03/26/07

 


Road Trip: Carl, TomO and TomD start our trip across 2/3 of the US

April/May 2004 Midwest Car Trip

April 25, 2004 - May 24, 2004:

 

 

Day 1 ­ SFO to Las Vegas

560 Miles

22.3 mpg

9.5 hours

 

Ken drove us with our piles of luggage to the San Francisco Airport where we rented a Pontiac Montana mini-van for the start of our drive to Columbus, Ohio.  Our trip started at exactly 9:00 AM on a sunny Monday morning.

 

We made good time, taking turns driving.  We stopped briefly for lunch at Buttonwillow.  We continued towards Bakersfield where we turned east toward on CA-58 through Tehachapi to Barstow.  There we got on I-15 for the final, straight shot to Las Vegas.

 

Randy called the night before and told us he was going to be in Las Vegas on business.  We checked in to our room at the Excalibur and Randy came over to our hotel and we walked to a restaurant at the Mandalay Bay Hotel.  When I was here some years ago, the Excalibur was the newest hotel and was at the extreme south end of the strip … now there is Luxor, Mandalay Bay, New York, New York, Balagio, Paris, blah, blah.  Overwhelming!


TomD, TomO and Carl

 

From: kasey

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27 

 

Carl!

 

Las Vegas?  Excellent!

 

Remember, if the dealer is showing a "2", treat it like a "10"...with 11 or less against a bust card, think about doubling down...don't buy insurance...AND remember, you just gotta beat the dealer!

 

Hope you're having a blast.  I really enjoyed Room Service...especially your character!  You and the playwright were the two most enjoyable people to watch.   I forgot to mention it after the show, but Ms. Anis was there too and she wanted me to tell you that she also really enjoyed it.

 

Hit me up when you get back.

 

=-Kasey

 

PS -- I'm going on a cruise this weekend!

 

 

From: "John P

Subject: Any Roads Leading to Scottsdale? 

 

Tom,

 

Lemonade will be waiting if your marathon takes you this way.  Rooms available as well. Towels clean!

Thurs. morn through Sat (home about 4 pm) we'll be in Carlsbad.  Otherwise here.

 

Much love, J & J

 

 

From: Carol

 

Sounds like fun! Thanks for the pictures. I need to learn how to do that.  Maybe one day I can come and learn or you can come and teach and I will feed you. How does that sound? I have a super digital camera, but don't know what to do with it. I would love to send photos on e-mail.

 

Carol

 

 

From: "Frank"

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27 

 

Hi Tom

Nice to hear from you hope all is well - we are fine coming out to Calif. i September maybe we can see you somewhere we will not be driving however will be in San Francisco as some point... take care

Hugs

 

Frank & Mike in Toronto

 

From: "rhio

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27 

 

You girls are just having waaaaay too much fun!  Thanks for the update, with photos yet!!!  Aren't we the high-tech sluts!  We anxiously await the next installment!  Behave yourselves at those seedy truckerstops!

Rhio & Bruce

 

From: Diane

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27 

 

Tom, et al,

 

We were so delighted to get your first email correspondence from the road. Keep 'em coming. We, however, were disappointed to note that there was not one mention of Porterville (Buttonwillow doesn't count!). Happy trails to all.

 

Dianne and Elaine

 

From: Don

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27

 

4/28

Hi Tom:

 

It's great to hear you are off on another adventure.  Springtime in America.  I know you'll have a good time.

 

Unfortunately, I haven't done much traveling here in China....at least not as much as most do when they take a vacation here.  We have a one-week vacation next week.  Perhaps, my friend Zhao and I will take a short trip for a night or two out of Chengdu.  Zhao has only two days off where I have the full week of "Labor Day" vacation.

 

As of now it looks like I'll be back for another year at the Chengdu University of Technology in the Fall.  I hope you are well and enjoying your retirement.

 

...and the trip, too,

don

 

From: JPRD

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27

 

Columbus, Ohio?  A lovely place, I'm sure, but what is the specific attraction at this time?

 

I'm leaving myself Sunday, 5/2.  Dick Peters and I will spend five weeks in France and Northern Italy. I come home on 6/6, and he then goes to Copenhagen and other Scandinavian capitals.  Billy and Tom will be in Paris when we arrive (they left today) and  on 5/4 we will celebrate Billy's 80th birthday with dinner at Taillevent, Billy's favorite Parisian restaurant.  Dick and I fly  toToulouse the next day, pick up a car and travel eastward.  Back in Paris on  5/31.  Tom is staying only a couple of weeks, I believe; Billy is due to return on  6/2, but he may try to extend.

 

Actually, this is a pretty good time to be traveling in the midwest.

 

xxoo Dick

 

 

 

From: Aileen

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27

 

Hello to T, T and C -

This is way cool.  Have a great trip.  What about Carl's plumbing problem.  Did it get fixed and if so how.

 

Aileen

 

 

 

 

Tues. Apr. 27, 2004 - Day 2 -  Las Vegas

 

Today was spent walking North on the Strip.  We went into some of the newer casinos including New York, New York, Monte Carlo, Belagio, Caesar's Palace, Treasure Island, Mirage, The Venetian, Paris - Las Vegas and the Aladdin.  My favorites was the Venetian ...  with canals and gondolas.  Inside the ceilings are painted with blue sky and white clouds and it really feels like you are on some small piazza in Venice.


We headed back so we could get ready to go see the show "Blue Men Group" ... a quirky, performance art show ... very avant-garde.  Three expressionless guys with all blue heads play percussion instruments.  At the end a river of paper flows from the back of the audience, over us and down to the front.  Well, you had to be there!

  

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27

From: Carol

 

Looks just like Venice.

 

From: jeh

Subject: RE: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27 

 

All,

Thanks for the news - seemed like you are having a great time!

I would love to have experienced the Venetian!

Have a great trip.

J

 

 

From: Phil

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27

 

Tom

 

we remember you on the plaza in Venice.  how ironic you are there again, in Vegas!have a nice, safe trip back east!

 

phil and ed

 

 

From: "Rep"

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27 

 

Hi, Tom!  I love reading your travel letters!  We went to Las Vegas last year (of course that is where we spent 8 weeks when Don was in the hospital, so it is pretty familiar to me!) Anyway, we went back last spring--sort of "get back on the horse" philosophy, and we had a good time, and Don got to enjoy all of the things that he missed while he was hospitalized!  My favorite also is the Venetian.  Did you see the Hermitage art exhibit? 

 

We also drove out to Red Rock Canyon and watched the rock climbers struggling to keep alive (or so it seemed!) Don is currently remodelling a house about 40 minutes south of Kona on the Big Island, and I am still working at the Post Office, but now am down to about a year and a half until retirement! Hope to see you at some of the gatherings at Smyrna—

 

Love, Cousin Judy

 

From: "rhio"

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27 

 

More news and more great photos....we love it! 

