Yesterday we drove down to LA from San Francisco along the Pacific Coast Highway. The views were amazing! I can't even describe them to you; I guess you'll just have to wait for pictures. The water was so blue and there were mountains on the other side of the road. At one point we stopped and saw dozens of elephant seals on the beach. There were tons of people lined up on the side of the road. I think it's great that something so simple can still captivate the attention of so many people. We stopped at a local store in Big Sur for lunch and had homemade burritos. One last interesting thing about our drive down the PCH, we really really needed gas at one point and caved to buy it along the way. For $10 we got approximately 2 gallons. Luckily it was more than enough to get us to cheaper gas.
We arrived at my cousin's house in LA around 8pm. My cousin's wife, Kieu, greeted us cooked us a lot of Vietnamese food. After sitting in LA traffic, it was nice to finally be out of the car!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
San Francisco
Before this trip I always spelled San Francisco wrong, and now I'm pretty sure that I'll never spell it wrong again. Speaking of San Francisco...today was a whirlwind day! We got up early again hoping to get tickets for Alcatraz and even arrived at the pier half an hour before the first tour. Unfortunately upon our arrival we discovered that tickets were sold out until Thursday!! That was disappointing, but it did mean that we had even more time to do other things in the city.
After walking around Fisherman's Wharf for a while and finding Ghirardelli Square (I did it for you Momo), we made our way to Alamo Square. We saw the famous row of Painted Lady Victorian Houses with the San Francisco skyline in the background. You can see the row of houses in the opening credits of Full House and a number movies.
Next, I navigated my way to Golden Gate Park to visit the Japanese Tea Garden. The maps are not drawn to scale for this part of the city and it looked a lot closer than it really was! The Garden has koi ponds, Japanese maples, and bonsai. There's even a bronze Buddha, a Shinto wooden pagoda, a Zen Garden, and an outdoor teahouse. The pictures I saw of it before hand looked really pretty and I'm glad that I found it!
Then I made my way to the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood to meet up with Ilona again. While I was standing on the street corner waiting for Ilona I ran into someone that I went to high school with. That was certainly unexpected! For those of you unfamiliar with "the Haight," it the center of hippie culture in the 60s. Our guidebook says, "During the 1967 'Summer of Love,' thousands of young people flooded Haight-Ashbury in search of free love, drugs, and music." You can still find a lot of interesting people and shops in the neighborhood today. Ilona and I found the former residence of the Grateful Dead. I really enjoyed this neighborhood!
Then we made our way back down to Fisherman's Wharf to take a tour of the Boudin Sourdough Bakery (my mom's request). It was a very well spent $3 for the self-guided tour and free samples. I liked watching them mix the dough and section it off for loafs. I got some really cool pictures of the animal shapes they make out of the bread, for example alligators, teddy bears, crabs, and turtles.
The last thing we did today was taking the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to visit with Ilona's aunt and uncle. We went out to dinner and it was a lovely visit.
Tomorrow it's time to hit the road again. I wish that I could spend more time in San Francisco. There are definitely more things that I'd like to see and do. Oh well, tomorrow we're off down the Pacific Coast Highway to LA.
After walking around Fisherman's Wharf for a while and finding Ghirardelli Square (I did it for you Momo), we made our way to Alamo Square. We saw the famous row of Painted Lady Victorian Houses with the San Francisco skyline in the background. You can see the row of houses in the opening credits of Full House and a number movies.
Next, I navigated my way to Golden Gate Park to visit the Japanese Tea Garden. The maps are not drawn to scale for this part of the city and it looked a lot closer than it really was! The Garden has koi ponds, Japanese maples, and bonsai. There's even a bronze Buddha, a Shinto wooden pagoda, a Zen Garden, and an outdoor teahouse. The pictures I saw of it before hand looked really pretty and I'm glad that I found it!
Then I made my way to the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood to meet up with Ilona again. While I was standing on the street corner waiting for Ilona I ran into someone that I went to high school with. That was certainly unexpected! For those of you unfamiliar with "the Haight," it the center of hippie culture in the 60s. Our guidebook says, "During the 1967 'Summer of Love,' thousands of young people flooded Haight-Ashbury in search of free love, drugs, and music." You can still find a lot of interesting people and shops in the neighborhood today. Ilona and I found the former residence of the Grateful Dead. I really enjoyed this neighborhood!
