2022 East Coast Trip Comments and Observations

We were certainly blessed to be able to visit family and friends across this nation.  The terrain, colors, climate certainly do greatly.  Even the sheer vastness of Utah and the central plains was awesome.

Our adventure was not overly planned, and did not expect to visit every national park, memorial, or sight.  We had originally attempted to look for waterfalls in each state... and found some.  A few states are gravely lacking in waterfalls, but then they must have little height for water to fall.  

We seldom traveled the interstate highways until we departed the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  By then our sights were set on home.  Tolls were avoided as well, as written about in an earlier post.  US Highways, state routes, and county roads varied greatly.  In some areas even the two lane state routes were posted at 70mph!

Small farm towns, larger metropolitan areas, and all between... we never felt threatened or unsafe... maybe a more than a bit unnerved by the highway systems and other drivers.  We didn't try to avoid the inner cities or industrial sections of cities, and even with this, we seldom saw graffiti or even the amount of homeless we have grown accustomed to here in the west.

The south proved to present its own set of challenges.  Ice tea?  Sweet or unsweetened.  Sometimes sweet tea came without being asked for preference.  The rich history was diverse... rich land owners and plantations and the slaves.  We did have a great history tour in Natchez with 'The Rev', a black pastor, who gave some insightful history of the area.  

The hospitality in the south is not a rumor.  Now we do need to admit that we did shop in  several Wal Marts. In some of the small towns we didn't take the time to track down our few needs, but went lazy.  But... even the checkers and employees were friendly and helpful!  

Then in West Virginia the man that helped us back out from the ice cream store parking while a long train was creeping through town.  Many, many examples for us to ponder.

Other than the gas we bought on the side trip with family to New York City, the most expensive gas we saw was right here in Klamath Falls.  We paid as little as $3.82/gallon on the trip.  There weren't any shortages or long gas lines, a plus, as we were hoping to avoid these types of issues.

We relied heavily on the navigation program on our cell phones, along with GPS satellites.  They did well most of the time... but then there were those times that utter failure took us 'somewhere else'.  But those were the interesting times where we experienced unplanned adventures. 

Thank you all for following us... for your encouragement and prayers, and covering our duties and responsibilities here at home while we traveled.

Generalized route of our adventure

America the Beautiful

O beautiful for spacious skies,

For amber waves of grain,

For purple mountain majesties

Above the fruited plain!

America! America!

God shed His grace on thee,

And crown thy good with brotherhood

From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for pilgrim feet

Whose stern impassioned stress

A thoroughfare for freedom beat

Across the wilderness.

America! America!

God mend thine ev'ry flaw,

Confirm thy soul in self-control,

Thy liberty in law.

O beautiful for heroes proved

In liberating strife,

Who more than self their country loved,

And mercy more than life.

America! America!

May God thy gold refine

Till all success be nobleness,

And ev'ry gain divine.

O beautiful for patriot dream

That sees beyond the years

Thine alabaster cities gleam

Undimmed by human tears.

America! America!

God shed his grace on thee,

And crown thy good with brotherhood

From sea to shining sea.

Day 48: HOME!

Yes we are home!  It was a wonderful trip and think it will take us a while to process it all.  

We both woke up early--probably because we were anticipating home coming--and left the motel in Ontario and headed home.  There were many beautiful farms in far Eastern Oregon.  So thankful for the people that still farm.  

The hills are so bare in that part of the state - so very different from most of the country.  Even in Utah there are shapes to add to beauty.  Then we realized that the uniqueness of Eastern Oregon hills is that there is a "ledge" on a great many of them.  It is a layer of rock that stand out from the rest of the hill.  Usually it is horizontal near the top but not always.  There was one that started at ground level and went diagonally up and to the left. 

We went from Highway 395 west on the Christmas Valley road - first time.  Very interesting scenery.  Lots of sage brush from as far as the eye can see right up to the fog line on the road.  There was at one point along the way where there were over 10 miles of very tall, newer, power poles with a number of wires.  It was spooky driving alongside these massive poles as they looked like a nearly solid wall when looked at on end.  After Silver Lake there were juniper trees that later transitioned into pines. This is when we knew we were close.  It had been weeks since pine trees were so prominent alongside the road.  

Just about eight miles north of town - in the curves before the gravel plant - we were stopped by road construction.  It was the longest stop the entire trip (second longest was waiting for a train in Kansas).  Before we got to go 80+ vehicles went by us heading north.  As we got to the waiting cars on the other end, there were 138 vehicles waiting their turn to move.  We didn't know what was further up the road so we took Lakeport Blvd from near the weigh station and went down by JELD-WEN and then went through town.  It was 1:10 so we stopped at King Wah for lunch--about three blocks from home.  We knew once home we wouldn't want to take time for a meal.  Arrived home at 1:54 - 47 days and 30 minutes from the time we left Klamath Falls.

