Tulsa. We enjoyed their company and their beautiful house. Chris gave me three outfits and two pairs of pants. I was thrilled. She says she doesn’t like wearing long stuff. We got gas at Texaco and got on Interstate Rt 40 out of town. When we were out of the city, we got onto Rt 66 (historic) took us thru small towns. Stopped at a Walmart-McDonald’s for a rest stop. Changed Rts at Oklahoma City, headed south to Fort Worth. Got there about 5:30. Visited, Sara came over with suggestions for activities. Amy made dinner, very good. Watched the DVD Nancy had sent. Was wonderful to see it. To bed, on blow-up mattresses + futons at 10:30.

20020403 Wednesday.

Up at 8:00. Amy had a very large breakfast for us, grapefruit, oranges, plums, bananas, mangoes, + three kinds of toast. Amy + Bill took us to the Botanical Gardens in morning - saw the Japanese garden. Was wonderful, very peaceful. Very windy + cool, must have been in the 50’s. We had lunch at Sara’s, ham + cheese in pita bread + strawberries. We went to the Modern Art Museum but the exhibits were all architecture stuff - models + drawings. I did perk up at last because it was of the art museum Arlene + I stopped to see in Milwaukee last June. We picked up Sara’s kids, Ian + Madeline and then drove around downtown Fort Worth, Cow Town and some of the mansion areas. Went out to dinner at Uncle Julio’s. Had tilapia - white fish - very good. I managed to pay the bill as a thank-you. Amy went home before dessert. We enjoyed talking with Jarrod, Sara’s husband. We drove around downtown area to see it lit up. Very nice. When we got home we were checking on our route for tomorrow and talking with Bill + Nancy called. I was supposed to call her tonight. Everything is ok, to bed early.

20020404 Thursday.

Got on the road about 8:30. Bill left to play golf so we wanted to be up to say good bye to him. We took 30 to 35 W going south. Stopped at a Walmart in Hillsboro to get a couple of things including ice. We stopped in Austin to go to the Wildflower Center that Lady Bird Johnson started. Was interesting. Bought some postcards in the gift shop + got a discount for being a member of Landis Arboretum. They had some beautiful things there. I was very tempted to buy a skirt, blue denim with embroidered flowers on it. Was only $40. May succumb to that urge one of these days. Can’t get over how flat the terrain is. When we go up on an overpass you can see for miles. When we stopped at the first place in Hillsboro, at a Mobil station so we could use the gift that Nancy gave us. We couldn’t get the machine to accept the card, either at the pump or in the store. So, we’ll try it again in another place. We then hit the Walmart, paid with traveler’s check because the bank in the store would charge us $5 to cash it. I signed two but the cashier would only take one, Now what do I do? We looked over coupon books and decided to stay in downtown but we were not successful. Tried the Holiday Inn first, no rooms, went across the street to Courtyard - only had smoking and would be $98. We called Comfort Inn out on Rt 10, they had room so we drove over there. It is 6 miles out of town but the tour bus comes to pick up guests. We finally found it, checked in, we are on the ground floor and the car is right outside our room. That is the way I like it, because I can run out when I forget something or want to bring in all my stuff. Ate dinner at the restaurant right next to motel. Made reservations for a full day tour of San Antonio. We’ll go back on Sat. on our own.

20020405 Friday.

I set the alarm so we would be up in time to have breakfast and be ready for the bus to pick us up for the tour at 8:30. We were up before the alarm and were fed and ready by the time the bus came. It was the “Grand all-day tour”. We went to the Japanese Sunken Garden, IMAX, riverboat ride, got our lunch at the Menger Hotel - wonderful buffet for $8.75, then toured the Alamo on our own. It was very crowded. Got back on bus at 2:00 - went to San José Mission, Mission Conception, Spanish Governor’s Palace + Market Square. We definitely want to go back to stroll around the riverwalk area. The IMAX film was the battle at the Alamo. It was not the “over the head” kind of IMAX. We were not impressed with Market Square. Got a “Lone Star” beer - tasted a lot like a Bud. We were delivered back to Comfort Inn about 6:00. We went to Computer - had trouble manipulating the pointer but did manage to get messages + send a message to the family. We had asked the bus driver, Ron, about a place to eat + he suggested the “Little Red Barn”. So, we drove out, after checking directions at desk. There were many cars in parking, estimate 180, so we expected to wait, but were ushered right to a table by a young lady carrying salads. We ordered steaks + baked potatoes. Was good. Got back to Motel with no trouble. Now to write postcards + plan next part of trip.

20020406 Saturday. 

Very crowded at breakfast this morning - lots of kids. We shared a table with a couple who were on the tour with us yesterday. They are traveling, too, and we may run into them in some other place. It is cool + misty out. We drove into downtown area - parked the van at the Institute of Texan Culture. It is right next to space needle and Alamodrome. It cost us $5 to park for all day and when we went in, they let us in for nothing, counting Mary Harriett as one senior adult + me as a child under 2. It was a very interesting place + there were people there to answer questions, a woman spinning, displays that lit up + had audio presentations. We were there till noon. The ladies at the desk were impressed with our travel plans + said goodbye to us when we left. We got on the yellow line trolley and the drivers and one other passenger gave us suggestions for restaurants. We decided Rosario’s sounded like the place we wanted to go, were told that Martha Stewart ate there two weeks ago! The driver was very good about giving us directions about where to get the blue line to take us out to Rosario’s. Later in the day he passed us on the street, tooted, asked us how our lunch was! We had a good Mexican lunch, enchilada, rice, pork tips, salad, chips + salsa + dos equis Beers. Back on trolley to La Villita where there was a “starving artist festival”. We looked at every booth in the place. Mary Harriett bought a silver bracelet for her charms. I got a photo of bluebonnets, candied pecans. We found ourselves at the riverwalk so we walked down to the river - was a actively raining by then but not hard. We wandered up on the street looking for a place to have coffee when one of the lady boat taxi drivers came along + chatted with us. She walked us over to Starbucks. We sat for a good half hour. Walked back to where we could get the blue line again so we could ride all the way around. A gentleman helped us find the right place to wait. We rode around, got off, got a yellow line back to the parking lot. Now, it was my turn to drive. The rain was heavier + the space needle was enveloped in a cloud. I asked the attendant how to get out - back to Rt 10 and he told me, but we didn’t end up there. I got on a main street going NE and I just kept going but didn’t run into anything I knew. Finally, since it was now dark, I stopped at Little Caesar’s to ask directions. The manager was very helpful and we got back here to our motel about 7:15. Now we have to make plans for tomorrow.

20020407 Sunday. 

Was rainy or misty out in the morning. We ate at Hailey’s. Packed up, drove thru the rain to the University United Methodist Church. Large church. Beautiful choir, even a bell ringer choir. Estimated 700 present, also had simulcast. 6 clergy - took communion. We filled out visitor cards - no one greeted us, wanted to show us around. We got on the road at 12:30 - headed north on Rt 10 + 87. It was raining but by the time we got into the hill country northwest of San Antonio, to the turn off on 87 - the clouds were breaking up. Glad we took that route. Hills are not like the Ozarks but compared to the rest of state, is hilly. We went thru an interesting city Fredericksburg. Was settled by Germans, had lots of stone houses, some are “Sunday houses”, they were small houses in town that the rancher’s family would use when they came into town to go to church or to shop. Lots of german sounding names on shops + restaurants. We drove on to a small town Mason, stopped at a small place called Willow Creek Cafe. We had a burger + fruit salad to share. Had warmed up to 83 degrees as we were driving. While we were driving toward San Angelo we could see storm clouds. We went thru some rain but wind was really whipping up. Country around here - after leaving the hill country, is very flat + lots of plowed ground. Well, we could see clouds of sand, dirt blowing across the road. We slowed down, there was a car in front of us, we couldn’t even see the lights on the back of the car. Only lasted for a few minutes but was really scary. We got into San Angelo around 5:00 but drove around a lot before we found a place to stay. We are in the Inn of Chonecons. Ate BBQ at Pack Saddle. Had brisket, slaw, beans with cobbler for dessert. Owner came to ask how we liked the dinner. It was a small place but food good. Back to motel. Mary Harriett called John + Linda. I took shower, felt much better. Watching Shackleton on the A+E channel.

