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