MILEAGE CHALLENGE:  First of all I (Karen) would like to apologize for misleading some in our early conversations.  I guessed 10,522.  Thank you all of participating.

ACTUAL MILES:  8,347.  Jana W. was closest at 8,253 - just 94 miles off.  Werner R. was exactly 300 miles over with a guess of 8,647 - was that a typo Werner?

Over the next few days we'll add some overall comments and observations.  We want to thank each of you for your encouragement and prayers as we wandered about, as well as the hours you took in reading of our exploits.

Day 47: Storms, Sage Brush, Shadows and SO Much More

Unlike yesterday when we decided to travel the interstate, today we chose to travel US 20 through the middle of Idaho.  It was a wise choice because the roads were good and not crowded and, because there wasn't stress from heavy traffic, we were able to enjoy the scenery which was varied and captivating. 

We started our morning (49 degrees--burr), by walking just two blocks from our hotel and being on a River Walk along the Snake River.  We decided to explore the options for this river walk, so drove 3/4 mile and were in the middle of Idaho Falls and at the "Falls" of Idaho Falls.  We enjoyed a nice walk, saw interesting views and learned how and why the falls are the way they are.  

When we left town we were headed straight for a black wall of clouds.  It didn't take long for us to be driving through that wall.  We had to slow down because of the intensity of the rain which lasted about 15 minutes.  We could see other storms in every direction.  We had to pass through one more but missed what could have been very unhospitable.  We noticed what looked like snow along side the road near Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.  First it was just a few patches but as we drove it got heavier and then there was about and inch on one side of the road for about 1/2 mile.  It was hail; and it looked like it hadn't been there long.  So thankful we did not have to drive through a hail storm.

It was a hilly drive; up and down and round and round with sage brush everywhere.  Then there were areas of hay fields and fields being watered by irrigation lines.  We felt like we were driving around home.  Then there were a number of canyons with water along side.  After the storms passed mid-afternoon the sky was full of white puffy clouds that made beautiful shadows on the hill side and also on the road.  We drove in and out of shadows for quite a long ways.

We finally had to connect with I84.  That is such a busy interstate, and where most vehicles are going
80 or more, it calls for complete attention.  We finally got through the Boise area and traffic thinned out but was still intense.  We were glad to get into Ontario, Oregon.  

Again, God showered us with His grace by having all that we needed and wanted in one place.  We had decided on the place we wanted to eat.  It was right next to Home Depot where we wanted to check out lawn mowers.  No, we are bringing one home in the Prius but we were able to see what they had in case they weren't available when we got home.  The Home Depot here is in a shopping area with many restaurants, Big Lots, Harbor Freight, clothing stores--very interesting.  And our motel was just across the street.  Didn't have to use GPS to navigate--so wonderful.

This should be our last light away from home.  We have been gone two days shy of 7 weeks.  We are more than ready for home. Over the next few days after we get our house back in order we'll be able to add a few additional comments and observations gleaned over these many weeks.  And of course, the results of the total mileage challenge presented in early May.

Day 46: Eyes On Home

Our trip has been so full of family, fun and adventure but all good things must come to an end.  We had a long travel day from Buffalo, Wyoming to Idaho Falls, Idaho so we started at 7:30 this morning.  Right off we had to decide whether to take the interstate which was 70 miles further but 30 minutes shorter driving or the cross-country route.  We chose the interstate because there were places to stop every couple of hours.

We had checked weather last night and all seemed to be OK for the trip, but it got dark just after we left Buffalo, and started to rain about an hour into the trip.  By the time of our first stop in Billings, Montana it was pouring rain so hard that we had the wipers on full time.  We had coffee and a snack and it was still raining when we left.  Thankfully it ended 40 minutes or so after that stop.  It stayed cloudy all day but there was no wind which made things much nicer.  We had considered a car wash yesterday to remove several days of prairie bugs that had accumulated on the front of the car.  The rain today cleaned the front of the car quite well... it looks like we had gone to a car wash.  Money and time saved!

We listened to two of Pastor Russ's teachings on the Olivet Discourse and they gave us encouragement and exhortation to keep following and trusting in Jesus no matter what is happening around us.  We could use that kind of instruction every day as there are so many things assaulting our senses and vying for our attention.  We also continued listening to a book by Clive Cussler.  

This morning the drive was through more rolling, grassy hills.  There were a lot of cattle and horses along the way.  We saw a couple of deer but thankfully they were away from the road.  There were a couple of dead ones along the road also--just like home.  Also, this morning we saw irrigation lines running--first time in over five weeks. Another reminder of home.  There was a section just south of Billings where the roadside billboards were all mangled heaps of metal and wood.  We were wondering if a freak windstorm came through--maybe the storm that brought so much rain to Yellowstone NP.  Chuck found the cutest little pull out for us to have our lunch.  It was alongside the raging Gallatin River.  