Who is Mark?

Who are the folks in the gondola?  Do the blue men have blue genitals?  Inquiring minds want to know.  Sounds like the fun never stops with you merry madcaps....wish we were

there.

love,

rhio & bruce

 

 

From: Ladiede

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27

 

 Helloooooo Tom,

 

 So glad to hear from you, I just love your emails.  I think you should write a book, I would read it!  I hope you won some money and had a great time.  Saw your pictures, just love my friend Randy!  Really enjoy your emails

 

...Dianne

 

 

From: Ron

Subject: Re: Las Vegas 4/26-4/27

 

Hi Guys,

 

Thanks for keeping me posted on your exploits. Look forward to meeting the two Toms and seeing you all in Ohio.

Don't forget the Drop Zone and Roller Coaster on top of the Stratasphere!  My friend Charlie arrived late Tuesday nite from SF. He and I have both been busy becoming familiar with South Florida. We spent this morning at Dania beach and this afternoon exploring South Beach.  Tomorrow morning we leave for our drive back to Ohio. We plan to stop and visit Datona Beach, Savannah, Chattanooga, and Nashville on our way.

 

Enjoy your travels and drive safely.

 

Love,

Ron

 

Day 3 ­ Las Vegas to Sedona

470 Miles

9.5 hours

 

We got up early-ish and ate breakfast at Carrow’s next to our hotel.  On the road we headed south towards the Hoover Dam and Kingman, Arizona.  The dam is in a narrow gorge and didn't look as large as I expected.  We stopped long enough to take a couple of pictures and then drove on.

 

At Williams we drove north to the south entrance to the Grand Canyon.  We ate lunch at Bright Angel Hotel and walked along the rim of the canyon.  Strong, gusty winds kept us away from the edge.  The dust that was raised obscured some of the distance views.

 

At Flagstaff we exited the freeway and headed towards Sedona and the home of Ken and Jackie (Carl taught with Jackie).  We all went out for dinner at the nearby Desert Flour Restaurant.  Carl stayed at Ken and Jackie’s and TomO and I checked into a unit at K&J’s timeshare.

 

 

 

From: "Joel"

Subject: RE: Las Vegas to Sedona (04/29/04) 

 

Did you mean to send the Las Vegas picture a second time?  Enjoy all the

news.  Joel

(I sent the wrong picture … Ed)

 

 

From: "Barbara"

Subject: RE: Las Vegas to Sedona (04/29/04) 

 

 Enjoy the hi-lights, but what's with the same picture twice?  We expected to see a bit of the Grand Canyon...........I think I can hear the tune now!!  :o)

 

 My friend, Harriet Taylor, arrived yesterday from San Diego and is staying till Mon.  She came over last night and I fried up some relatively fresh razor clams.  We went digging last week and when we got home I breaded a few for Bj and I to eat, so went ahead and breaded enough for last night....just put them in the freezer - worked pretty slick.

  

 Putting Port Cassoulet and ribs in the oven before I leave tomorrow, to slow bake and have here after everything's done and family and close friends can come back here to unwind.

 

 Sounds like you're having a fun trip.  Enjoy the pics!!

 

 Love ya, Lindaqqq

 

 

 

From: "jeh"

Subject: RE: Las Vegas to Sedona (04/29/04) 

 

Good to hear you made good timing.  Charles and mother are leaving AZ today. Meanwhile, I heard of the gusty wind condition in AZ.  The same was happening here in OAK on Thurs morning.  The hot weather has cooled off - nice in the early AM and evening hours.

 

 EBRAIN continues to be hectic as ever - Cooper was backed up for at least 2 hrs - patients were getting quite agitated.  Glad I am in the research end of the business so I do not face irate patients.

 

 Allergan continues to be ridiculous with their demand for additional coordinator time.  I told their project manager that they can't demand more of my time considering they are delinquent with payment (> 45 days).  Their response:  'Oh, payment is made by the finance department, not by clinical affairs!'  My response: 'So.... No payment, no service.'  Dr. Cooper laughed when I told her of my response - of-course she would agree to anything I say/do, as long as the money keeps rolling in.

 

 Have a great trip to NM and TX. J   

 

 

Subject: RE: Las Vegas to Sedona (04/29/04)

From: "Kirk"

 

Hey, Tom ... sounds like you guys are having a blast.

 

By the way, Mike's mom now can't travel so he needs a roommate for the cruise!  :)

 

From: "Mary"

Subject: Re: Oops, Wrong Picture - Las Vegas to Sedona (04/29/04) 

 

HI boys,

    What a lovely treat to see your trip while you're in the midst of it - I have to admit I'm enjoying the pictures of the three of you the most - looks like you're having fun.  Keep the pictures coming - I feel like I'm able to see you.     Love,

    Mary

 

From: Kim

Subject: Decapitation at Hoover Dam

 

 Dear Tom--

 

 Thanks for the pictures of your Arizona trip.  Sorry you were decapitated by the photo-taking tourist at Hoover Dam.

 

 Richard, your Mom and I went to dinner Wednesday night at the Harris House in Molalla.  Roger has been helping the inn-keeper and restauranteer with her business.  We had a nice meal there.

 

 We are planning a trip to Prince Rupert and Prince George, British Columbia, perhaps for June.  And we are talking about making another venture Westward to Eastern Oregon in June.

 

Hope all is well, Best wishes, Kim

 

 

Subject: Re: Oops, Wrong Picture - Las Vegas to Sedona (04/29/04)

From: Carol

 

I did laugh when I saw the others. I thought maybe you didn't get a chance to download the new ones. How silly of me.

 

From: David

Subject: Re: Las Vegas to Sedona (04/29/04)

 

Hi Guys!

 

Thanks for the updates of your travels.  It sounds like you are having a very fulfilling journey. We can't wait for your arrival in Minnesota!  Are you still arriving on the 16th of May?

 

Regards to all.

 

David and Rolf

 

Day 4 ­ Sedona

 

High winds, cloudy  morning, sprinkles

 

The day was planned the night before:  (1) Drive to Jerome (2) Lunch at Enchantment and (3) Take jeep tour.

 

Jerome is a historic mining town about 25 miles west of Sedona, up in the foothills.  The morning was very cool and rain was threatening, so we didn’t spend much time outside.  (Nor much time in Jerome.)  Jerome is now a charming tourist destination.

 

On out way back to downtown Sedona, we stopped at the Enchantment resort for lunch.  Gigantic glass walls of the dining room open up to massive rock formations nearby.  TomO and I had vegetable chili in acorn squash nestled in rice.  Carl ate penne pasta with vegetables.