20020408 Monday. 

Had dreams about Shackleton last night but all-in-all, slept well. We ate + settled our bill, found a car wash - got all that dirt from yesterday off the van. Uneventful drive up north - we are rising in elevation but it is not noticeable, only by reading the tour book. Very flat. We stopped to read a historic marker just south of Sterling City, I picked some of the purple and the yellow flowers growing there. Mary Harriett took picture of the cactus. We noticed a change in vegetation near Lubbock, we stopped for lunch at a nice place called “County Line Cafe”. Had a small stream there with fountains, lots of peacocks, hens, ducks + geese. Had glass of the local wine, sweeter than I usually drink. On to Amarillo - elevation 3, some feet. We checked in to LaQuinta right off I40 and we are west of the city so that will be a help tomorrow. We went to see Ice Age at United Artist theater. It is just near here - got back ok. Was cute movie, watching Shackleton Expedition.

20020409 Tuesday.

Up at 7:00, foggy out. Ate breakfast at motel, was ok, had banana, raisin Bran + juice + coffee. On our way by 8:30. Not much traffic going west on I40. The fog lifted enough a few miles out so we could see miles + miles to the north + south, was flat. Just before we got to the New Mexico the terrain changes to hills, but desert hills. We stopped at the visitors center. We got lots of information about Albuquerque and Santa Fe. We saw mountains in the distance, not much vegetation but then we’d see small trees - looked like polka dots on the hills. We stopped a few miles from Albuquerque at a rest stop and ate lunch out of our supplies. Got to city, beautiful approach - could see mountains then went through a pass into city. Couldn’t find visitors center but drove to a fire station and got directions from firemen to get to Shirley + Norm G.’s house. Found it ok but they weren’t home. Went to check into Best Western - called them about 5:00. They came, picked us up, took us to dinner Greek restaurant, very nice. Then to their house, visited till 10:30. Back to motel. Planned our sightseeing for tomorrow.

20020410 Wednesday.

We did the laundry this AM while we ate breakfast and got organized for our touring. It was sunny and warm, actually wore a short sleeved shirt without a long sleeved shirt over it. We drove to downtown Alba. via Historic Rt. 66. Great to see all the sights. We found the library and with a couple of trips around the block, we found a place to park. By the way, our breakfast was great, there is a rest. connected with the motel + we were given a “ticket” to order a hot breakfast. I had french toast. I got on the internet in a computer room at the library where you could be on for one hour and there was a person there to monitor the users. Had several messages. Sent a message to the family, to church, Cindy Ann + Win.

Sent a message to P.’s, will be there on 15th. Went to art museum, parked car, walked around Old Town, ate lunch. We went to a nature preserve that was on the Rio Grande River. The building was a dam that created a water way for ducks, turtles + geese. There were viewing ports in the cement wall. Very nice. Walked the .8 mile trail down to the river. We went to G.’s for dinner. Very nice. Mary Harriett, Shirley had a chance to catch up on who’s who.

20020411 Thursday. 

Did rest of laundry while we were eating breakfast. Got organized and out by 10:30. Stopped at Walgreen - bought scotch + vermouth, toothpaste + deodorant and some other stuff. Mailed postcards and started down Central Ave (Rt 66). Wanted to take a picture of an unusual Motel and discovered I didn’t have my camera. We looked in the van, my bags + decided to go back to motel. It wasn’t there. Called the bookstore in old town, no, drove down to Old town to check two other places, nothing. I’m hoping it will turn up someplace because I can’t remember where I put it down. We headed up to Santa Fe. Boy, is the landscape bleak. I can’t imagine how anyone settled there in the first place. Mary Harriett says the mountains look just like Spain so the Conquistadors must have felt at home there. Got to city about 2. Checked it out, went back to El Rey motel to check in. It isn’t as far as the cheaper places, but not as expensive as down town. Nice, adobe looking place - spread out. We get breakfast, of course. We drove into the city, found a place to park, walked past many interesting shops to the San Francisco Cafe to get a meal. Was ok. Walked up to the Plaza to check to see if tours left from there and there was a tour about ready to leave (5:00), so we got on. It was a terrific tour, what a city! What views, terrific sculptures for sale in the galleries we went by. After tour, went to book store - got back to car + back to motel. I called Win before we left for city. Mary Harriett called Ann after we got back. She + Bruce have put a bid in on a house. Yesterday, one of the e-mails was from Cathy, she asked if I could take her kids to Maine or should she find another. I told her I’d take them to Maine.

20020412 Friday.

This motel has a very nice room for its breakfast, but not a lot of choices. Had toast with peanut butter. Had to start our travels by shopping at K-mart. I bought a new camera. Mary Harriett got some stuff. We drove to the City Center and started serious shopping. Mary Harriett bought a charm and watch bracelet at the first store - woman was very knowledgable told us about the different turquoises. We wandered thru several shops in that building. We moved on to another. I spotted a pottery dish, with lid, to get for Cindy Ann + Steven. Plus, bought a leather pot holder for them, too. We worked our way up to the “plaza”, went by the indians, or Native Americans, sitting on the porch of the Governor’s Palace. We looked over dozens of things, I finally found a bracelet for Elizabeth. We went round the corner to find a place to eat + there was the Wagon that was mentioned in Eating Across USA. We got the Carnitas special + lemonade. Then on to the library. We were able to get on a computer for 1/2 hour to get + send e-mails. It has been very interesting to go into libraries in different cities. Went to Wells Fargo to cash travelers check. Back to Native American sellers where Mary Harriett bought a bracelet. We went to the Loretta Chapel that has a very famous staircase. Will have to find a book about it so I can remember what is so miraculous about it. Back to car so we could go to Museum of Indian Cultures. Saw some rugs - reminded me I have Win’s grandfather’s Navaho rugs, must get them out to see what condition they are in. One I looked at was $1,000. We drove back, found Canyon Road, restaurant “El Farol” where we ate dinner. Very expensive. I had three tapas + Mary Harriett had lamb chops + each had wine. Drove home, got new ice + fruit, back to motel to see if we get rain tonight.

20020413 Saturday.

Started out looking for a L’Eggs shop in a big mall, but couldn’t find it. Headed north to Taos. Beautiful scenery - came around a curve and see a breathtaking view. Taos is in a flat place surrounded by mountains. Only stopped for lunch because the Pueblo was closed for religious reasons. Had a burger at Michael’s Cafe + bakery. Pressed on, drove into Colorado. When we got 20 or so miles to Rt. 160 - went up into mountains saw some snow in forest. Got a room in Best Western in Walsenberg CO. Ate in room, chips, fruit + cookie. Only saw three horses when we were coming by “open range”. Did see signs for deer and elk.

20020414 Sunday.

Had breakfast in our room from supplies in our box. Left for Pueblo about 9:30. Stopped at visitors center and got a coupon book, looked up churches, but when we got to Pueblo - we had trouble finding a Methodist Church. Asked a couple of people but last woman was the only one who really knew where to send us. We got to the parking lot about 11:15 and found the service was at 10:00. Madeline R. invited us to have a lunch with them when we asked her if there was another church with a service at 11:00. Everyone was very nice + welcoming. The meal was an annual event “Hardtimes” in connection with the taxes due now. Had beans cooked with ham, corn bread + pudding. The minster, Kim, gave us a tour of the church + gave us a bulletin. We head north again on I25 and were in Colorado Springs about 1:30. I checked us into Days Inn with coupon and they gave us the cheaper rate for the other Days Inn. We changed clothes + headed out to the “Garden of the Gods” which is only a few miles from here. It is a beautiful place. Lots of scenic roads, paths for walking or jogging, bike trails, horse trails and, what fascinated us was the rock climbing! We spent at least an hour watching those people. Then we drove up to see the Air Force Academy. It was past 5:00 and they were not permitting visitors in. So, we did some driving around C. S. Found a place to eat in downtown Giuseppe’s Old Depot Italian stuff. I had to drive back - made it but had to do some turn arounds. A good day, but tiring.

20020415 Monday.

After breakfast + checking out of motel we went to Garden of the Gods gift shop. I bought post cards + magnets, also a lovely cross with turquoise in it for Nancy. We drove up to the Air Force Academy so we could see the chapel. We had to go thru a check point, drove + drove + got in wrong places. Finally found the chapel, got out to take pictures but found visitors were not allowed in. We were disappointed. Drove on toward Denver but took Rt 85 which took us into Littleton where there is a Rite Aid. Mary Harriett had to get a prescription filled. Took two Rite Aids to get both things filled. Drove to Evergreen. Mary Harriett got out at store to ask directions. Found Ruthie’s house.