Then we made our way back down to Fisherman's Wharf to take a tour of the Boudin Sourdough Bakery (my mom's request). It was a very well spent $3 for the self-guided tour and free samples. I liked watching them mix the dough and section it off for loafs. I got some really cool pictures of the animal shapes they make out of the bread, for example alligators, teddy bears, crabs, and turtles.
The last thing we did today was taking the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to visit with Ilona's aunt and uncle. We went out to dinner and it was a lovely visit.
Tomorrow it's time to hit the road again. I wish that I could spend more time in San Francisco. There are definitely more things that I'd like to see and do. Oh well, tomorrow we're off down the Pacific Coast Highway to LA.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, & San Francisco part 1
I feel very accomplished tonight, we officially drove across the country! Today we saw some of the most incredible scenery ever, and the Mini got the workout of it's very short life. At more than one point today it climbed to over 10,000 feet with all of our stuff loaded in the back.
This morning we were on our way out of Reno at 7:30am. The "free" continental breakfast at the hotel consisted of danishes, orange juice, and coffee without creamer or sugar. I guess you can't expect too much for $60. Anyway, we headed up the mountains towards the North side of Lake Tahoe. I instantly fell in love with the mountains and crystal clear blue water.
From Lake Tahoe we traveled to Yosemite National Park. On the way I kept taking pictures of the mountains we were driving past, and after consulting the map realized I was taking pictures of the mountains we would soon be driving through. The Mini made it up some more rather large mountains. In Yosemite we drove through the Tioga Pass and had spectacular views of cliffs, water falls, streams, trees, and more. We thought that the road leading to the Tioga Pass was twisty, but it was nothing compared to the road leaving! This was the craziest road I have ever seen! I felt like we were driving in a giant maze. It actually reminded me of driving on The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. These are the types of roads were you can't sneeze or else you'll drive off the side into an abyss. We were getting bored with the scenery of the Midwest and Plains States, and we definitely got what we wished for!
On our way from Yosemite to San Francisco we hit a whole bunch of traffic on the highway; between all the traffic and the asshole drivers, I felt right at home. After driving over the Bay Bridge into San Francisco we landed in what looked like the Financial District, and it looked very similar to Boston's Financial District. We found our hostel easily, but finding parking was a challenge. Anyway, after getting ourselves and the Mini settled we headed out to see the sunset at the Golden Gate Bridge. After the sunset we walked around Union Square a little bit, but since it's a Sunday night not much was open. I hate tourists in Boston and avoid the touristy areas like the plague because they're just annoying. It's weird being a tourist in another city!
We're spending two nights in San Francisco. It's a strange feeling knowing that I don't have to pack up my stuff and hit the road again tomorrow. I'm sure it'll feel even stranger tomorrow when we're not in the car. Tomorrow morning the hostel has a free breakfast, including waffles! We have a busy day planned out for tomorrow, but you'll just have to check back to see exactly what we've done.
I'm starting to view this trip as a taste test of the US. We are only in places for a very short while, and I can tell the places I'd like to visit again and the ones I never want to go back again.
This morning we were on our way out of Reno at 7:30am. The "free" continental breakfast at the hotel consisted of danishes, orange juice, and coffee without creamer or sugar. I guess you can't expect too much for $60. Anyway, we headed up the mountains towards the North side of Lake Tahoe. I instantly fell in love with the mountains and crystal clear blue water.
From Lake Tahoe we traveled to Yosemite National Park. On the way I kept taking pictures of the mountains we were driving past, and after consulting the map realized I was taking pictures of the mountains we would soon be driving through. The Mini made it up some more rather large mountains. In Yosemite we drove through the Tioga Pass and had spectacular views of cliffs, water falls, streams, trees, and more. We thought that the road leading to the Tioga Pass was twisty, but it was nothing compared to the road leaving! This was the craziest road I have ever seen! I felt like we were driving in a giant maze. It actually reminded me of driving on The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. These are the types of roads were you can't sneeze or else you'll drive off the side into an abyss. We were getting bored with the scenery of the Midwest and Plains States, and we definitely got what we wished for!