 

Our jeep tour was called “Soldier Pass Trail” because we drove over trails used in the Apache campaign of the 1870s.  There were a lot of boulders in the middle of this trail!  We got out at the Apache Seven Pools and at the Devil’s Kitchen (a massive sink hole).

  

From: "rhio"

Subject: Re: Sedona, Sedona 

 

YeeHaw!  Ride 'em. cowboys!!!

 

So...which won:  the chili or the pasta (neither prepared in the Devil's kitchen, I hope?) The formations look suspiciously phallic....is that a doctored photo??

r&b

 

 

From: "Joel"

Subject: RE: Sedona, Sedona 

 

 I am just looking at the picture you sent.  Picture Jerome when your dad drove through there in the motor home and I had the boys taking showers in the back getting ready for bed.  Good  memories.  We have just gotten back from the church.  Joel put the flag up and I put flowers on your dad's, Joe's and my parents graves. 

 

Today is the service for Rosa and Richard has already been here to pick flowers as he is in charge of that. Later today I have to finish   up getting ready for the birthday dinner for Robert tomorrow.  Ethel wanted a lunch for everyone after church.  Auntie Barbara is coming early to help me and also Helen Odell and Mary Ruth Liechty. 

 

It is good when there are a few people who know what they are doing.   Roger had three rooms taken last night for those coming to the service today.  (Sue and her husband and Brad)  Must keep going! -Elaine- Philip was here early-bringing   back the tractor.  He is taking the 4 children to a Beaver game today.  Then tonight is their big church auction and the Heyerly girls will come to stay with the children.

 

 

From: Kim

Subject: Sedona, Jerome

 

Dear Tom--

 

Sounds like you and the crew are having a nice time in Arizona.  Richard and I drove through Jerome late one night, traveling from Prescott,but did not stop.  We made a note to return for a longer visit sometime.  I am working multiple sessions of "Miss Siagon."  Everyone wonders when "Miss Baghdad" will be made.

 

Keep on having fun, Best wishes, Kim

 

 

From: Diane

Subject: Re: Sedona, Sedona 

 

Your trip seems to be going really well and the photos are wonderful. You are paving the way for Elaine and me this summer. We can hardly wait! Thanks for the communication. Are you receiving my replies?

 

Dianne

 

 

From: Tom

Subject: Fw: Sedona, Sedona 

 

Tom,

 

Add My brother, Bob to your list.  

 

Tom

 

 

From: "Randy"

Subject: RE: Sedona Las Vegas 

 

 Well it sounds like you are having a great time.  The pictures are really nice too.

 

 Today we went to the performing arts center in Santa Anna to see the play "Urinetown".  Despite the odd name and subject matter, it was very entertaining and well done.  The singers all had excellent voices and a lot of talent.  It went from 2 till 4:40 with a 15 minute intermission.  If someone had told me the show was that long, I would probably not have liked the idea of sitting so long, but it went by quickly so I think that is the mark of a good show.

 

 We had lunch in Huntington Beach at a Peruvian restaurant so we could 'practice' for our trip.  It was very good food.  I hope the food on our trip is close to that.

 

 We left home this a.m. at 10:30 and did not get back here till 7:30 so was a long time away.  The traffic going over and back was not terrible, yet we did get into many slow areas.  Guess that is just the way LA is.

 

 It was about 90 in Santa Anna so I can only guess how warm it was here.  The house is nice and cool although the thermometer says it is about 82 outside right now.

 

 Last night we swam in the pool and the water was about 95 which is about perfect.  Tonight we aren't swimming only because it was about dark when we got here and neither of us really wants to get wet.  Tomorrow we are going to go look at some outdoor chairs at a store where Bob saw some nice ones on the internet.

 

 After that we are coming back here to swim for most of the day.  The forecast is for the temps to be over 100.

 

 Thursday R&R picked us up and took us to the Mission Inn for dinner to celebrate Bob's birthday.  It was really sweet of them.  There is a Mexican restaurant there with a huge courtyard outside.  It was a little chilly but they had those big heaters going all over the place.  We had a really nice time.  It was fun going out on Thursday like that because it made today seem like Sunday.  It is nice to keep realizing that it is only Saturday and we still have tomorrow for fun.

 

 Renato went up to visit David, leaving last night.  He comes back tomorrow night.  I think we are going over to his house to make sure his new flowers get water.  I still have not fixed the sprinkler problem he has so it has to be turned on manually.  I tried to make arrangements to fix it last weekend but our schedules didn't link up.   Ruben went to his mothers this morning and comes back Monday night.

 

 Well I should go now.  Please tell everyone Bob and I said hello and be careful on your journey!

 

 Keep the messages and pictures coming we enjoy them!

 

 Love,

 

 Randy and Bob

 

 

 

Sedona to Santa Fe

500 miles

 

On Friday morning we left Sedona, Arizona to drive to Santa Fe, New Mexico.  We drove steadily until we got to the Petrified Forest and the Painted Desert where we stopped briefly. 

 

In Albuquerque, we drove through Old Town to Center Street, the old Route 66.  It was time to turn North towards Santa Fe.  Just before we got there, we stopped for gas at the San Felipe Reservation where be bought gas for $1.639/gallon!  There were lots of cars there.  Attendants directed you to a line of cars and you took your turn to pump gas.

 

When we pulled into Marcus and Bae's driveway, Marcus was just finishing his evening jog.  After a short rest we went out to dinner at Kasa Soba, a favorite Japanese restaurant.

 

Today we spent the day touristing in downtown Santa Fe ... the Plaza and Canyon Road art galleries, lunching at a restaurant called Santaca-fe.  It was a little too cool to eat outside.  It got warmer later in the day.

 

Later ... TomD, TomO and Carl

  

 

From: "Nancy"

Subject: Re: Santa Fe, New Mexico 

 

Dear Tom,

 

Loving the pictures and the trip diary, as always!  :-)

 

*hugs*

 

Nancy

 

From: "Joel"

Subject: RE: Santa Fe, New Mexico 

 

Just turned off the sweet and sour sauce and came downstairs.  I had hoped you would send a picture from Santa Fe-weather looks good.  I thought I heard a forecast for snow about one or two days ago! -E-

 

Subject: Re: Santa Fe, New Mexico

From: Carol

 

I could have done with out the dead cows, but I enjoy the pictures. You are definitely moving along.

 

C

 

From: Ken

Subject: Re: Santa Fe, New Mexico

 

Hi Carl and Toms,

 

I'm getting more jealous by the day. It looks and sounds like you're having far too much fun.