20020416 Tuesday.

Had a great home-made breakfast. Saw elk in the yard. Then Ruthie took us on a tour of Denver. We walked some, took a free mall bus - walked past the Capitol building to Molly Brown’s house. Had an interesting tour - guide told us her name was Margaret - people called her Maggie but never Molly. Had lunch at nearby Walnut Cafe, fruit salad + tuna salad. Walked down to Colorado History Museum to see the exhibit there. Ruthie paid for all. Drove home via Red Rock park + through Bear Creek to Evergreen. Stopped in grocery store. Had delicious salmon for supper. Did more talking + tasted some Oban single malt Scotch, then to bed. Ruthie’s dog’s name is Nugget.

20020417 Wednesday.

We had corn waffles this morning and Ruthie served them with the maple syrup I gave her. We went with her while she delivered meals on wheels. What a route! Up and down hills but the worst part is going thru town because of the construction. We had lunch, Ruthie drove us to the lake and we walked around that which is about a mile, took dog, too. Went out to dinner at a Chinese rest. Stopped at their church and she showed us around. Had a bit of scotch when we got back. Did laundry in morning. It’s great to have clean clothes.

20020418 Thursday.

Got packed, had breakfast, said good-bye to Ruthie + Al and left a little after 8. Very scenic route to join Rt. 185. Some really great views. Stopped at Monte Vista for lunch at JB’s. Local place - had sausage, cheese, lettuce sandwich, fries + drink. Potatoes grown around this area. We came thru an area called South Park. A lot of ranches around here - then in the flatter area, fields are cultivated - and potatoes seem to be the produce. Turned on to Rt. 160 going west - one of the parts of the road took us up to Wolf Creek pass which is over 10,000 ft. high. There was repairs being made on the road and we had to wait 1/2 hour in line to get over pass. We are now on the other side of Continental divide. We continued on to Durango, picked out Caboose Motel to stay in. Called Steven. Ate dinner at Christina’s across the street. I took walk in evening. Heard they had snow in Evergreen today.

20020419 Friday.

Had a busy day. Ate in room from our groceries. Drove to Durango Public Library. Had messages from Ann, John, Regina, Bob L. Ann’s message had directions for getting to Ann G.’s place in Park City. I sent messages to P.’s, H.’s, Bob L., family + Arlene. Got on our way to Aztec. Ate lunch, then went to see Pueblo ruins. Very interesting. Got some postcards. On to Farmington. Found Navajo Mission School. Connie showed us around. Met teachers + house parents. Nice. Went to visitors center. Decided to go for a walk at Riverside, “movie” - “Joshua” then to Chelsea street pub for something to eat. Staying at Knight’s Inn near airport. While we were walking at Riverpark, next to parking lot was a colony of prairie dogs. What fun to watch them. There were dozens. We threw a cookie and sat in car to watch them.

20020420 Saturday.

We slept late - till 9:00. We packed up and went to K-mart. Got more film + Mary Harriett bought cheap watch. Went to Pancake Alley for breakfast - what an experience! I think we were the only palefaces in the very busy restaurant. I had pancakes, juice + coffee. Mary Harriett had carne adovada, 2 eggs + home fries + coffee. Many people were wearing turquoise jewelry. While we were there some children, and old lady + young man came around the tables selling jewelry. We struck up conversation with the people at the next table, they talked to us about where to go + what to see, was helpful. We headed out of town about 12:30. We soon ran into very windy + lots of blowing sand. We drove by Ship Rock - impressive. Crossed the border - turned north + visited 4 Corners. Navahos have booths there. Flags flying over spot where 4 states come together. Very windy + cold. Mary Harriett bought herself a ring + bracelet + earrings, all beautiful. I bought, with Mary Harriett’s help, a necklace + pendant. Drove on back to Rt 160, headed for Tuba City. Mary Harriett had to fight the wind. Stopped at Burger King to get a bite to eat. Checked into Quality Inn.

20020421 Sunday.

Packed up and checked out - an expensive motel! Cost $93. No competition in Tuba City. Went to Tuba City truck stop for breakfast. Had an omelette with toast + home fries + coffee. Couldn’t eat it all. Mary Harriett had pancakes + sausage + coffee. Again we were in the minority. Got gas + ice across the street and headed for Flagstaff. I had looked up the address of the Methodist Churches, so was prepared + found one. The journey coming down from T. C. to F. S. was amazing. The landscape goes from utterly barren to heavily wooded. We have to adjust our thinking about the time because Arizona does not go on daylight savings time but the Navahos do. My watch is on Mountain D.S.T. + Mary Harriett’s is on Arizona time. The church we went to is a new one in a residential area. We were about 20 minutes late for the service but did hear the sermon + did some singing. Went to visitors center to get information on tours of the Grand Canyon. Decided on one + went to find motel. Checked into Quality Inn on Lucky Lane. For three nights here we are paying $113! Tomorrow I will call + join the Club for free nights. We sat outside our room on a little patch of grass + enjoyed just sitting for awhile. Finally, I called to book us on the tour and Mary Harriett called John. We drove to a car wash - the car was really dirty after the wind and dust we went through. Then drove south to see what “Motel in the pines” looked like. It is about 20 miles south of Flagstaff. Looked around that area - nice resort style homes. We decided we’re glad we didn’t check in there, wasn’t all that great. Back to Flagstaff and look around. Found library and it was open. Went in to check e-mail. Win’s message was he was going to Washington to visit Fred while C went to Williamsburg with friends. Also a message from Don H., dog’s name is Kate. Bob L. also sent message + Win replied to Steven’s message about our running out of scotch. “Do what they usually do, rob a liquor store!” Went dinner at “Black Bart’s”. Had grilled chicken. Mary Harriett had prime ribs. Was good food + the waiter + waitress sang. Walked around block after we got back to motel.

20020422 Monday.

Had a good breakfast, much more than we usually get in free breakfast. Relaxed + read paper before going down to Sedona. We drove down 89A. Ride was uneventful until we got close to Sedona. We went from 6500 feet to 4000 feet. Ride beautiful but very curvy. Mary Harriett said it was a white knuckle ride. We found a place to park and strolled around. Took films to one hour express to get our films developed. Took a tour on trolley, spent some money + time in book store. It is beautiful. Red rocks in weird formations. Picked up our films about 5:00. Sat and looked at them in parking lot. Drove back to Flagstaff, ate dinner at Busters. Did laundry.

20020423 Tuesday.

Had another good breakfast, then we waited for the van to pick us up. It was on time. We got to the first drop off about 12:00. Look at the canyon - very impressive. Was cloudy so colors were dull. While we were eating lunch at El Tovar Lodge, the sun came out. We went to the next spot and took more pictures. Went to the next view point then left park. Stopped at Cameron, another shop. Back to motel by 5:15. Went to library to get photo copies of bills from Comfort Inn + Quality Inn for the membership in preferred service, then drove to Flagstaff mall to get battery for Yahtzee game at Radio Shack. Had dinner at Wendy’s. Spent some time planning our trip thru Utah. 

Had to add a note: The room was warm and after we got into bed, Mary Harriett got up, opened the door and fanned it back and forth. She looked out the door and a man was going by with a bag of food. Mary Harriett said 

“Just cooling the room off.” It struck me very funny.

2020424 Wednesday.

Had a good night’s sleep. We ate breakfast, checked out and went to get gas. We tried using the gift card, but it didn’t work. I’ve got to call the 800 # and find out what the problem is. Got ice for cooler. Headed north - stopped at Glen Canyon Dam. Saw displays + video about the dam. A good stop. Drove on to Kanab UT. Stopped for something to eat at Houston’s End of the trail cafe. Got chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes + salad. Split a raspberry pie. Set out again, drove toward Zion Canyon but turned back + stayed at Best Western Resort at Mount Carmel Junction. Nice place. Has a 9 hole golf course. Walked around, watched TV, had a bite to eat at restaurant.