The drive this afternoon reminded us of Colorado--mountainous, through canyons with lots of streams and trees.  We saw an unnamed waterfall and were able to stop for a picture.  We did skirt the edge of Yellowstone National Park as we crisscrossed the Montana / Wyoming state line several times.  The rivers in the region are raging.  The Yellowstone River was high enough that many trees seemed to be growing mid-stream. 

It was a nice--though long-nine hour day.

Day 45: Westward Bound

Prairie Dog

Another busy, sensory overload day even though we thought it would be a rather boring day of mainly driving.  It all started yesterday.  Chuck had mentioned that he would have really liked to see the Bad Lands National Park, but since we changed our motel reservations it wasn't going to happen.  But as we were looking over the route and distances, we realized that: 1) Bad Lands were only an hour from where we were staying and 2) it was actually a short driving day. SO...

Bad Lands NP

Today we got up early because we knew it would be warm and wanted to go through the Bad Lands before it got too hot.  It was already 80 when we left our motel at 7:10. Karen was concerned that since she had seen so much green that hills with no trees would be a letdown.  Not at all.  They are actually a marvel of nature--prairie grass on top of mounds of colored rock.  Also, there are two parts to this National Park--the upper plateau and the lower plateau.  We were able to see the colored strata from below, above and at eye level.  In many ways the Bad Lands reminded us of Bryce Canyon National Park in southern Utah.  

Martin VanBuren

Andrew Jackson

After leaving the Bad Lands we couldn't agree on what the rest of the day would look like, so we decided to take a break at a coffee shop in Rapid City, South Dekota.  God orchestrated that!  We navigated to "Alternative Fuel" coffee house which happened to be in the middle of the city (74,700) people.  Fun coffee place--although we had smoothies and we were able to sit outside because even though it was 85 degrees or so. There was nice shade and a strong breeze that keep us comfortable.  We learned that Rapid City is called the city of the presidents, not because Mt. Rushmore is close, but because there was a bronze statue of every president on the street corners right around where we were.  We strolled up one side of Main Street and down the other to see about half of the presidents.  It was great and also there were many cute shops to peer into.  Having enough of that, we continued the journey for the day.

Sturgis, South Dakota, which is about half an hour from Rapid City was a transitioning point from prairie grass to "black hills".  We jested about why the hills are called black, coming up with many differing reasons, but decided that the "black" came from what the hills looked like with pine trees--and
the stark contrast to what we had been seeing for a number of days.  And the hills were real hills where a person cannot see for miles and miles.  It really was like driving 58 from Chemult to Oakridge.  Then we entered Wyoming and the scenery changed back to prairie.  A ways into Wyoming we looked and there in the distance were the Rocky Mountains, topped with snow.  What a sight!!  So the rest of our trip to Buffalo, Wyoming was with the mountains as a reminder that we are getting closer to home.  Surprise!  There were quite a few motorcycles on the road in South Dakota... most were Harley's.

Observations from today: 

• There were fields of large round bales of hay--hadn't see much hay in fields up until today.
• Saw more horses than any other place.  Also buffalo outside the Bad Lands
• Overhead message signs on the free still alert to Yellowstone National Park being closed because of severe flooding.
• Interstate 90 has gates that close the freeway in the event of severe storms.  
  

Day 44: A Traveling Day

Today we just traveled but saw more beautiful country in Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota.  We are both looking forward to getting home.  Easy drive as most of it was on I 90 which is straight and flat.  We listened to a book which also helps pass the time. 

We had our 'picnic' lunch at a very nice rest area in South Dakota. There was a tiny chapel that was open for travelers.  There were free copied of the NIV bible as well as devotionals. Very nice.

The wind today was incredible, blowing from the south-east.  We could watch mile after mile of grain waving in the very brisk wind.  Later this afternoon the horizon was much more obscured by dust.

Made an error in an earlier post.  We have been gone 6 weeks, not 7.

Day 43: And the Amazement Continues

You would think that after being on the road for 7 weeks that the "AwHa" moments would be over.  Not so.  Today we drove through a portion of Wisconsin and were taken aback by a number of different "new" sights to tickle the eyes.  And then driving in Iowa--who would have thought that things could be different?  This blog will look at distinctions in Wisconsin and Iowa.  It was very windy today and our gas milage was way down.

WISCONSIN:  1) there are many taller hills in Wisconsin and planners/engineers/builders did not let those hills get in the way of putting in a good highway system.  We drove through numerous "cuts" to level and straighten the roads that had to have been excavated before roads were built.  The exposed earth under all the fruitful fields are layers of clay.  What the road can be compared to is I5 between Grants Pass and Roseburg except instead

Wisconsin farmland and Lake Winnebago

of trees it is all fields.  2) many barns and silos, grain and corn fields side by side.  The wind that is so troublesome for driving gives a grand picture as it causes ripples in the grain fields.  3) Montana does not have the corner on "big sky".  On the top of any hill there was sky in every direction.  No clouds at all today.  