 

KB, one of the fab five

 

From: Ron

Subject: Re: Santa Fe, New Mexico 

 

Hi Guys,

 

Well Charlie and I never made it to Datona Beach. It was raining when we arrived in Orlando at rush hour. Visited briefly with my friend Charlie and stopped by his store "Cheap Charlies" to look at his books. Decided to have a beer at the Parliment House instead of waiting in traffic. The rest is history.....  We are in Savannah now. It is filled with history. They are having a sea food festival this weekend.

We changed our minds and will be staying in Atlanta tomorrow instead of Chatanooga.

 

Have fun and drive carefully!!!

 

Love,

 

Ron

 

From: "Stafford"

Subject: your trip and my computer 

 

Hi Tom.  I been enjoying your e-cards.  Looks like you guys are having a great time.  The pics are wonderful.  Its Sunday and I have most of the day off - gave Chloe her Advantage this morning - I think it is going to be a warm one.

 

I want to see if we can set up a time that might work for you to talk a bout my computer.  I've not been in touch because, even though you offered, I did not want to take up yr time.  So.....I spent a bunch of time with Mike Slack from upstairs yesterday and it was really stupid of me,  He kind of put me aside and sat down and did not really listen to me and in three fairly frustrating hours we go my email files over to the new computer but it won't really stay on line.  I think it does not know it is supposed to be wireless and complains of a loose connection.  So now I am back sending and receiving from my old computer.  Also we have done nothing about sending my d drive files over.  Boy, you have me spoiled.  If I didn't before, which I did, I really appreciate your pedagogic style.  It is so much better when I sit and do myself with some (heavy) coaching.

 

Anyway let me know if there is a time.  Or, for that matter, if you have had 2nd thoughts about doing this while on the road.  If so, no sweat, I can muddle through with Mike.

 

Best to /Carl and Tim.  xo S

 

 

From: "Jon"

Subject: RE: Sedona Las Vegas 

 

 Remind me - I need to fire up my PSION.  Wonder if I could communicate with your PDA across the room.

 

I used to provide Ralf, a German colleague, instructions from across the OR suite.  The latter was terrific as we needed to maintain distance from the 'sterile barrier' while too many equipment prevented us from traipsing around the OR.  Ralf had a PSION and would frequently send me caricatures of MDs or nurses, which he drew on the screen.

 

 Chas is in Austin. Hi to all.

J

 

 

From: "Terry"

Subject: to Carl, et al 

 

 wow...Carl!  really do appreciate the wonderful photos and commentary on the trip....thanks for including me on the mailing...hope the weather was good in Santa Fe....spoke with family there today and hear it has been raw, windy, cold  a lot this spring.....by now you are on the way down into Texas I think....hope the Marfa experience works well...I hear only good things, but was never there....look forward to the next installment....

 

aloha, Terry

 

From: "Diane"

Subject: Re: Santa Fe, New Mexico 

 

HI Tom,

Sounds like fun! There was a strange truck parked overnight in you're driveway. Blue pick-up full of gardening tools. Any idea who? All else is well. Diane  -

 

 

 

 

From: Henry

Subject: Re: Made it to Marfa (Monday, 5/3)

 

Dear Tom D. : Just returned from a day in beautiful Flatonia, Texas and are about to go out for dinner. If you pick this up by 7:30 or so , please call us at 512-241-1258 and maybe we can get together. There is no inexpensive place to stay in Austin so your best bet there would be to contact a national chain of your choice as they are all represented here. Henry B.

 

From: "Diane"

Subject: Re: Santa Fe, New Mexico 

 

OK, all is well. I'll look out for the package though not here yet. Have fun, be safe. Diane

 

 

May 3, 2004
Santa Fe - Marfa, Texas
543 miles

 

We'd originally thought we'd stay around White Sands but we changed our minds after a friend suggested we try Marfa, Texas … which is half way to Austin from Santa Fe.  We stopped in Las Cruces, NM for lunch.
 
This motto of this town (population 2,400) is "Marfa is the Way the West Was".  It’s most famous for being the location for the movie Giant.  We stayed at the Riata Motel and last night ate at Jett's Restaurant.  Jett's Restaurant in the Hotel Paisano, a historic building designed by architect Henry Trost and built in 1930.
 
Artist Donald Judd came here in the  70's.  He lived in Marfa and created minimalist sculptures until his death in the mid-1990s.
 
For more than a century, mysterious lights have been observed east of Marfa.  Carl and TomO drove out in search of them after dark.  Whether they actually saw anything is a mystery.

  

From: "Terry"

Subject: Re: Marfa, TX (5/3/2004) 

 

if you guys have a chance, get up to Fredericksburg...the old German settlement....Carl, it's where Chester Nimitz was born and has lots of memorabilia I hear...some nice architecture, German food...have not been there in 40+ years, but hear it's fun...aloha and bon voyage...appreciate the call, Carl...hope you guys are having fun.....aloha, Terry

 

From: Phil

Subject: Re: Marfa, TX (5/3/2004)

 

I had never heard of Marfa--it looks cool.  i like the Hotel Paisano!  any james dean lookalikes?

 

 

From: "Jon"

Subject: RE: Marfa, TX (5/3/2004) 

 

It appears that you guys are making good time?  Not sure where Marfa, TX is without looking at the map – but when you get to Austin tonight, please let Charlie know that I am aware he is returning home at ~ 6:30 PM on Thursday.

 

May 6 is going to be a crazy clinic day for me and my last patient is due at 5 PM.  This will be an exit visit and takes 1 hour to complete.  I had mentioned the latter to Charles.  I will do my best to pick him up BUT, if he arrives at OAK and does not see me at baggage claim, please ask him to take a cab home.

 

Thanks.

 

 

 

From: Ron

Subject: Re: Marfa, TX (5/3/2004)

 

 

Hi Guys,

 

Well Charlie and I finally arrived back in Ohio. It's amazing how overgrown everything gets when you are away for over a month.

 

We both loved Savannah. We went to a fun musical review at the oldest (continually operating) theatre in the country. Then we joined the locals for an afternoon meal at a nearby pub. Atlanta was lots of fun (stayed out too late).

 

Went to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville and visited the Belle Meade Plantation.  As Judy would say "There's no place like home"

 

 

Have fun and drive safely! Look forward to seeing you all soon!!!

 

Love,

 

Ron

 

May 4-5, 2004,

Austin, TX

 

We drove from Marfa through El Paso and on to San Antonio where we stopped to see the Alamo and River Walk.  Then we rushed on to Austin.

 

 

Our stay in Austin was too short.  We arrived on Tuesday evening and checked into a Red Roof Hotel, about 4 miles south of the city center.  We drove into the old downtown area for lunch (honkey-tonk, as Henry, Charlie’s brother called it).  And we ate Tex-Mex dinner at the Iron Cactus restaurant about 1 block from the historic Driscoll Hotel.