20020425 Thursday.

Slept late again, after 8:00. Ate breakfast in the restaurant here, watched hummingbirds at feeders out side windows. Reserved our room for a second night. We like this place. Has green grass + is quiet and room very nice, larger than most we’ve stayed in and we can sit out on the patio. We drove north to Bryce Canyon - about 60 miles from here. Ran into road construction and had to wait a few minutes for our turn to go thru the one lane area. Saw a house down below us that was round, looked like made of cement - had row of triangle shaped windows + curved entryway. I said it looked like the Telletubbies place. Took a picture on the way back. Before Bryce Canyon, we went through Red Canyon. Beautiful - red rocks in crazy shapes. As we neared Bryce we could see smoke. It turned out there was a prescribed burn. The rangers stopped us for awhile, few minutes, told us to turn on our lights - we drove slowly. Used our golden age passes to get in. Went to first lookout - spectacular! Took pictures + drove entire route, 18 miles to Rainbow Point which is 9117 ft above sea level. Look around there + took some pictures. Went back to first stop and had picnic lunch. Had a few drops of rain. We drove out, went a little farther north to Panquitch - drove around, stopped at post office to get mailers. Back to Mt Carmel Junction. Mary Harriett got batteries and put them in the CD player. We’ll keep that on the cooler + play CDs when we want to. I went into the whirlpool - was very nice. Called Elizabeth - things are fine - she sent me a long e-mail, so I’ll wait to find out what is in that. Mary Harriett tried to call Ann, she wasn’t home. Had dinner at the restaurant. Mary Harriett sat on her glasses, the ones she wears to drive + broke them. The lady at the desk offered to glue them, so we went back with them and she did it. We hope they’ll hold until we get to Salt Lake City. Chatted with a couple from Victoria who are on their way home, Debbie and Olie H. I wrote this down in case we run into them again, I can look back at this writing.

20020426 Friday.

Had breakfast at same restaurant. Got packed up, got gas + ice and started for Zion National Park. We used our Golden Age pass to get in. The road thru the park is red. We went thru the tunnel ok because we were following a camper. They have to stop traffic when a large vehicle is going thru, can only have one way traffic because the camper has to go down the middle of the road, because it is so narrow + low on the sides. Then we came to the switchbacks. Wow! We made it ok but Mary Harriett said it was really tough to drive it. We got to the visitors center, looked around, got on shuttle bus to tour other road in the park. It was spectacular looking up at those Navaho sandstone mountains. The shapes, the colors!! Rode to the end, Mary Harriett got off + took some pictures. It rained a little and we decided not to try hiking the trails although it looked like some of them were doable. We saw some people climbing the rocks, one pair was doing a 3 day climb - they were halfway. We went back to gift shop and made some purchases. I bought the bird call recorder for Mary Harriett, some cards + tapes for the little boys. We left the park and looked for a place to eat in Springdale. Tried the Switchback. Ordered our food, paid for it and was told they’d bring it. Well, after 20 minutes, I went to the counter to inquire about our food!! They’d lost the ticket. About 10 minutes later, we got our food. Later the hostess came to return our money for the sandwiches. I felt it was a just thing to do. We started out again, stopped in a small town to mail Elizabeth’s birthday present. Town was filled with roses, iris, peonies, phlox. On our way to Big I15, a roadrunner ran right across the road in front of us, what a thrill. We hit the big road + drove thru rain + wind till we got to Nephi, which is about 100 miles south of Salt Lake City. Hope to get there for Mary Harriett to get an order in for glasses. Had a delicious dinner at Lisa’s Cafe. Staying at Best Western in Nephi, UT.

20020427 Saturday.

Rainy, drove to Salt Lake City, found Cottonwood Mall so Mary Harriett could get new glasses. Drove up to main part of Salt Lake City, Temple Square. I ran in to get info at Visitor Center. Found our way back to Rt. 80 - headed for Park City. As we went higher the rain got thicker until it became snow. We had a hard time of it - windshield fogged up + Mary Harriett could barely see - kept track by looking at white lines in road. We finally got to Exit 145 - could hardly see because snow was covering it. We saw a food market, turned in to buy groceries, in case we were going to be snowed in. By the time we came out, the sun was shining - found our way to pick up key and found Ann G.’s condo. It is smaller than some of our motel rooms. Had small kitchen, bathroom, double bed, couch. We brought stuff in, got organized. Call theater to see if we could get two tickets - the ones for tonight were $20. We went over to get tickets for tomorrow - got to office, a woman who was buying season tickets and wasn’t going to use her tickets so gave them to us. We strolled down Main Street + back up, stopped in a book store + photography gallery. Got gift for Andy. Had dinner here - watched TV. Went to bed, Mary Harriett on couch, me in bed. Defrosted refrigerator.

20020428 Sunday.

Didn’t get up in time to go to Cathedral. Found a Methodist church in City. Got paper. Back in time to have lunch + go to show. Did laundry, ate dinner at Brewpub across street. Park City’s elevation is 6,911, Salt Lake City is 4,390.

20020429 Monday.

Mary Harriett took film to be developed, but we’ll have to pick it up tomorrow because we got back after 6:00. She tried to call John before we left, but line was busy. Went to AAA for advice on tour of city, all we got was a map. Parked van in ZMIC building garage + toured on our own. Went to temple square. Two of the “sisters” gave us a tour. Lady in group suggested a restaurant at top of Joseph Smith Memorial bldg. Lobby was beautiful - “garden room” nice place to have lunch. Talked to two ladies at the next table. Got info from waitress about sites for Olympic events. Toured Beehive house, was Brigham Young’s home, then went to the Aviary in Liberty Park. Spent 1, 1/2 hours. Drove thru development that early mormons lived some nice mansions, but we saw more in Temple street. Back to Park City - stopped at library to check e-mail. Messages from John, Win, Steve, Elizabeth, Cathy, Regina, Nancy C. + Arlene. Sent a note to family. Couldn't get on-line with my AT&T account so couldn’t pay my bill. Home to eat leftover soup + popcorn. Mary Harriett did get ahold of John.

20020430 Tuesday.

Had hair cut, Mary Harriett picked up films and we went to get car serviced. Took the back way, thru emigrant Canyon to S.L.C. Went to “This is the Place” park + back to Ruth’s Diner for lunch. Sat out on patio under a heat lamp. I had breakfast parfait, Mary Harriett had eggplant parm sandwich. Was lovely. Drove to U of U Red Butte gardens + arboretum. Just beautiful. Loved the Children’s garden. Then drove over to see the Great Salt Lake. It seemed to be down - lots of shoreline showing. There is a big building there - used to be a Casino, but it got outlawed. We drove back to Park City, stopped at the library so I could pay my Master Card bill. I also sent a message to family, asking if they wanted any souvenirs of Olympics. Got message from John, Win. Ate leftovers for supper - TV cable was not working so we watched “Thelma + Louise”.

20020501 Wednesday.

Went across Main Street to El Ray for breakfast. I ordered sourdough pancakes and the waitress said they were really sour and I changed my order to the buckaroo, which is made with cornmeal + buckwheat. They were good but I’m still curious about how the others tasted. We drove into Salt Lake City to the AAA office, got books on Nevada, Wyoming and Dakotas. Left our car there in their parking lot and walked over to the next block to get on the trolley. We didn’t know where the trolley stopped, so we stood in between the two tracks The first trolley came by + tooted at us, but didn’t stop, so we walked down to the next block. A trolley going the other way tooted at us + the driver yelled out the window  - “Get off the tracks, ladies.” A minute later a truck UTA came along the tracks and told us it was dangerous where we were standing and the trolleys only stopped at specific stations, the next one being the next block up. We walked up just about the time the trolley came and we got on clutching our money, but no way to buy a ticket or pay our fare. The people on the trolley told us they seldom check if people paid the fare. We got off near the temple, found the Family Research Library and spent the next three hours finding out how to look up various things, using the computer, census record on micro film + books. Finally left to get some lunch, ran into one of the ladies we had talked to during lunch on Monday. She greeted us like long friends. She wished us well. We went into JB’s for lunch, then got on University trolley, having bought a ticket, got back to the car. Went into the “Wild oats food store” + got our favorite potato chips, four different bags. I got a birthday card for Caroline. We drove back to Park City + toured around there. I used ATM, got some cash - too easy!! Mary Harriett made western egg sandwiches for supper, was great!