IOWA:  1) it truly is the corn state.  Miles and miles of corn on low rolling hills as opposed to higher ones. In some fields the corn is only a few inches high and in others it is about 2 feet tall.  2)  a depressing sight when coming into Iowa the way we did was the first billboard you see is inviting you to a casino. 3) we had a difficult time getting lunch today.  We navigated to a Chinese Buffet that was closed because of labor shortage.  Then we couldn't find the Mongolian grill in the indoor mall indicated by the GPS.  We later found it had only an outside entrance.  Strange mall.

God showering His grace.  When we decided to find a lunch spot Chuck used his phone and plugged in the location.  It took us on some roads going through corn fields.  Then we needed a rest area and there was one on these back roads.  In fact the road dead ended at the rest area.  So weird.

General note on weather.  It was hot from the time we left Oregon until we got to the Upper Peninsula. There the weather was more like Oregon--warm in the day but cooler at night.  But that changed when we left the UP--even before we left Michigan.  I became hot and humid once again.

General note on entire trip.  There have been so many experiences with different weather, food, scenery, animals, plants, and people.  It has been overwhelming but also a huge reminder of how infinitely creative our God is.  If we had only seen a lot of one area, I think we would have just begun to take it for granted.  Seeing so many continues to cause us to see a bigger picture.

Day 39-42: June 12-15 Upper Michigan Peninsula and into Wisconsin

It is 7am Thursday morning and we are taking time to get caught up.  We will begin with our UP (Upper Peninsula) time.

Sunday-June 12--We went to church at Calvary Chapel Bay City, Michigan.  The "church" was welcoming and kind.  It was a small group--a number were gone for various reasons.  It was evident that Pastor Mike loves his flock.  The service only lasted an hour and we headed to sister-in-law Laura's in Newberry, Michigan.  Had to cross the famous Mackinac Bridge (along with a toll that has only increased $0.75 since the bridge opened in 1957).

Laura greeted us with such kindness and hospitality.  We visited and caught up and even got friendly with cat, Aurora. We made plans to go to Sault Ste Marie (the Soo) on Monday morning.

Monday-June 13--We woke up not feeling well--tummy issues--so it was decided we would just hang

out.  We watched a very informative video on the history of the Mackinac Bridge and life before there was a bridge--great history.  By the time lunch rolled around (we had taken a nap) we felt better and decided to go for a "drive".  First stop:  a lovely camping area with a very serene fishing dock.  So quiet and peaceful. We walked down a trail and found a momma duck with about 10 little ducklings in tow.  She didn't waste any time in finding shelter away from curious eyes, so we didn't get picture.  Second stop: a water fall that had 186 steps down to the bottom--and the sign reminded everyone that there were 186 steps up also).  This was a great waterfall because we got to see it from top, middle and bottom.  It was very beautiful.  Third stop: a light house and a rock collecting beach.  A person can't collect rocks on every beach of the great lakes--it is illegal. Rock collecting is addictive--you have several and think that is enough but there is just one more that is "so special".   Forth stop: a log run to the lake (have to remember that Lake Superior is more like an ocean because of its size).  Back in the day, loggers would slide logs down this very steep, sandy bluff and then ships would take them away.  It is possible to climb down this bluff--takes about 5 minutes.  But you have to climb back up on the steep, sandy incline, which takes at least an hour. We decided that wasn't for us.  We got back to the house in time to have dinner.  So much to do in such a short distance--Laura drove 96 miles.  We watched the second video on the actual construction of the bridge that evening.  Amazing how things got done with so little technology and modern machinery.  

Tuesday, June 14--We felt better so left about 8 to go "The Soo" for a boat trip on the locks.  It is about

In the locks with another tour boat

an hour drive to get there.  On the tour we through the American locks, both upstream and downstream.  We couldn't use the Canadian locks because of COVID.  It is silly because we don't land, just tie up while the water level is being changed.  In this case it is 21 feet which takes about 15 minutes.  It was a time for Karen to learn patience.  Especially with a bar that is used to keep ice out in the winter.  She didn't see why it had to move so slowly. While at The Soo we were just across from Canada, learned about the bridge that

Ship waiting to enter locks

connects this part of Michigan with Canada.  Just such history and differences in culture living on a massive lake so close to Canada.  We had lunch at Antlers (can you guess what it looks like by the name?).  Karen tried another regional dish: Poutine.  It is basically French fries, brown gravy and cheese curds.  Interesting - Karen tried a Buffalo Chicken variation.  There is the "Tower of History" in The Soo so we went and explored.  It really is just a tall little building with observation decks on top.  The views were great.  We rode the elevator up but Karen walked down the 280 steps.  The stair well (all metal) was very rusty and in need of maintenance--but it was cool going round and

Canada across the river

round and looking down between the steps.  Then we had to stop at a special place for a cookie, and a
couple of lookouts over the lake.  Our trip was 160 miles. At "home" that night we watched a video of life on Mackinac Island--both past and present -  very interesting as well.  There are no cars on the island.  Lots of commercial things but Laura said there are many places to explore away from the hustle and bustle of tourism.