 

The next day we ate breakfast in the student union at the U of T campus before heading over to the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum.  We watched a multimedia show (Spirit of Texas) where the floor rumbled during an earthquake, puffs of air hit your neck during the invasion of locusts and the bottom of your seat bumped when it was raining rattlesnakes and water misted on us during the rainstorms.  (You had to be there!)  We also learned more about the history of Texas before watching the IMAX show … Eyes Over Texas. 

 

We were not able to connect with Oakland friend Charlie who was in Austin visiting his brother.  However he recommended we see the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, about 10 miles south of town.  We toured the grounds and ate lunch there. 

 

From: Phil

Subject: Re: Austin TX

 

it's about now that cross country trips by auto can seem like taking forever!  ergo shortcuts!  ;)   once coming west on I 40 i skipped seeing Grand Canyon, too far off my shortest route to CA!  lol   stupid me.

 

 

From: Ed

Subject: Re: San Antonio & Austin, TX 

 

Thanks for the updates and info... will help if I ever make the same trip(s). Talked to Jackie and she loved having all of you visit. Carl, give me a call when you get back.

    Ed

 

 

May 6, 2004

Austin ­ Little Rock, AR

 

We are deviating from our original itinerary a little by heading for Little Rock (instead of Shreveport).  It’s a little more direct (to Nashville and Columbus) and will give us a little more time in those cities.

 

We decided to drive out of Austin for breakfast which wasn't as easy as we thought.  We got off of I-35 and drove for some miles before we found the Monument Café in Georgetown, TX.  Our omelets came with biscuits and white gravy and I finally got to see this part of southern cuisine that Randy had told me about years ago.

 

This was a long day of driving.  We broke it up with lunch at Mount Pleasant at Western Sizzlin' Restaurant the home of, Flamekist Beef.  Over the state line in Arkansas, we stopped at Hope and toured the first home of President Clinton and the museum at the Hope train station.

 

 

 

On the road to Memphis, TN

 

We didn't have time to take the tour at Clinton's birthplace.  Instead, a volunteer took us around and showed us pictures and memorabilia.  On an easel we saw the plan for the Clinton Library in Little Rock (which we saw from a distance later on ... as we flew by).

 

After we check in at our hotel in Memphis, we drove downtown to Beale Street which is blocked off from car traffic.  It was very warm at night.  We listened to Jazz music as we walked down the street to ribs joint called, Blues City Cafe.   Out on the street, we saw guys running down the street before diving into cartwheels and fantastic back flips


The next day, we stopped at the Sun Records, the recording study where Elvis (and many others) got their start.  Before leaving town we drove over to Graceland.  We didn't have time for the tour, but we could see Elvis' home in the distance and two of his Lisa Marie Jets.

 

 

 

May 7, Nashville, TN via Cincinnati, OH

 

We ordered tickets to see the Friday night show at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.  The complex (shopping center, hotels and theaters) were a couple of blocks from our hotel.  We drove over early and walked around the shopping center before entering the theater.  There were 5 - 30 minute shows, each with a sponsor.  The shows are broadcast on the radio, so there is an announcer who reads the commercials.  The music was varied and entertaining.

 

The Gaylord Opryland Hotel includes a convention center and is located next door.  The best feature is a huge enclosed, glass roof garden with ponds, fountains, boat rides, bridges, etc.  We ate at a food court in this space.

 

Before leaving town the next day, we drove downtown and saw the restored old buildings and facades. before driving north and east, through Kentucky to reach Athens, OH,.  The countryside is beautiful with rolling, green hills and tree-lined roadways.  In some places, red (poppies) and yellow wildflowers were planted in the area between the freeways.

 

In Cincinnati, we drove downtown and parked near Fountain Square where we took pictures, went to an ATM and ate lunch.  A block further was the newly completed Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art building.  The architect (a woman-person of Iranian descent) won the Pulitzer prize for its design.

 

 

From: "rhio"

Subject: Re: Nashville, TN via Cincinnati, OH 

 

Forget the Center for Contemporary Art.....I wanna go to the Waffle House!!!!!

 

(tell Carl all those waffles are starting to show) wish we were there...

Rhio&Bruce

 

 

From: "Mary"

Subject: Re: Nashville, TN via Cincinnati, OH 

 

Wow - three events in one day.  Were you really eating waffles at the Waffle House?  Couldn't tell but hoped that was the case.  What a wonderful adventure so far!  It's lovely here right now but would gladly trade it for the fun you three seem to be having.

 

    XOXO

    Mary

 

 

From: "Cleo and Doug"

Subject: Tom's Journey 

 

Tom,

 

    If you insist on taking to the road, it won't be long now before we all become attuned to some of the historical tidbits of our nation.  Goodness knows we can all use such lessons.  Your email "journal" is a delight to read -- complete with marvelous photos. When this latest escapade of yours is completed, will you take to the air to return home, or continue your travel by road with the intention of covering all the states?  I'm not sure I could handle so much road travel day after day, but then Doug and I are not spring chickens any longer.

 

    Take care -- and enjoy!!  Cleo

 

 

 

May 8-9, Athens, OH

We arrived in Athens, Ohio where Karen and Jack live.  Jack is an obstetrician there and is married to Karen, a former student of Carl's.  They have 2 sons Chris and Curt.  We stayed overnight in their huge house which is a couple of miles outside of town.

 

Karen had arranged for us to see a local theatrical production of "Dearly Departed" a black comedy.  The theater was a restored opera house in nearby Nelsonville.  The play was a cross between "Mamma's Family" , "Greater Tuna" and "Sordid Lives".

 

The next morning we drove downtown Athens and around the campus of Ohio University.  The big campus is nicely intertwined with the town.  Before we left, we stopped by the assisted living facility and met both Karen and Jack's mothers who live there.

 

 

From: "philip"

Subject: RE: Athens, OH 

 

Hello to Tom, TomO and Carl,

        Martin and I have enjoyed reading your diary as you travel  through the country.  Keep it coming. 

Philip

 

May 9-10 Columbus, Ohio

 

We arrived in Columbus in the afternoon.  We're staying with Ron who lives in Blacklick, a rural-like community, east of town.  His house is at the end a narrow lane where the houses are on very large lots (acres).  Ron was outside weeding and other chores around the house because he just got back from a trip to Florida with stops in Savannah, Atlanta and other southern cities.

 

After resting up we drove downtown for a little sightseeing.  At this point, cities are starting to blur and I'm not totally sure what I saw.  The next day we drove to the Ohio State University campus and walked around ending up with coffee in the student union.   
We ate lunch at Easton, a shopping mall near Ron's.  Carl looked at digital cameras and printers and I bought an electronic device that will allow us to play out tape player and broadcast it on a radio FM channel so we can hear our books on tape.