On our way from Yosemite to San Francisco we hit a whole bunch of traffic on the highway; between all the traffic and the asshole drivers, I felt right at home. After driving over the Bay Bridge into San Francisco we landed in what looked like the Financial District, and it looked very similar to Boston's Financial District. We found our hostel easily, but finding parking was a challenge. Anyway, after getting ourselves and the Mini settled we headed out to see the sunset at the Golden Gate Bridge. After the sunset we walked around Union Square a little bit, but since it's a Sunday night not much was open. I hate tourists in Boston and avoid the touristy areas like the plague because they're just annoying. It's weird being a tourist in another city!
We're spending two nights in San Francisco. It's a strange feeling knowing that I don't have to pack up my stuff and hit the road again tomorrow. I'm sure it'll feel even stranger tomorrow when we're not in the car. Tomorrow morning the hostel has a free breakfast, including waffles! We have a busy day planned out for tomorrow, but you'll just have to check back to see exactly what we've done.
I'm starting to view this trip as a taste test of the US. We are only in places for a very short while, and I can tell the places I'd like to visit again and the ones I never want to go back again.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Reno, NV
This morning I woke up to the sun rising outside of our tent and it was wonderful. After another meal with Nanna we took the free shuttle to Temple Square. A trip to Salt Lake City wouldn't be complete without learning about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Apparently they agree because they go out of their way to attract and shuttle people to their buildings and tours. As a community service, church members drive people from the airport and other areas around Salt Lake to Temple Square for free. Then they offer free tours where they share their beliefs about Jesus and tell about the church. It's all amazingly crafted propaganda. All of the missionary Sisters were very smiley and friendly, but almost to the point where they seemed like Stepford Sisters. My favorite part was the document they handed out at the end of the tour called, "The Family: A Proclamation to the World." You should google it and read it. I'm conflicted about my feelings towards the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They do a lot of amazing humanitarian work, but it bothers me how unaccepting they can be. Overall, it was a very interesting experience to say the least and I'm glad we went.
Leaving Salt Lake City we drove past the Great Salt Lake and stopped to take pictures. The drive to Reno was enjoyable; I like driving around, between, over, and into mountains!
Reno is just plain trashy... the hotels, the casinos, the women, and the men are creepy. I've decided that I generally don't enjoy casinos. I feel like for the most part they attract people who really can't afford to be there, and I hate watching them waste their money. My tastes lie somewhere between the Mormons and Reno. On a positive note, I took another gorgeous picture of the sunset outside of our hotel room here in Reno.
Tomorrow we're getting up early to visit Tahoe, Yosemite, and San Francisco. I can't wait to put my feet in the Pacific Ocean and say we officially crossed the US!
Leaving Salt Lake City we drove past the Great Salt Lake and stopped to take pictures. The drive to Reno was enjoyable; I like driving around, between, over, and into mountains!
Reno is just plain trashy... the hotels, the casinos, the women, and the men are creepy. I've decided that I generally don't enjoy casinos. I feel like for the most part they attract people who really can't afford to be there, and I hate watching them waste their money. My tastes lie somewhere between the Mormons and Reno. On a positive note, I took another gorgeous picture of the sunset outside of our hotel room here in Reno.
Tomorrow we're getting up early to visit Tahoe, Yosemite, and San Francisco. I can't wait to put my feet in the Pacific Ocean and say we officially crossed the US!
Friday, July 13, 2007
Salt Lake City, UT
First of all, the Black Hills of South Dakota are spectacular. Last night when we drove in, it was so dark that I couldn't see the surrounding area. I was getting frustrated because I was so tired and the roads were so twisty and full of turns. However, this morning I loved driving through in the daylight. Second, Wyoming was miserable and I definitely never want to live there. There were a few things that I enjoyed seeing, but otherwise I couldn't get out fast enough...too bad it took over 8 hours! I say the only reason I'd really go back is for Yellowstone.
As for Utah, I'm in love! Crossing the Utah line brought on a very drastic change in scenery. Driving on the highway was so amazing; the trees were so green and the mountains were so high. I was in awe of it all.