Wednesday, June 15--We were able to experience mid-west storms, not once but twice.  We left Laura's about 8 and stopped for a rest in Escanaba, Michigan.  We were relaxing and visiting with a shopkeeper.  Outside it was getting darker and darker and all of a sudden it began to rain, POUR.  We

were ready to leave but the rain wouldn't let us.  There wasn't much lightning, and the people didn't seem to be alarmed.  About 20 minutes later there was no more rain.  We left but had to drive through an almost flooded intersection and several flooded blocks to get on the highway.  Five miles down the road it was dry.  Crazy.  When we got to our hotel about 3pm it was 90 degrees, muggy and sunny.  About 5 it started getting dark and windy.  By six it was more like the middle of the night.  All normal programming was pre-empted by weather advisories (so Jeopardy was out for the evening) about the storm.  Even though there was a tornado watch we didn't get to see anything but rain and wind.  We have video of a downspout from a roof nearby just gushing water.  We watched as a little "valley" just outside our window went from grass to a wide little river.  It reminded us of the Bay of Fundy where the tide raises very quickly.  The storm, which had a tremendous about of lightning and thunder, lasted about 45 minutes.  We opened our window to take a picture and realized it was not cold, but still quite warm--unlike what we'd expect in Oregon.  Weird.

Thursday, June 16--This morning it is bright, sunny and in the 70s.  What these last few days remind me (Karen) of is the complexity of God.  There was the tranquil fishing spot, the power in a great lake, the beauty of a waterfall.  All of these are fairly constant.  Then there are the storms like yesterday where things change in a matter of minutes.  All of them so breathtaking.

Day 37 - 38: North-bound

Last night, Friday, for whatever reason, we were too tired to think.  So, this is the catch-up blog.

FRIDAY, June 10:  Mainly Ohio.  It is just impossible to explain how on Thursday we thought we were seeing the most beautiful part of America in the mountains of West Virginia, but today it was just as beautiful--but there were no mountains.  Ohio is filled with fields of grain and corn crops.  Some of the grain is 3 feet tall, most of the corn is between 6 and 18 inches.  Oh, and there are also the hay fields.  Didn't see much hay down--they must store it right away, but there were literally hundreds of fields that were starting to grow their second or third crop.  And these fields went on and on and finally ended at the edge of groves of trees.  The country was so flat that a person could see for what appeared to be miles and miles of God providing food for so many.

Hayden Falls, Columbus, OH

We stopped in Columbus, Ohio for a waterfall that was in the middle of the city.  It was a short walk on a board walk--very pleasant.  It was very close to a freeway overpass where we saw a couple of homeless people.  So sad.  We also read about a "corn" field.  It is amazing what ideas some people come up with!

Concrete corn field

We took some time after arriving in Bellefontaine, Ohio for lunch.  We both decided we liked this bustling town of 13,000.  There seemed to be much happening -- a thriving active small town.  In a little park in front of an old building 2 couples were having a Bible study at a table.  A man saw us holding hands and asked us a question (don't remember what it was) but that sparked a conversation.  Turns out the man was Pastor Robin Ricks.  I believe the LORD gives pastors special ability to engage people.  We never felt intimidated, just welcomed and appreciated.

We made it to our friends' house about 3:30. We were able to see how well they manage their 10 acres.  Paul, Gretchen and the animals all seemed very content.  It was good catching up for a few hours.  So thankful they have a church home and are involved.  A couple of horse drawn buggies went by while we were there.

SATURDAY (today): Slept in a little later today and took more time getting ready for the day.  We were hoping to visit an Amish store or two to look around but didn't see any.  The terrain in Michigan is much more like western Oregon.  So much different than what we encountered over the past few weeks.  Today there were ordinary farms with modest homes.  Lots of different kinds and conditions of barns and silos.  Some were very well maintained, some were ready to be torn down, and some needed much TLC.  The fields in Michigan have grass and shrubs growing between the road and the fields.  In Ohio the area between road and field was like a well-manicured lawn.  There are a lot of US flags flown in both Ohio and Michigan.  In many of the small towns we have gone through there have been US flags accompanied by banners showing pictures of hometown heroes.