20020502 Thursday.

Slept late, didn’t go out until nearly 12:00. Checked e-mail. Ate in. Took film to be developed. Lady told us about a route we should take to see Stars home and views. We didn’t go all the way but did drive by Johnny Carson’s house. Ate lunch at Eating Establishment, had ribs. Walked down Main St. Mary Harriett bought two silver charms - beehive and Olympic charm. Walked down the rest of Main St. + got ride back on bus. Took ride to Herber City. Called Cathy. Ate up stuff in refrig. Ate candy I bought across street for dessert.

20020503 Friday.

Up early, got packed, eat, cleaned up and were out of TMI by 9:00. Got ice, water + paper at Albertson’s. Had a few flakes of snow + occasional rain drops, but nothing serious. Got to Nevada in time for lunch. Right over the border - went to visitors center - she recommended the buffet at the Peppermill Casino across the street. We drove over there. They had great buffet which, because were are senior citizens, we paid $5.00. On the road again - wow. The Great Salt Lake desert was bleak + flat. In Nevada - we did have some hills, snow-capped mountains, in fact. There was a lot of greenery for awhile. We stopped in Elko for gas + went to visitors center. We pushed on to Winnemucca - got tiresome looking at tall the bleak desert, no cows, no horses, no people, only saw one or two birds. Got to Win. Went to visitors center - got list of places to stay + eat. Picked out Scott’s Shady Motel. Older place but nice. The girl at the visitors center recommended Martin’s Hotel for Basque meal. We shared a table with a gentleman + lady. We walked 10 blocks to the place. Great meal. Brought soup, bread, wine + water, then salad, beans, then bowls of rice + beefsteak, then our order - lamb with french fries. Ate a lot, but it was good. Walked back, nice evening but cool. We also went to the liquor store and got bottle of Ruffed Grouse + vermouth.

20020504 Saturday.

Checked out of motel and ate breakfast at the Griddle House in Winnemucca. I had french toast with coconut, very good + Mary Harriett had eggs florentine. We were about ready to leave town when we stopped to watch a helicopter rescue demonstration put on for the benefit of EMT convention in town. Quite something to watch that pallet with a person strapped to it + the medic being pulled up to the helicopter. We drove north thru high desert - even saw some sand dunes. Mary Harriett stopped to get out and feel the sand. It was just like you’d find at Moody Beach, ME. It was no problem stopping - there were very few cars. We turned off on Rt 140. Went thru more high desert. We did see a prong horn deer just laying near the road. Had to back up to take his picture. We crossed into Oregon, but the scenery didn’t change. Finally we came to a downgrade - the kind Mary Harriett doesn’t like to drive down. The road was carved out of the side of a mountain, a 3 mile 8% grade. But, we made it. Long stretches of road with very little vegetation and can see for miles in all directions. We finally got to a more fertile part of the country. Stopped in Lakeview, at Jerry’s for lunch. We did stop 30 miles before that to get gas. Pushed on to Klamath Falls to find a place for the night. Super 8 - ate at Mollie’s next door, did laundry. Apparently the truckers stay here and even with two sets of washer, dryer, Mary Harriett had to wait to get our stuff washed + dried. We played the Mystery Rhummy Game, too.

20020505 Sunday.

Had two breakfasts, one at Super 8 and one after we went to church in Klamath United Methodist Church. Ate at Klamath Grill - had potato pancakes + bacon. Drove to Medford over 140. Went to Harry + David’s to get fruit sent to John + Linda. Also checked in at AT&T store. Had voicemail set up and girl explained about ROAM. Mary Harriett called John from parking lot. Got on I5 drove north to Cottage Grove. Comfort Inn - ate at Cottage Rest. Had steak teriyaki bites. Watched TV. Saw pelicans on the lake in PM. 

20020506 Monday.

Got a late start, about 10:00. Was cloudy + rainy. Just barely got our free breakfast. Drove north on I5 to Albany, turned on Rt 20 - lost it but got directions from construction flag man. We were lucky, it didn’t rain on our trip to see the Pacific Ocean. We ate lunch at Sea Hag in Depoe Bay - recommended by the biker we ate dinner with on Sat. Got postcards + Mary Harriett got two snowman ornaments for grand nephews. Went north on Rt 101 to Rt. 18 - returned inland. Got to Newberg to find Best Western Motel. Had popcorn + fruit for dinner. Went to see “Spiderman” in evening. Picked out what we are going to see in Portland. While we were in Lincoln City I went into the library to check e-mail. Message from Win, Grace. Asked Judy P. what week I’m supposed to be in camp.

20020507 Tuesday.

Off earlier today. Had free breakfast at Motel, Cheerios + donut. Drove to “End of Trail” Museum in Oregon City + found out we couldn’t get in - too many school kids. We drove to Rhododendron garden in Portland. Beautiful!! What colors. It was on a small lake, had lots of ducks, geese and small song birds. Had lunch at a Mexican rest. Got back to the museum by 2:00 had lecture, show. Back on road by 3:30. Had trouble finding our way in downtown Portland, went over river when we didn’t want to, finally decided we’d park the car + ride the trolley (light rail). We got on ok, but after a couple of stops, it went underground, so much for seeing Portland! It really goes out into the ‘burbs a long way so after it came out of the tunnel for a couple of more stops, we got out, crossed the tracks and waited for the return train. The whole thing took about an hour. We headed out of town about 5:30. Again, we made a wrong turn but finally got on 405 + went over the river - into Washington. Drove to Woodland - picked out Best Western. Ate at the Oak Tree Inn. I did some figuring of my spending + is still about $400 a month.

20020508 Wednesday.

Up early enough to eat breakfast at Motel. Went to look at Lilac Garden. Got there about 9:00 - place didn’t open till 10:00. We hung around until some nice lady came along + told us to go ahead in. So, we walked around for a half hour and admired the gardens. We headed north - stopped at Lakeview to get info. Decided to eat in Tacoma, on the waterfront “Harbor Lights”. Was nice, had shrimp, Mary Harriett had salmon. Got to Arlene’s about 2:30. Unpacked, discussed how we will spend our time here. Ate dinner at 5:00. Called Nancy at 5:30. Got e-mail - Nancy’s job is in jeopardy but the kids are doing well in daycare. Win got drain in laundry fixed. Went to play, “Enrico IV” at University theater. Picked up Arlene’s friend, Chris.

20020509 Thursday.

Up about 8:00. Arlene made coffee - had bagels + toast for breakfast. Spent time arranging for trip to Victoria + Olympic Peninsula. Left for downtown after lunch. Took bus. Went to Pioneer Square and Safeco Field to see Mariner’s game. We got BBQ at Park for dinner. They closed roof because of the cold wind. Wore winter coat and had blanket with me. Bought book in bookstore. Long game - 11 innings. Mariners won over Toronto Blue Jays. Stopped at grocery store on way home for coffee, napkins, + salad.

20020510 Friday.

Didn’t get up until about 10:00. Ate Bkf. - went to Seattle, Arlene drove. Went to get her tickets for film festival, went to Pike’s Market, ate at french place. Sent pkg to Win from Seattle store, Got half-price tickets for lake cruise tomorrow. Mary Harriett got hair cut. Arlene went to opera with friends. Mary Harriett + I ate chili, watched Boston Red Sox + Mariners game.

20020511 Saturday.

Arlene off to Portland this morning at 10:30. Mary Harriett + I lounged around the house - ate lunch + left about 12:30 to go to the cruise. We got stuck in traffic, missed the turn, got lost + by the time we got back to the dock - the boat was gone. So, we went in a couple of stores (galleries), then decided to see if we could go back to the 1/2 price ticket place + get tickets for Sunday. We found the place + after some waiting, found out there was another cruise at 3:30. We drove back to the dock area, parked the car, it was just about 3:00. We took the cruise, got back to the car about 5:00. Drove to the area where cinemas are, ate dinner at Mama Lucia, very good. Saw Monsoon Wedding. Mary Harriett not feeling well, pain in side - got back here after stopping for bread, english muffins + grapes. We got home in time to find out Red Sox lost again. Mary Harriett feeling some better after taking Alka-Seltzer. 