 

 

From: Don

Subject: Re: Columbus, Ohio

 

 5/13 Hi Tom: I'm enjoying reading about your travels.  I don't suppose you are going through southern Illinois are you.  Remember Ray Harmon who joined us on our first trip to Bali.  He lives in Staunton.  If you pass through that way, you might give him a call.  It is rather rare that Westerns like ourselves travel the overland trip East.  Have a safe trip and keep sending those pictures.

 

don

 

 

May 11, 2004 Columbus, Indiana

 

This day we drove from Columbus, Ohio to the "other" Columbus:  in Indiana.  This city of 35,000 is around 50 miles south of Indianapolis.  It is home of Cummins, Inc.  In the 1930s, when it the town was growing and the First Christian Church outgrew their space, they hired an architect Eliel Saarinen.  This began a tradition of hiring international designers ... to build the Cummins headquarters, school buildings and churches.  Cummins has a program to pay for these services (it isn't clear if it just for school buildings or more than that)

 

We walked around a cluster of these buildings near the visitors center.  Saw the county court house with a moving veterans memorial.  Drove further along and saw more uniquely designed buildings before heading north to Indianapolis.

 

 

 

May 11, 2004 Indianapolis, Indiana

 

Checked in a drove downtown looking for a place to eat.  The sun was going down.  A huge veterans memorial statue met us as we arrived at the heart of the city.  While trying to find parking, we drove past the state capitol building.

 

Nearby was Circle Center, a large structure suspended one story up above an intersection and connected all 4 street corners.  We ate bad food at a food court here.

 

 

May 12  Chicago

5,327 miles

 

We were able to check in early to our hotel in Willowbrook, 20 miles SW of Chicago.  This allowed us to continue on into Chicago and go to the Museum of Science and Industry, near Hyde Park and the University of Chicago.  I'd never been there before.  I especially enjoyed the "OminMax" ... a little better than a regular IMax ... the screen is curved and looks more 3-dimensional.  We saw the story of Lewis and Clark.  A tour through a coal mine was another attraction at this museum.

 

In this area we saw the Robie House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.  Four other FLW houses were nearby and we drove by them.

 

Carl suggested that we see the famous Second City improv group and we were able to book tickets for that.  We drove to that area, parked and found an Italian restaurant called Topo Gigio.  I had homemade pasta.
Second City's show was very funny.  The large part is scripted and funny.  Afterwards the cast returns to the stage for improvisational sketches.

 

 

From: "Roger"

Subject: Seeing Arlyn on Sunday? 

 

Hi All,

 

Arlyn asked if she will be seeing the boys on Sunday?  Give her a call. Phil Lulewicz, Spring Green WI.  Their place is across from the House on the Rock tourist haven.  There is a gift shop on the road and their home is directly behind, huge Victorian, anyway you better stop and say ‘hi’.

 

R

 

 

May 13  Chicago

 

We drove downtown and parked underground on Michigan Avenue near the Art Institute.  A new park, called Millennium Park is nearing completing.  The focal point is a huge, twisted metal band stand and concert area.

 

We decided to walk north on Wasbash, across the Chicago River to the Miracle Mile then turn towards the lake.  It rained off and on along the way and we were glad we decided to carry our umbrellas.  On our way we bought 1/2 tickets to see "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change". We walked along the shore of Lake Michigan on our way back, stopping at Naval Pier.  I'd never been there before.  Lots of people, shops, restaurants, some rides, etc.  Like Fisherman's Wharf except much larger.

 

Before seeing the musical/comedy, we ate dinner at the nearby Hacienda Mexican Restaurant.  They play was funny and entertaining and a little predictable.

 

 

From: Aileen

Subject: Aileen new e-mail 

 

Hi Tom-

 

I've enjoyed the travel log.  I have just switched to high speed and here is my new address.

 

Have fun and say hi to Carl.

 

Aileen

 

 

From: "rhio"

Subject: Re: Chicago - 2 

 

And the fun just never stops. I just got back from Annapolis today...flew over you in the mid-west...around noon.....didn't you see me waving??? Wow!  Some heat wave back there.  3 more weeks of toil in the salt mines for me.....then we, too, will be footloose & fancy free. Rhio&Bruce

 

 

May 14, 2004 Madison, WI

 

It was raining steadily as we got up early and drove to the Oakpark suburb of Chicago.  This is where Frank Lloyd Wright lived for 30 or so years.    Consequently, there are a number of  houses he designed in this neighborhood. 

 

We took the tour of his home and studio where he designed 25% of his work.  It is a very unique structure ... as if he tried out his ideas ...  Compress and Release and Path of Discovery were 2 techniques he used to make spaces more interesting.

 

 

We left Chicago for the drive to Madison through Rockford.  The vistas were pretty flat and green.
In Madison we check in and drove downtown.  The capitol building occupies a prominent site and from it, there is a straight shot down to a new convention center called Manona Terrace (that's the name of the lake on 2 sides of the city).  This structure was designed by FLW and completed recently.

 

 

From: Phil

Subject: Re: Oakpark to Madison 

 

Hi Tom,

love all your travel cards and what a great trip you guys are on.  and a great time of year to go back east--before summer heat!

 

you just passed through my old stomping grounds.  i grew up in oak park, gave tours at wright's home and studio, hung out in chicago, went to U of Wis in Madison.  your cards brought back a lot of memories.

 

last sunday we had another project open house here at in SF and Charles and Jon came over for it.

 

Best,

 

Phil and Ed

 

 

 

 

Saturday-Sunday May 17, 2004

Shafer, MN

5,855 miles driven so far

 

We arrived at Rolf and David's on Sunday evening.  They live in the community of Safer which is about 40 miles NE of Minneapolis.  They moved into Rolf's family farm house about 5 years ago and have completely renovated it into a architectural home you might find in Blackhawk, for example.  The are about a mile from the main road.  We saw wood peckers, finches, cardinals eating at the bird feeders.  Later on we saw wild turkeys and a racoon.


On Sunday we were treated to pancakes smothered in maple syrup which came from their forest of sugar maple trees.  Rolf drove us around this rural area.  Their property is bounded on one side by St. Croix River and the town of Osceola, WI is on the other side.  We also saw francia, Scandia, Chisago County and Stillwater and the planned community of Jackson Meadows.

 

 

From: elizabeth

Subject: Re: Minneapolis (Shafer)

 

 Tom

 

 I hope that you are having a great trip.  Thank you so much for keeping us all up to date of your adventure.  As we sit at our desks we can all day dream that we are traveling around the country with you.  How did you like Stillwater, MN?  My good friend from U of O is from there and Ben and I went back for her wedding two years ago.  It is a cute little town.  The St. Croix river is so pretty, with lots of green trees.  For their rehearsal dinner we took a dinner cruise down the river it was beautiful.