We stopped in Jackson, Michigan for a coffee, saw that there was an state old prison had tours, so we went by because the website was very uninformative.  We arrived half an hour before it opened so we just had a "tail gate" lunch only to find out that reservations were needed for a tour.  So we came on to Birch Run.  We looked at "things to see in Birch Run".  Only attraction listed was the largest outlet mall in the Midwest.  You know what shoppers we are and how excited we were--not.  We did walk around 1 (one) or 4 sections--a fifth section was empty.  It took us an hour and we found nothing that to buy.

It is strange what kinds of things we do.

We probably will not be posting for a few days while in the UP--internet is sparce.

Day 36: Taking It All In

Today was just a day for getting from one place (Keyser, West Virginia) to another (Caldwell, Ohio)--200 miles, but there were lessons to be learned and time to ponder events from our trip.  

God has watched over us the entire way.  Yesterday, Caldwell was under a tornado watch but we were safe a good distance away.  

God has been good to our family.  There was a rather major "hiccup" in Lucas and Celeste's move, but the LORD showed the way and they are moving forward--and other people are being blessed.

God has taught us a lesson on stereo types.  We have heard stories of how West Virginians are not to be trusted.  We have had two times in the last two days that West Virginians have gone out of their way to help us personally.  And one time where they acted quickly to help many.

God has opened our eyes to such beauty.  Since we don't travel long distances we are able to take in things that go unnoticed when in a rush.

STORIES:  

Lucus and Celeste:  They had more "stuff" than they thought and the truck wasn't big enough to take it all.  Some of the wood working Lucas had done (Adirondack chairs, a blanket ladder and more) were given to neighbors who were very grateful.

West Virginians 1:  When we stopped for ice cream yesterday, we angle parked adjacent to the building.  When we go ready to leave there was a train going by just a few feet from where we parked.  There was a long line of cars behind us so we couldn't back out.  One guy inched his car closer to the railroad crossing and then directed the other cars so we could back out.  We could have sat there for quite a while (trains go very slowly through town and they are usually very long).  Such a kind gesture. 

West Virginians 2:  We are driving along a straight section of road (doesn't happen often) and we see
this rental truck just stopped in the middle of the road--no hazard lights or anything.  The driver motions for us to stop.  We were hesitant but stopped--didn't roll the window down all the way.  The man said there was a tree across the road at the bottom of a grade and it would be a while before it is cleared.  He told us how to go around.  Well, we decided to go on anyway.  It was eight miles down a mostly steep down grade with many very sharp curves on this very narrow road.  But it was beautiful with a creek sometimes and much lush, green.  SIDE NOTE:  the grades here are 9% that last for several miles and have many sharp curves.  Sure enough there was a tree across the road about 10 miles from where the man stopped us.  We were about 4 cars and 4 motorcycles from the tree. That man did not have to stop and try to help others.  We figured that the tree must have come down at least an hour before given the transit times.  There were only 18 vehicles on the other side of the downed tree.

West Virginians for all:  We had not been stopped more than 15 minutes at the downed tree when emergency vehicles from both sides of the downed tree came and cut the tree up and got us going.  It was a joy to see them just start cutting and throwing the wood to the side of the road.  Both the crews were volunteer fire departments.  This was at about 10am.  This delay was shorter than the time to get from the 911 memorial to time square in New York City!

Beauty:  Who but God could have long, straight roads turn into 9% grades with hairpin turns.  From dense deciduous tress to corn and hay fields.  Trees that are different shades of green.  

Thankful for all that we have seen and done and thankful to be able to have time to ponder.

Observations over time:

We've traveled quite a few miles and seen so many wonderous sights. It's always amazing to see the subtle differences in customs from region to region.  

In the east it is not uncommon to have large, very large, lawns between the highway and the house.  Sometimes many acres of well maintained lawn.  It's quite a buffer although there are seldom trees enough to create a visual barrier.  Yes, there appears to be clover in some of the lawns, but our favorite lawn weed, dandelions, appear to be virtually nonexistent.

The hills are exquisite.  The older roads running through these hills are typically narrow and windy.  I suspect the remnants left from pre-Civil War era horse paths.  It is difficult to see the picturesque valleys because of the dense foliage on the mile upon mile of trees.

Many 'towns' are listed as non-incorporated, and nothing more than a few houses loosely grouped together with an oft abandoned store or service station - the signs of more prosperous days past.  It wasn't uncommon to drive 10 or 20 miles and see nothing but trees, then come upon one of these little towns, and maybe a second one a mile or so further down the road.

West Virginia is a land forgotten... by Verizon.  We had virtually a full day without cell coverage.  The hotel we stayed at in Keyser had poor Wi-Fi.  We become so dependent on these services, both as consumers, and as business, that without them we are hindered, although not quite like Lewis and Clark making their way west 115 years ago.  We had a difficult time finding our hotel last night even with having their address and phone number.  All they had was a small sign on the highway, but was not visible otherwise.  No phone books, no cell signal, no data for maps navigation.  How often have we used a pay phone in the last five years? Are there still pay phones?