20020512 Sunday.

Slept late, 8:30, showered, ate breakfast, read paper, went to church at Lake Washington United Methodist Church. Had a wonderful bell choir, with flute + percussion. Did a beautiful number to begin the service. Children’s choir sang - very good, too. Spoke to music director to tell him how how much we enjoyed the music. Got some salad + cold cuts, went home to eat. Set up chairs in back yard - took our plates out there. I shut the door + never checked to see if it was unlocked. Well, about 2:00 we tried to get back in. Arlene arrived home about 2:35, let us back in. She drove us around some interesting neighborhoods in Seattle. Got some stuff for dinner - home about 7:00. Mary Harriett called John. I checked e-mail - card from C & S. Watched end of ball game, Red Sox won, 10-5. Arlene did laundry.

20020513 Monday.

Mary Harriett + I sat around house, reading + doing crossword puzzles. Arlene went to class, back about 4:30. She had oil changed. We were all packed and ready to go. We dumped garbage at Safeway dumpster. Arlene was worried because a police car was there in the parking lot. I hope he didn’t notice. We were lucky to get right in line at Edmonds to get the 5:30 ferry to Kingston. It was raining, but not too bad. We went up in the lounge for the 40 min trip. When we went back to get in the car, Arlene discovered she had locked the keys in the car. The man on the crew came over with a hook to unlock it. Everyone exited and the other end was boarding before the car was unlocked. We were afraid we’d have to go back to Edmonds. We drove thru the rain and by the time we got to Port Angeles, the sun was up. We drove around town looking for a place to eat, after we checked into Super 8. Found a Chinese rest. Was better than Evergreen rest, last time we had Chinese. Back to Motel, to bed.

20020514 Tuesday.

Up early, got our free breakfast, then off to get ferry to Victoria. Left at 10:00. We arrived near 11:30. Crossing was a little rough at first. We checked into Best Western, near ferry landing. Walked over to Bus station - got bus to Burchart Gardens. Ate lunch in Blue Poppy Cafe - beautiful - had salmon, noodle salad, large cookie for dessert. Walked around gardens - sunny + pleasant. Amazing - such variety of tulips, colors spectacular. Got bus back to city at 3:30. Walked thru some shops, we were too tired to do much. Ate dinner in English Pub. Had steak + kidney pie. Mary Harriett had liver + onions, Arlene chicken pot pie. Took cab back to motel. Took a short walk in evening when lights were on. Got book for Helena.

20020515 Wednesday.

Had our breakfast at Hotel before we walked over to get ferry. No problems getting thru customs at either end. I was glad I had my passport - customs officials really wanted that, not just USA driver’s license. Got back to Port Angeles, went to have lunch at Chestnut Cafe. Very nice place. I had some kind of pizza, like 3 cheese french bread. Drove down Rt 101 to Rain Forest on Olympic Peninsula - Mary Harriett + I walked around for 1/2 hour. Lots of moss, big sword ferns, douglas fir, cedar, spruce. Very big trees but didn’t see giant ferns. Went down to Kalaloch Lodge. Checked in and had dinner. Ordered Salmon, was delicious, but an expensive place. There was a small grocery next door. Mary Harriett got muffins for us for breakfast, so we wouldn’t have to pay $10 in the morning to eat. I walked down by the ocean after dinner, waited till sunset to take some pictures, was quite cool. I had on a sweat shirt + was barely warm. There was no TV in room. We showed Arlene the pictures of our trip as far as we had them. 

20020516 Thursday.

We ate our breakfast in room, made coffee + ate stuff Mary Harriett had bought. Drove down coast - Rt 101-12-5 to Olympia - drove by the Capitol Building. Then drove up to Gig Harbor, over bridge that replaced Galloping Gertie. Had lunch at a nice place - had Alaskan Halibut sandwich - was delicious. Walked into some of the shops there - it is a cute little fishing village that tourists love. Got a necklace + earrings for Cathy + a doll for Helena. On the road again, to Tacoma to visit history museum. That was a great place - lots of figures, which talked when people came near, telling history of Washington. At 6:00, I called Win. We then headed north to Issaquah. Had supper in a cafe, then went to Krispy Kreme doughnut store where they make glazed doughnuts  - they give each customer a free doughnut. Arlene got a half dozen for our breakfast tomorrow. Glad to get back to Arlene’s we were tired. Checked e-mail before going to bed. Also watched TV show about John Nash (a beautiful mind). I did doze thru some of it. 

20020517 Friday.

Slept till after 8:00. Had some coffee - looked at Arlene’s pictures of her trip to Berlin + Prague + Budapest. Had our doughnuts then got our stuff packed. Left about 11:00. Stopped at Safe Way to get groceries for our place in Glacier. As it turned out, we should have gotten a few more things, but didn’t know what to expect of the place. We drove north on Rt 5. When I read the stuff in the book on Mount Vernon, that they grow bulbs + have a tulip festival, we decided to stop there. Had lunch at Calico Cafe then drove out to the gardens. Most of the tulips are gone, but around the garden shop there were enough to make us happy. We could see Mt. Baker as we drove north, lot of snow. We wanted to get tourist coupon book, so we drove a little farther north than Bellingham but the tourist info office was closed! So, we headed out to Glacier. Our place, Snowater, is 36 miles from Bellingham. Not much around here except mountains. A really beautiful spot, trails thru the woods, tennis courts, two recreation halls with swimming pools. The North fork of the Noonsack Rivers flows by, you can hear it when you open the balcony door. Our place has a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living room, balcony, nicely furnished. There is a TV, but no reception. Can only use it for tapes. Nice stereo set. Could hear the end of the Red Sox - Mariner’s game, we lost 3-6. Walked around some after game then fixed dinner. Had my favorite, potatoes, hamburger, mushrooms + asparagus. Read some in the evening. Had to recharge phone battery, but no reception for that either. Mary Harriett will have to go to public phone near office.

20020518 Saturday.

We didn’t do much. Cleaned out car and rearranged things. Went to Maple Falls, got two videos “My Life as a House” and “What Women Want”. Also got 2 lbs. cheese! some bread, eggs, macaroni, etc. I went out for walk in afternoon, along river. Watched “My Life…” - good movie. Went to library got e-mail - message from John - there was 2” of snow in Albany + Portsmouth. Win thanked me for package I sent him. Sent message to Elizabeth asking her if she got her birthday gift.

20020519 Sunday.

Had a restless night so slept late - up at 9:10. We ate breakfast  - went to Bellingham to church. We got there about 11:10, found out service started at 10:30. We still got a lot of service - church out about 11:50. We drove down to Fairhaven, an “old town” in Bellingham. Had lunch at a nice cafe. Soup was lukewarm + we sent it back. The price of the soup was removed from the bill, nice of them to compensate, even tho we ate it when it was brought back to us warmed up. We strolled around streets a bit. Went into a bookstore, where there was a public phone. Mary Harriett called John. All is fine with them. Drove around Bellingham a while - then back to Glacier to watch movie after movie. Took them back to De Storehausen. Ate bread + cheese for supper.

20020520 Monday.

Had a very restful day. Finished one book and read half of another. Rainy most of day. In afternoon we drove to Maple Falls to return videos + get two more. Also got chicken pot pies for supper + jello. Ate supper and watched “Town and Country”. Had a lot of big star names but movie was poor.

20020521 Tuesday.

Went for a swim this morning. Mary Harriett relaxing + sleeping. I finished another book. Watched “The Titans” in afternoon, then videos back to Maple Falls. Did laundry. Played cards.

20020522 Wednesday.

Mary Harriett coughing a lot, so slept in living room part of the night. Got stuff organized + were ready to leave about 10:00. Stopped to get ice, mail pkg to Nancy. Went to library to check e-mail. Reminder from Win that my driver’s license is due to be renewed in June. John to Mary Harriett received check from Met Life. Message from Elizabeth - she got pkg. Several from Barbara N. about some Sche. business. Must remember to send her a message. Several from Grace. Sent message to family saying we were leaving Glacier in rain. Got on Rt. 1-5 south. Stopped at Marysville for lunch. Very smokey - guy in booth near us chain smoker. Got on I-90 - headed east - went thru Cascade Mts. I drove last two hours. Stopped at Ellensburg - picked out I-90 Inn. Got food at Albertsons to eat in room. Watched Mariner’s game, then West Wing + Law + Order.