We got to our next campsite before dark this time. Putting up the tent was much easier in the light! After we put our tent up we went to visit Nana, the campsite cook. She had a wonderful all you can eat dinner for $9.50, and was the friendliest lady ever. We'll probably head back for the all you can eat breakfast in the morning. After dinner we hopped into the hot tub and pool. It was nice to sit in the hot tub after so much driving in the past week.
We found an electrical outlet in our campsite, and it was a great find for using and charging computers! Our campsite neighbors are from New Hampshire. We started talking and told them that we're from Boston. He didn't believe us at first and asked why we'd be here when we could be there. I'd much rather be here, that's for sure!
There's a free shuttle bus that runs from the campsite to downtown Salt Lake. The lady at the registration desk said that it's free, but the only form of payment is a tour. We're both really curious what such a tour will entail. We're thinking it might be a Mormon proselytizing type tour. I think that we're going to go in the morning just to find out exactly what kind of tour it is. Then we'll be off to Reno!
As for Utah, I'm in love! Crossing the Utah line brought on a very drastic change in scenery. Driving on the highway was so amazing; the trees were so green and the mountains were so high. I was in awe of it all.
We got to our next campsite before dark this time. Putting up the tent was much easier in the light! After we put our tent up we went to visit Nana, the campsite cook. She had a wonderful all you can eat dinner for $9.50, and was the friendliest lady ever. We'll probably head back for the all you can eat breakfast in the morning. After dinner we hopped into the hot tub and pool. It was nice to sit in the hot tub after so much driving in the past week.
We found an electrical outlet in our campsite, and it was a great find for using and charging computers! Our campsite neighbors are from New Hampshire. We started talking and told them that we're from Boston. He didn't believe us at first and asked why we'd be here when we could be there. I'd much rather be here, that's for sure!
There's a free shuttle bus that runs from the campsite to downtown Salt Lake. The lady at the registration desk said that it's free, but the only form of payment is a tour. We're both really curious what such a tour will entail. We're thinking it might be a Mormon proselytizing type tour. I think that we're going to go in the morning just to find out exactly what kind of tour it is. Then we'll be off to Reno!
Hill City, SD
I'm currently posting from inside a tent 5 miles away from Mt. Rushmore; it's a little strange to be on the internet while camping in the Black Hills of South Dakota! I've started to keep notes while we're driving so that I don't forget anything. The days are long and we see so much that I'm bound to forget by the time I get to post.
Yesterday morning I woke up and had no idea what day of the week it was; it was a nice feeling. We did indeed visit the Mall of America and IKEA for breakfast. I couldn't believe it, but there was a line at the door of IKEA with people waiting for breakfast. The store didn't even open until half an hour after breakfast started. I was going to take a picture of that, but I refrained. Eric also showed us the Minnehaha Falls and they were really pretty. I think what I really like might be the name. I saw a car parked on the Minnehaha Parkway with the license plate, "Hahah20." I got a good chuckle out of it! Minnesota reminds me of the NPR show, Prairie Home Companion; just because it takes place in Minnesota, no other reason.
As we were driving yesterday, I couldn't help but wonder what kind of gas mileage a huge camper pulling a car behind it must get. I wouldn't want that gas bill!! I accidentally ran over some type of bird yesterday that was running across the road. I heard a thump and looked back to see feathers everywhere! There are remnants on one of the side mirrors. We saw our first sign for Wall Drug 355 miles away, and of course we eventually stopped 355 miles later. We also stopped at a place called The Corn Palace. I was disappointed because it really wasn't a corn palace, but it's okay because it was free.
The Badlands were incredible! Pictures really don't do them justice at all (don't worry mom, I still took pictures anyway). I loved driving in them! After visiting the Badlands and Wall Drug we ended up driving off into the sunset. It was absolutely gorgeous, and I hope to be one of many more to come. We arrived in Hill City around 9:45, and as we were driving to the campground we drove past Mt.Rushmore all lit up. It's definitely smaller than I was expecting, but we're going to head back this morning to investigate in day light.
After we finally arrived at the campsite we had to put the tent up in the dark. It was very comical to say the least since it's a brand new tent and I had never put it up before! You can use your imagination.
I'm off for the $2.50, all you can eat pancake breakfast that they have here at the campground. By the way, it's the nicest campground I've ever seen! I'll leave you with my next question. Why are there an abundance of SEA food restaurants in the midwest? Seems strange to me!