Day 35: Slow and Easy

Hadley Library

The Ritters are an amazing team.  They had things very under control as far as packing for their move.  We did a few little things to help but left about 10:30am.  We drove to a cute little town just over an hour northwest, Winchester, Virginia where there is a great library with quite a history.  The Hadley Library was built with private money.  

We had lunch at a local eatery and enjoyed our meal, then walked around some more in Old Town Winchester and then headed to Keyser, West Virginia.  Have to say that although there are many curvy roads in West Virginia, the last 15 or so miles before reaching Keyser were flat and straight--a lot like highway 97 north.

Inside the library

We had some ice cream at a small local shop once we entered town.  After getting on the main road, and driving through town, we realized we had been in "old town" and that there was a whole new and different part to Keyser.  There is a Dennys, Subway, Walmart, Napa Auto--just like home.

Our little room has something that none of the other rooms have had--a view.  We see beautiful green hills and wonderful sky with clouds--not the back of buildings, or a highway.  Very peaceful and quiet.

Day 31-34: Runnin' with the Ritters

 Day 31--June 4--Saturday.  Colonel Ritter informed the family that it was, "Wheels up, feed and watered by 8:30".  We were so excited that we were on the road at 8:15. Lucus' parents (Bob and Patty), Lucas, Celeste, Declan, Wyatt and us 2 were on our way to New York City in a big, white Suburban.  It was typical east coast traffic.  

We were delayed because of an accident but we did arrive in New York City about 1:30pm only to be halted before going into the Holland tunnel (which goes under the Hudson River).  During our time underwater we didn't notice any leaks!  Arriving at a nearby parking garage near the 911 memorial the walk began. We all visited the memorial--so sobering.  Some of us walked around for a while and some just sat and watched people.  There are truly amazing buildings in that area.  An old one that we read up on and were amazed by was the Woolworth Building.  Then some decided to go up into the New World Trade Center Building (tallest building in the Western Hemisphere) at 103 stories.  The view is amazing--a highlight of the trip.  We had a big fiasco getting New York Pizza (at Joe's) but it was good and tided us over until dinner.  Then some wanted to see Times Square, so we drove there.  We were able to cruise through the myriad of narrow streets at about a mile every 15 minutes.  There was one thing we learned.  Not all honking is negative.  Some honks say something like, "Go ahead and come over into this lane ahead of me." Or, "You're clear to change lanes."  Anyway, we saw Times Square and then left the city.  Our rental house was in Elizabeth City, New Jersey.

Our house was beautiful, unique and old (built in the 1920s).  It had a swimming pool and hot tub which were newer than 100 year old house--tall ceilings, and 3 fireplaces on 3 floors.  The stairs were steep.  We were all very tired as we didn't get there until 9pm. A long, busy 14 hour day.

Day 32--June 5--Sunday.  We have been on the road a month today.  How did we spend our one month anniversary?  On land and sea!  We had ferry tickets to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty scheduled for noon.  We arrived at the terminal at 11 but it was a long walk to where we boarded.  We also had to go through security--where we were required to wear masks (the only place our entire trip so far).  And security took about 3 minutes.

Some of us thought that Ellis Island might take an hour, Statue of Liberty an hour and we would be home by 3pm or so and relax.  No!! There was so much history on Ellis Island, we were there over 3 hours and left much unseen.  A quick ferry trip and an hour and a half at Statue of Liberty.  The time cut short because we were pushing the time of the last ferries for the day.  So thankful for the time there.  Too much to tell about.

Someone had heard about "seafood boil" and so we found a place with good reviews so went in search of this new 'find'.  It was quite an experience.  The seafood you choose, along with potatoes, corn and spices are boiled in a bag.  You are given plastic gloves and bibs and fancy utensils for cracking your crab.  Those that had it were very satisfied and glad for the experience.  Then there was also those in the group that were thankful for other menu options.

Needless to say, we didn't get back to the house until almost 9pm.  Long, fun day.

June 6--Monday.  The plan was to drive over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and into Annapolis, Maryland on our drive back to Virginia but once we got on the road at 10:30--and because of traffic, we had to drive straight home.  The rental car had to be back by 5pm, when the rental office closed.  We did stop for lunch, and delays because of accident caused congestion, but the rental car was returned at 4:59pm so no extra charges.  Yeah!!!  We all were so thankful for Lucas driving the 586 long, slow, sometime scary miles.

June 7--Tuesday-today.  We spend a solid 2 hours packing and then the rest just visiting and hanging out.  There was laundry and packing.  Tomorrow morning Bob and Patty will leave for the airport at 6am.  We will hang out for a while and probably pack some.  Then we will leave and the Ritters will spend their last night in Virginia together.  We are starting to head west.

Runnin' with the Ritters is quite an experience!!