 

 Some friends and I are going to the beach house this weekend for a much needed relaxing get away as work has been stressful for all. I am hoping against odds for good weather.

 

 Anyways I am glad you are having fun, probably tired with all of the driving.  I really look forward to our trip.  Next time we meet we'll be deep in the heart of Texas.

 

 Love Beth

 

 

From: "Delores"

Subject: Re: Minneapolis (Shafer) 

 

Hi Tom,

 

Thanks for the ride.   This is the way I like to travel after all the miles I've put on in my  life.  Just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying your trip.  Keep them coming.  I'm not a bit tired from all this traveling and the price is right.  LUV YA   Delores

 

 

 

Monday,

May 7, 2004  

St. Paul, MN    

 

Today Rolf took us to St. Paul.  Two prominent building are the state capitol and the St. Paul's Catholic Cathedral.  We walked around the rotunda of the capitol and quickly "joined" a tour group to climb the stairs to a viewing area near the dome.

 

Downtown, we found the Fitzgerald theater where Garrison Keillor often performs Prairie Home Companion.  Rolf boldy entered the stage door and true to its name, we were standing on the stage facing the "audience" (seating which would hold about 1,100 people)

 

Next we drove past the huge Minneapolis Airport terminals and on to the Mall of America.  This shopping center is world famous and gigantic.  In the center is a covered amusement park called "Camp Snoopy".  It was getting late and we couldn't do justice to this place ... we looked at watches and alpaca sweaters (all for $39.00 each!)

 

That night we ate dinner at Adventures Restaurant in Osceola, WI.  David gets up early to get to his nearby teaching job.  Rolf continues to work on the house (specifically landscaping), that is, when he's not working on other people's design and building projects.  They've been taking such good care of us, we don't want to leave!

 

 

 

Wednesday, May 19, 2004

Shafer, MN to Wall, SD

 

This was a long driving day for us.  Rolf saw us off with 3 bottles of estate bottled "Cardelon" Pure Maple Syrup (a brand name formed from their last names).  We drove through Minneapolis then headed south and west and across the South Dakota state line.

 

We heard tornado alerts in this neck of the woods and drove through rain and windy storms.

 

At Mitchell, SD we stopped to see the "Corn Palace".  This is a auditorium building and museum whose exterior is decorated each fall with corn and grain and grasses.  This year's theme was "Lewis and Clark".  We ate sandwiches at a nearby deli and went next door where two ladies serve ice cream during the summer and use chain saws to carve bears out of wood in the winter.

 

The Time zone changed to Mountain Time in the middle of SD and we bought ethanol gas (about 20 cents less).


We stayed in Wall, SD ... that drug store that has signs and bumper stickers all over the world.  I guess I haven't been to those places because I had never heard of it before this trip.

 

 

From: John

Subject: Re: Minnesota to  South Dakota 

 

Well, boyz, I've been enjoying your merry and enviable adventures for weeks, but the mention of Wall Drugs pushed me over the edge.

 

I've never been there either, but having had the good fortune to visit such Midwest garden spots as Swantner KS and Hudnet NB and Prittle CO, the mysterious "Visit Wall Drug" sign is burned in my psyche and I have longed to visit the emporium, if only to buy a "Visit Wall Drug" t-shirt.

 

Looking forward to miles of home movies.

 

Have a safe return.

 

John

 

 

From: "Frank"

Subject: Re: Minnesota to  South Dakota 

 

HI Tom

thanks for the memories of Wall, S.D. we were there many years ago at the famous drug store hahahah enjoy and drive safely...

Frank

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday, May 20, 2004

South Dakota to Wyoming

 

Ate breakfast at Wall Drug Cafe.  5 cent coffee, for crying out loud (don't break any speed limits for that bargain).

 

Drove to "Rapid" as the locals call Rapid City and entered the beautiful Custer State Park  and later on Badlands National Park.  Saw lots of wildlife including deer, buffalo and antelope (hmmm,  I feel a song coming on).  Also saw rabbits, and "greeting mules".  The burros were pack animals for the mining that went on here and were let loose hundreds of years ago.  Now they roam around and like to come up to car windows to check things out.  The prong horn antelope males were fighting

 

In Wyoming, we stopped at the Crazy Horse, the American Indian memorial.  The figures face is now formed and the horse and other details are being  worked on.  We ate lunch at Mt. Rushmore and were served by Ukrainian and Turkish servers.  Flags of all of the slates and pictures of the presidents lined the walls.  Later in the day saw Devil's Tower.

 

Last stop was Deadwood, WY where we toured the Mt. Moriah Cemetery and saw the graves of Wild Bill Hickcock and Clamity Jane.  Contrary to expectations, we didn't hear any obscene language.

 

 Stayed in Buffalo, WY for the night.  Can you believe it ... this is the first room we've had with three queens in it!!!

 

 From: "Mary"

Subject: Re: South Dakota to Wyoming 

 

 Hi guys -     I feel like I'm on vacation with you (without the lonely roads or inconvenience of analog cell service).  You certainly have been covering some beautiful ground.  How much longer do you estimate the trip will last? You certainly take great pictures!    

 

 Were you able to pick up Ron's evite to dinner at his house (now on June 26th)?   Sorry, the first date I'll be in Mustique (actually I'm not at all sorry but glad he decided to reschedule so I can participate).

 

     Thanks to Carl for the great postcard - really made my day.     Love,     Mary

 

 

 

From: "Frank"

Subject: Re: South Dakota to Wyoming 

 

Hi Tom

just loved that memory of Wall Drug again and Rapid  City - Badlands etc... we done that a number of years ago ... Mt. Rushmore and all

 

Deadwood as well to see Calamity and Hickcock... not like the T.V. series i am sure - with all the disgusting language on it.. we follow it however..

 

imagine a place with three "queens" in it..hahahahh   have fun...

Love Frank

 

 

From: "rhio"

Subject: Re: South Dakota to Wyoming 

 

5 cent coffee......I'm there!!!!!

No buffalo burgers?

And finally...(and you knew this was coming).....3 queens in the

room...didn't it get a bit crowded for the 6 of you???

rhio&bruce

 

 

Friday May 21, 2004

Yellowstone

 

Drove towards Yellowstone today.  Stopped for rain at a cafe in Ten Sleep, Wyoming.  We had an idea of what that name might mean, but found out it referred to a meeting here of two tribes that lasted "Ten Sleeps".

 

Drove over lonely roads stopping a couple of times to let cows cross the road.