20020523 Thursday.

No coffee maker in our room so I got the stove out of van + heated water in the tea kettle to make coffee. We ate up Mary Harriett’s fruit. Got paper at gas station and after we read paper, got packed and left Ellensburg about 10:30. Stopped to view Colombia River + “Grandfather cuts loose the herd” - which is a group of metal horses up on a hill over looking the river. We stopped for breakfast/lunch at George. It was called Martha’s Cafe. Had a disappointing omelet. Figured out why the name. Town is George, Washington, hence Martha’s Cafe. Drove to Coeur d’Alene. Drove around town to find a place to stay. We asked directions to one place and man told us Flamingo Motel. Nice place, Mary Harriett tired, but feeling better. I walked around town. Nice city, beautiful lake. Mary Harriett called Ann, I called Steven. We ate at Jimmy D’s. had ice cream from local ice cream shop.

20020524 Friday.

Good night. Warmer + sunnier this AM. Got Mary Harriett some coffee from shop across the street. We ate breakfast at Michael D’s in Coeur d’Alene. Rt. 90 took us a little way down Lake - it is really a beautiful. Drove out of Idaho in an hour or so + out of Pacific time. I set the date on my camera in case we ran into some of that snow Montana had on Wednesday. Stopped in Missoula to get lunch + gas. I drove the last leg of trip to Helena. Went up over McDonald pass - 6,000 ft. snow at that level. Found Jorgensen’s Motel. I walked out to take pictures of Capitol bldg. Found some post cards + hat for Helena. Had dinner at adjacent rest. Watched Mariners game.

20020525 Saturday.

Noisy last night, Not a good sleeping night. Ate at adjacent restaurant for breakfast. On road again by 10:30. Drove down I15 to SR 69 - then to Rt I90 to Livingston. Turned south to Yellowstone. Was impressed by snow-capped mountains surrounding us. Got to park about 1:30. Drove to first area Mammoth Springs. Had small lunch then got gas + ice in Gardiner. back to park. Stopped at Springs. I got out + walked to get closer look. Saw some elk. Drove toward “old faithful”. Saw bison, took some pictures. Went over some rough roads. Saw lots of standing dead trees with new growth under them. Got to “old F” but Mary Harriett couldn’t walk to see it. I couldn’t find it! Many buildings there with signs pointing out what bldg was where but I finally had to ask someone “where is the geyser?” He pointed me in the right direction. I found it and the visitors center nearby had a sign that it erupted at 4:44. It was 5:15 and so would not go up again until about 6:25 - didn’t want to wait. Mary Harriett really tired. We drove rest of way to Grant Village got our room + Mary Harriett just collapsed on bed. If she isn't better by tomorrow - taking antibiotic Dentist gave her - we’ll go to clinic.

20020526 Sunday.

Worried about Mary Harriett early in the morning, she was having such trouble breathing. I went and got breakfast at Lake House restaurant (cereal, juice + coffee) and brought back coffee, fruit + roll to Mary Harriett. She did eat the fruit, said coffee was awful and had one bite of cinnamon roll. She got dressed and we went to hospital at Lake Village. They did tests, took X-rays and said she has pneumonia and is anemic. Put her on oxygen right away and finally she could breathe. All very helpful + pleasant people. Dr. S. arranged for her to be admitted to hospital in Cody which is 2,000 ft lower than where we were. I checked out, packed and pick Mary Harriett up at hospital. We were on our way by 4:00. Had a steep road down - had a lot of snow on that side of the park. It was raining while we were going down the mountain - looked like very thick rain to me. Got to Cody about 5:30. Checked in, put in ER for about two hours while two doctors talked to her. Kurt B. turned her over to Dr. K. Finally had a room ready for her. They have all single rooms, unless they need to double up. They put a cot in room for me. I went to Albertson’s to get granola bars, yogurt + bananas. Have her on IV, oxygen + took pill for fever.

20020527 Monday.

Day started with tech coming to take blood. Mary Harriett seems a little better today but still not able to be up on her own. Needs nurse for trip to bathroom. I went out in AM to get room at Holiday Inn, drove around Cody to see where garage is where I will take the car to be serviced. Spent afternoon with Mary Harriett. Went at 5:00 to have dinner at motel, too salty stir fry. They gave in free ice cream + 25% bill. Won’t try that place again. Watched Yankee-WhiteSox game on TV. Staff at hospital seem very nice and giving Mary Harriett good care. Place is very quiet. I have a nice room on first floor at Holiday Inn, big kingsize bed. Mary Harriett called John in afternoon. He must have let lots of people know because she got many phone calls. Mickey, Peggy, Ann, several others, minister.

20020528 Tuesday.

Ate granola bars + made coffee at motel. Called garage, made appointment to have car serviced tomorrow. Went to hospital. They have put Mary Harriett on liquid diet, giving her laxative medicine in preparation for colonoscopy tomorrow. Dr. W. suppose to come in some time to explain stuff to us. I stayed till 9:00 but he didn’t show. I went out in morning to check e-mail in library and to take film to be developed. Couldn’t get on computer till 11:30 and only for 1/2 hour. Took lot of time to go thru messages + get message written. Ate lunch from cafeteria, in Mary Harriett’s room. She has gotten more phone calls, from John, Ann, Marion, Cathy. Watched some TV - left at 9:00. Got supper at DQ. 

20020529 Wednesday.

Got laundry + breakfast before I took the car to be serviced. People at Chrysler dealership very helpful and friendly. Got car washed, was one of those with an “Auto Cashier”/ I put my $6 in the machine + drove in but nothing happened. I backed out and asked the guy in the pick-up behind me what more I had to do. He punched the #1 button once, then again and the washer started. I drove in + car was washed. Went to look at Cody Guest Cottages to see if I could get a place. Landlady showed me rooms up stairs I could have Thurs. + Fri. $25 a night. I went to hospital to see how Mary Harriett is. She had the colonoscopy in the morning. She was sleeping so I went to Maxwell’s for lunch then to library for e-mail. When I got to hospital Mary Harriett was awake. Doc. told her he had removed two polyps + she had a lesion in her stomach. They had worried about colon cancer but found none. I got rest of pictures in morning, spent the afternoon labeling them. Had dinner at Stefan’s very good. Found out Clint Eastwood is going to eat there when he is here for the opening of the Natural History Museum. Watched Miss Universe pageant in evening.

20020530 Thursday.

Up early, checked out of Holiday Inn. Went to hospital. Mary Harriett up and around without oxygen + IV. Doctor is thinking she might be discharged tomorrow + stay in Cody till Monday, then check her out to see if she can travel. I went to Cody Guest House to tell lady I couldn’t take the upstairs place because my sister couldn’t climb stairs. She said she had a cottage she could give us, took me to see it, will charge same as Holiday Inn $39. I said ok. E-mailed family. Heard from Barbara H. Had lunch at cafeteria in Hospital. Went to Buffalo Bill Historic Museum in afternoon. Had dinner at hospital again. The thing I liked best about museum was Art section. Had interesting exhibit of Plains Indians. A new section is opening June 4, natural history, which I wish I could see that one before we leave. Couldn’t find books, went back to Holiday Inn but no one could check house keeping place to see if they were there. Went back to hospital, watched a little TV. Back to guest house about 10:00.

20020531 Friday.

Up early - packed, went to Holiday Inn to check on books, couldn’t find them. Went to hospital, Mary Harriett released about 9:30. We drove around to see where Dr. K.’s office is. To library at 10:30 - checked e-mail. Sent message to Bob L. about hearing his mother on NPR. Went to Albertson’s to get Mary Harriett’s medicine, got a few groceries. Picked up key to Cottage + got my bags. Drove around a little more since the place wasn’t ready yet. Got into cottage about 11:00. Is very nice, old, but nice. Spent rest of day outside on lawn. Got lunch at Granny’s which is right next to us. I walked up the street to find out when the services are at Methodist Church. Also walked around block + stopped to tell housekeeping at Holiday Inn that I found the books when I unpacked the car. Read from book a lot today. Got supper at DQ. Watched a little TV. Bed about 10:00.