Day 30: The End of One and a Beginning of Another

There really aren't words to express the goodness, grace and mercy God has showered on our family.  God is always good and gracious, but we have been able to enjoy He love shown in these ways.  So amazing and we are so very thankful.

Yesterday, June 2.  It poured rain around 3pm, then cleared up an hour later.  We drove to Jiffy Lube Arena at 6:15 for Wyatt's graduation which started at 7pm--got there just in time.  The two adult speakers were short and encouraging.  The two student speakers were short but didn't inspire very much.  There were 796 students receiving diplomas--it took and hour and 15 minutes for all of them to walk to get their diplomas, during which time there was another downpour for about 20 minutes.  The arena was covered and the coolness was refreshing.  The drive home was surprisingly easy.  Our Wyatt is officially a high school graduate!! We are so proud.

Today, June 3.  We woke up to a typical summer Klamath day-low 60s, not much humidity.  We all got to Manassas National Battlefield Park, location for Wyatt's swearing into the Coast Guard at the 10:30 start time.  It was very humbling and emotional watching Lucas remind us what it means to serve in the armed forces and then to administer the oath to Wyatt.  A precious, memorable time.  Wyatt is officially enlisted in the Coast Guard with an active duty date of August 16.  

The rest of the morning and afternoon were spent doing day-to-day things.  Wyatt's friend Anne was with us for a while but had to go to work.  It was nice meeting her. This evening we had a wonderful meal including brisket on the Traeger, lots of left overs that needed to be eaten because of our trip tomorrow, and cake, cards and gifts--Wyatt's graduation party. It was just  the 8 of us and the adopted Virginia gramma (Barbara) for dinner.  She truly is part of the Ritter family and everyone is grateful for her.

Thank you, thank you Jesus for blessing us so abundantly.

Day 29: Catch Up Over the Past Few Days

Day 29: Noon, Thursday, June 2.  A very good time to catch everyone up on what has been going on because in about 4 hours it will begin to be a whirlwind--we hope just metaphorically--not actually.  We will be having a scrumptious, homemade, rib dinner before attending Wyatt's graduation at 7pm.  The graduation is an outdoor venue. The issue is that there are possible thunderstorms predicted for this afternoon and evening.  We just love our God who knows about all of this and in 11 hours we will be glorifying Him for what He did.  This moment though, Bob, Patty, Lucas and Celeste are taking their red Suburban (they have had for 10 years) to its new home about an hour from here.  Declan and Wyatt are chilling, and we are getting caught up on different things.  Earlier this morning--6am--Lucas and Wyatt went to the gym to work out one final time.

So, to catch everyone up on the last few days:

Day 25: Sunday, May 29.  We went to church at Calvary Roanoke, VA.  The teaching was on John 6:1-13--the feeding of the five thousand.  There was an emphasis on the bread, both before it was distributed and also what was left over.  What Karen took to heart was:  what was given--even though little--was used in a mighty way and what was left over was more than enough.  There was a power-point slide that showed a basket of bread on one side and a pie chart on the other.  The pastor explained that we as people can have our time and resources "charted" out or we can give what we have (which He has given us) and we will receive back more than what we gave.  Great application!

After church we drove to Lucas and Celeste's and began to have great family time.

Day 26: Monday, May 30--Memorial Day.  We didn't do much but hung out, played games and got caught up on both what has happened and what would be happening the next week and a half.  We went out for ice cream in the middle of the day to a place that has very specialty ice cream items.  As a group we had a variety of ice cream concoctions, including a half hot fudge sundae and half peanut butter milkshake.  The cherry dip on Karen's cone was about 1/4 inch thick--way rich. Of course, we had hamburgers, hot dogs and watermelon for dinner.

Day 27: Tuesday, May 31. Lucas went to work, and Wyatt went to his first graduation practice at 9am.  Celeste and Karen took Declan to the metro so he could go into DC and hang out until Lucas got off work.  Then they did a little shopping.  When Lucas got off work, Declan met him, and they went to the airport to pick up Bob and Patty (Lucas' parents).  Their plane landed on time but it was a very long wait for the luggage to get put out.  All 8 of us enjoyed homemade tacos and chatted away.  There were different games being played also.  Fun family time.

Day 28: Wednesday, June 1.  Lucas went into work for his final day before they leave. Wyatt went to his final graduation practice at 7am.  We went and had the oil changed in the car.  Then we gals did a little shopping during the day and went with Celeste's friend Barbara to dinner in the evening.  What a riot that was.  It seems as though Celeste and Barbara have become "best friends" with a waitress at Uncle Julios Mexican restaurant.  The food was good and the fellowship was great.  When we got home there were more games and conversation.  Good day.

Are you tired?  We are getting rested up even though there has been activity.  Hopefully, tomorrow, Friday we will post about graduation AND Wyatt's swearing into the Coast Guard which is supposed to happen at 10:30 tomorrow morning.  

Thanks for hanging out with us!