 

Drove into the East entrance to Yellowstone.  TomO worked here in the 60's pumping gas.  This day we saw the trees damage by the fire of 1988.  Many, many little trees (4-6 feet tall). 

 

We stayed for the night at a cabin at the Snow Lodge.  This is a new hotel between the Old Faithful Lodge and the Old Faithful Inn (celebrating it's 100th year this year).  We walked over the Old Faithful for the 6:10 PM show and were not disappointed

 

At dinner at the Snow Lodge dining room.  I had grilled polenta with grilled vegetables (yum!!)  TomO and Carl had trout.

 

It snowed during the night!  Not really enough to stick, but there was a "drift" on our windshield. 


A warning for prospective Yellowstone visitors:  There is no TV, Satellite, High Speed Internet (or ANY Internet), radio.  Even your cell phone only gets an analog signal.  I don't know how all of these people manage.  When we were leaving, we saw a poor guy sitting on the floor under a pay phone with a wire in his hand looking for a data port.  Okay, I warned you.

 

 

From: John

Subject: Re: Yellowstone 

 

 ... we saw a poor guy sitting on the floor under a pay phone with a wire in his hand looking for a data port. My God! What a pathetic creature... and I can't think of anything worse than trying to enjoy Yellowstone and having to listen to imbeciles on their cells.

 

Happy Travels.

 

John

 

 

From: "Diane"

Subject: Re: Yellowstone 

 

At some time Rob will have to tell you about this encounter with a bear while he was hitchhiking his way around Yellowstone.  On the road leaving Old Faithful.  On foot.  No car traffic in sight.

 

 

From: "Jon"

Subject: RE: Yellowstone 

 

 

Good to hear you are all making your way home as scheduled.  Thanks for all

the tidbits and postcards along the way.

Just pondering - why would anyone who'd gone through the trouble of driving

long distances to enjoy the beauty of Yellowstone need to worry about TV,

Satellite, High Speed Internet (or ANY Internet), radio, or even a cell

phone? Hmmm....

Looking forward to seeing you home in a couple of days.

J

 

 

Monday 24

Reno to Home or "Bust"

 

On Saturday we drove from Yellowstone to Ketchum, Idaho which is adjacent to Sun Valley.  We were not able to get into the restaurant where the stars dine, so we ate at Rico's Pasta and Pizza (very good).

 

Extra effort was expended on the second to last day to allow us to reach Reno, Nevada.  There we check into the Silver Legacy Resort Hotel next to Circus Circus.  We had a nice long dinner together and got to bed early for the relatively short last leg (Reno to Bay Area).  We had the "brilliant" idea of  returning our rental car to Berkeley instead of SFO and that saved a couple of hours.

 

On this adventure, we:

drove 8,610 miles

visited 16 states

and kept speaking to each other!

 

 

From: charles

Subject: Re: Homeward Bound!

 

Tom,

 

Welcome home!

 

 

From: "Frank"

Subject: Re: We are home! 

 

Hi Tom

Nice to hear from you and that you arrived safe and sound and are home..thats great  long trip we have done that trip a couple of times...ourselves.. but no more driving anymore we will fly to Vegas in August...and rent a car to Calif...part of the way..I just hate driving in heavy traffic anymore Toronto is terrible for traffic it is wall to wall cars .. all the time.

 

Anyway bed time for me... keep well and get a nice welcomed rest...

and at least your still all talking hahahahah

Love Frank

 

 

From: "Mary"

Subject: Re: We are home! 

 

All three of you guys are amazing!  What a great adventure and I'm so proud of all of you for still being able to like each other after being together for such a long time.  Thank you, truly, for sharing it with me - it's been such fun to live the trip through you.

    XOXO

     Mary

 

 

From: Phil

Subject: Re: We are home!

 

Bravo, great trip and posts and welcome back home to Bay Area, the Best Place in the World!  ;)

 

From: "rhio"

Subject: Re: We are home! 

 

 

8,000+ miles I can believe.  17 states I can believe.  But I can NOT believe you are still speaking!!!!

With a civil tongue?

 

Congratulations one and all....and thanks for taking us along for the

ride....it's been great fun.....when's the party?

Rhio & Bruce

 

From: Kim

Subject: How Yellowstone Got Its Name

 

 Dear Tom--

 

 Thanks for the photos of your visit to Yellowstone.

 

 Richard and I visited there in 2002, and had a great time watching buffalo (or is it "bisen"?) wallowing in the dust.  Quite a spectacle. I was in Eastern Idaho all last week, tying up loose ends following my Dad's death there last Winter.

 

 Are you coming anywhere near Oregon on your trip West?

 

Hope all is well, Love, KIM

 

 

From: Kim

Subject: Mary Tyler Moore? 

 

Dear Tom--

 

I think that ONLY a group of happy men on a cross-country auto tour would

photograph the statue of Mary Tyler Moore in Minneapolis!

 

Are we stereotypes, or what?

 

Loved it, KIM

 

From: Kim

Subject: Win Anything in Reno?

 

 Dear Tom--

 

 Strange, but I was traveling through Twin Falls on Saturday.  Had I thought about it, we could have met somewhere along the way, maybe at Malad Falls. There is not much to see in Idaho.  The area around Sun Valley is about the nicest place in the state.  Certainly the southern part, from Ketchum south, leaves much to be desired.  Now do you see why the Oregon Trail pioneers kept going to the Willamette Valley?

 

Hope you are safe and sound, now at home, Best wishes, KIMb

 

From: John

Subject: Re: We are home! 

 

Welcome back boyz!  John and David forwarded your triply-addressed Jersey St. card to me today.

 

Now get your laundry done.

 

John

 

From: "Stafford"

Subject: Re: We are home! 

 

Welcome back!!  Your postcards were great, they really gave a flavor of the trip.

I look forward to talking once you get settled back in.  xo S

 

 

From: "Dick"

Subject: RE: We are home! 

 

 

I was wondering who the four old guys in the photo were.  'just kidding). 

 

you have certainly covered a lot of territory:  At this moment I am in a cyber cafe in Colmar, doing battle w<ith a French co,puter and listening to French youths play cyber cafes.  We get back to Paris on 5/31 for two evenings with Billy C. before he returns to the USA.  I return on 6/6, avoiding all the D-Day anniversary festivities.

love; Dick

 

From: KENNETH

Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2004 4:17 PM

Subject: Re: hey

 

Carl,

 

We had such fun with you all. Hope you can return. Thanks for the restaurants; we will look forward to trying a few in August Tell Tom I can't seem to get his itinerary, perhaps because the computer doesn't have the capacity. His most recent ones just don't download or whatever the word is. Hi to both Tom's.

 

Jackie

 

This site was last updated 05/31/04