20020601 Saturday.

Slept well, took our time in morning, ate breakfast, read paper (I went to Granny’s to get it). Had lunch at Noon Break, which was in “Eating Your way across USA”. Went to library to check e-mail. One from not much, sent message all going well. We drove out toward the west Park entrance about 20 miles. We stopped to read a historic marker at a pull off and some other people were looking across the river - there was a moose there! Watched it eat for awhile, another car pulled in - They are from Mass. Drove back to Cody, saw some deer or antelope. Ate toast + fruit for supper. I finished the mystery novel we were reading. We watched a Clint Eastwood movie, went to bed about 10:00. Cooler than yesterday, and cloudy most of day, looked like rain, saw lightening, heard thunder but only a few drops of rain. Forgot to mention that I went to yarn store + picked out a pattern + yarn + needles. More complicated than I thought and I think I’ll need more yarn so will go back on Monday before we leave. 

20020602 Sunday.

Sunny when we got up but clouds moved in and it was raining by the time I went to church. The church is just a block from our cottage but had to get an umbrella out of the car. Mary Harriett didn’t feel up to going out. People in church friendly, invited me for coffee afterward. Sat with 4 couples who hang out together, they invited us to join them for lunch at a place nearby. I went back to see if Mary Harriett wanted to go. Yes, so we drove up to the restaurant “Tom + Jack’s”. The couples greeted us, we sat near them and chatted some during meal. Had the catfish plate, very good. Drove out of Cody another way, north west, to see what was out there. Not much. Came back, dropped off film, bought denim shirt, picked up film. Rained off and on all day. Did crossword puzzles + watched Tony Awards. Had toast + fruit for supper again. In evening, Nancy L., one of the people I met at church + who works at the museum, stopped by with passes for us to get into the private viewing of the new natural history museum tomorrow 4-7. It was nice of her to get them + track us down to give them to us. Don’t know if we will be here .

20020603 Monday.

Up early, got breakfast eaten, packed + ready to get out of cottage by 9:00. Went to office to pay bill then stopped at newsstand to get USA Today. Bought sign for Steven. Took Mary Harriett to Cody Clinic to see Dr. K. Appt was for 10:00, we got to see him at 11:00. He said the pneumonia was better, but wanted to check blood. Had a lot if trouble getting a sample - took 3 nurses + about 5 holes. Was ok. We got lunch at Tommy Jacks, got two more skeins of yarn + on our way east by 1:45. Went by way of Rt. 16 till it joined I90 in Buffalo. Went over Bighorn Mountains, up to 9,666 ft. Into Buffalo - stopped at McDonald’s to use bathroom + got something to drink. Went on to Gillette. Mary Harriett called John so he could let everyone know we are on the way home. Stopped at Quality Inn. Ate at Village Inn.

20020604 Tuesday.

Had a restless night. Mary Harriett says room was stuffy. We got our stuff together, had our free bkf and went to Kmart to get battery for Mary Harriett’s camera. Got gas $1.39 gal. Back to I90 till Rt. 16 went south east. Road was good until we got near Crazy Horse Monument, road work, twisty, turning narrow road. We paid $16 to get into Visitors Center at Crazy Horse. Saw movie, took pictures, ate lunch + that was all that we did. Drove on to Mt. Rushmore. Paid our $8 to park. Took pictures, got some stuff at gift shop, charm, candy + book of flowers. Headed north on Rt 16 to Rapid City, SD. Drove I90 to Murdo. Stayed at Best Western + ate at Star family rest. At noon had Buffalo Burgers eve. had soup, grilled cheese, fruit. Watched Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra movies.

20020605 Wednesday.

Left Best Western after our Continental Bkf. Stopped for gas in Chamberlin. Went to library in town. Checked e-mail. Note from Cindy Ann - needs letter for Hannah - confirmation on Sunday. Wrote one + sent it to Cindy-Ann. Notes from Bob L., Paula, Joke from Don H., note from P.s - hope Mary Harriett is better. Sent message to family to tell them where we are. Drove thru Mitchell, SD - by Corn Palace but didn’t stop. Looked for Wendy’s - there isn’t one in Mitchell - even stopped at the Visitors Center - looked in phone book, no Wendy’s, no Lott. Drove on - stayed on I90 into Minn. Stopped at visitors center - got maps. oops, had lunch at Perkins in Mitchell. Decided to drive to Albert Lea - had to get gas again - looked for place to stay - turned wrong way but finally picked out Budget Motel. Had dinner in restaurant there - had walleye. Mary Harriett had chicken Marsala. Did laundry - watched TV.

20020606 Thursday.

Slept late - up at 9:00 - went to breakfast at Trumble’s in Albert Lea. Headed south from Albert Lea into Iowa on Rt 35. Got off on Rt 18. Was mostly a country road - saw lots of farms, big fields most planted with corn. Ate lunch at Hardee’s - don't have to try them again. Drove across the Mississippi River into Prairie du Chien. Stopped at visitors center - no coupons, but got maps + info on “House on the Rocks”. Drove along Rt 18 to Rt 23. Drove into place but didn’t go in, entrance fee is $19. Took a couple of pictures, got a post card so Mary Harriett could send one to Zona. Drove on to Madison. While listening to NPR news, we found out Al Gore is going to be in Madison at the Demo Convention. We wondered if we’d have trouble getting a room. We drove around - made some errors in direction but finally found Best Western. Mary Harriett got us a room 152. Ate at TGIF - yes, it is as noisy in there as the others. Mary Harriett called Ann - she was at choir rehearsal, talked to Bruce. I called Cathy, everything fine there.

20020607 Friday.

Had breakfast in hotel - french toast - good. Drove around Madison. Nice city, Headed out about 10:30 - took Rt 12. All was fine till we got into Illinois. Had lunch at Cafe American, near boundary. I picked the wrong route - took a long time - thru city streets to I294 which is a toll road. Traffic was bumper to bumper most of the way. Finally got off Highway and on to Route 20. Found a Days Inn a few miles down the road - had supper at Drifter’s.

20020608 Saturday.

Had coffee + donuts in room - free from motel. Got paper - read it - didn’t get on road until after 10:00. Followed Rt. 20 - turned off on Indiana Dunes road so we could get a look at the lake. Nice beach. Houses built along there - seems like a nice vacation spot. Somehow I got off Rt 20 - went into Michigan - followed Rt 12 E. until Rt. 31. Got on Rt 20 in South Bend Followed that to just east of Elkhart. We went thru Amish country. Had lunch at the village inn in Middleburg. It is in the book, Eating across USA. Said pies were great but the pies were all gone for the day. I had Yamazetti which is a casserole type dish made with noodles, beef, mushroom soup, peas, tomatoes. was ok but “not my favorite”. Drove on small road, saw lots of Amish - plowing, carts, women hoeing gardens. Stopped at shop that makes cheese but kitchen was shut down. Drove on to Yonder Popcorn. Got some Cheddar Cheese powder to give Cathy + some popcorn to give to rest of family. Got back on Rt. 20 - drove, drove + drove - finally got into Ohio - drove + drove - no motels until we got to Toledo. Beautiful farm country. Stopped at Comfort Inn - Ate at Friendly’s. Watched TV. Mary Harriett finished with her Anti-biotic. Had some scotch while watching TV.

20020609 Sunday.

Slept good. Brought church clothes in from car after we ate our free breakfast. Went to Maumec United Methodist Church at 11:00. Very nice building, just redone because there was a fire last year. Ministers at conference - lay speakers did service. Headed for Rt. 2 - goes along Lake Erie - then onto Rt. 6. Ate lunch at Fort Clinton in a seafood place. Nice ride along lake especially when we got near Cleveland. Houses right on lake, one lot from road - we could see the lake. When we got into the city I lost Rt. 20, finally went on I90 to get out of the city. Got back on Rt. 20 - had to back track from Ashtabula to find Comfort Inn to stay at. Ate dinner on our way there. Brought Ann’s package in so Mary Harriett could wrap it.

20020610 Monday.

Mary Harriett coughed a lot last night. We were up in time for free breakfast. Got on road by 10:15. Stuck to I90 till we got to I86. Went on that road to Jamestown - tried to find a place to eat in Salamanca - nothing. Got back on I86 to Olean - ate at Friendly’s. Got gas at Mobil Station - used Nancy’s gift certificate, lady had to call to get confirmation numbers, but it worked. Ran into construction on 417. Took that route, thru rural towns till we got near Corning. Big Route I15 - into Corning. Got to museum of Glass about 4:00. Paid for entry because we can go again tomorrow. Mary Harriett called Ann. She is planning to go to Long Island Sun. to see both Mary Harriett + John. So Mary Harriett will mail her birthday box tomorrow. Watching Red Sox-Rockies game.