Yesterday morning I woke up and had no idea what day of the week it was; it was a nice feeling. We did indeed visit the Mall of America and IKEA for breakfast. I couldn't believe it, but there was a line at the door of IKEA with people waiting for breakfast. The store didn't even open until half an hour after breakfast started. I was going to take a picture of that, but I refrained. Eric also showed us the Minnehaha Falls and they were really pretty. I think what I really like might be the name. I saw a car parked on the Minnehaha Parkway with the license plate, "Hahah20." I got a good chuckle out of it! Minnesota reminds me of the NPR show, Prairie Home Companion; just because it takes place in Minnesota, no other reason.
As we were driving yesterday, I couldn't help but wonder what kind of gas mileage a huge camper pulling a car behind it must get. I wouldn't want that gas bill!! I accidentally ran over some type of bird yesterday that was running across the road. I heard a thump and looked back to see feathers everywhere! There are remnants on one of the side mirrors. We saw our first sign for Wall Drug 355 miles away, and of course we eventually stopped 355 miles later. We also stopped at a place called The Corn Palace. I was disappointed because it really wasn't a corn palace, but it's okay because it was free.
The Badlands were incredible! Pictures really don't do them justice at all (don't worry mom, I still took pictures anyway). I loved driving in them! After visiting the Badlands and Wall Drug we ended up driving off into the sunset. It was absolutely gorgeous, and I hope to be one of many more to come. We arrived in Hill City around 9:45, and as we were driving to the campground we drove past Mt.Rushmore all lit up. It's definitely smaller than I was expecting, but we're going to head back this morning to investigate in day light.
After we finally arrived at the campsite we had to put the tent up in the dark. It was very comical to say the least since it's a brand new tent and I had never put it up before! You can use your imagination.
I'm off for the $2.50, all you can eat pancake breakfast that they have here at the campground. By the way, it's the nicest campground I've ever seen! I'll leave you with my next question. Why are there an abundance of SEA food restaurants in the midwest? Seems strange to me!
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Minneapolis, MN
Well well well...day 4. We woke up bright and early again this morning. I've been enjoying the time change. I always like heading West, because I feel like I'm gaining time. Uncle Joe made us scrambled eggs for breakfast (he loves making omeletts!). We spent a little more time with Pepere while he was eating his breakfast and then said good bye. Uncle Joe then gave us a personalized tour of Kenosha. We went to see Lake Michigan, went to the Kenosha Public Museum (to see a Woolly Mammoth), and then we toured my Aunt's horse farm. I saw a coffee shop called Mo's in downtown Kenosha (I took a picture of it for you Momo!). Before we left town and headed towards MN, we stopped at Target and I picked up a $10 headlamp (I know mom, the head lamp....you have no idea how sad I was!) to use the next few days and a neck pillow to make the car a little more comfortable.
After Target we got onto 94 and were on our way around noon. The drive through Wisconsin was pretty boring. There was a lot of corn and flat land. However, I've really been enjoying watching the white fluffy clouds as we drive. Once we started getting closer to Minnesota the scenery became a lot nicer. The only interesting thing to report from the road today is a license plate that read, "STRBUCKS." I'm hoping that they own a Starbucks or something and don't just love the coffee. We arrived in St. Paul and Minneapolis around 6:30ish. I really enjoyed driving in Minneapolis traffic this evening. I've missed driving on Storrow Drive in Boston every day and it was fun to drive in city traffic again. I already know that's weird.
Ilona's friend, Eric, showed us around Minneapolis. I wasn't sure if I liked it at first, but it quickly grew on me. I think that it's another place I would consider living if it didn't get so darn cold. We got to see a lot of the downtown and then went to visit The Spoon Bridge. I guess it's a famous piece of sculpture. It was cool because it's a giant silver spoon with a cherry at the end, and the Minneapolis skyline is in the backround. After taking funny pictures with the spoon we headed to dinner. We ate at a Blues and BBQ place. Who would have thought BBQ in Minnesota? I certainly would have never put the two together. It was good and the I enjoyed listening to the live music.
I've been pretty bad at posting pictures, but Ilona has been keeping up. You can find her pictures in a link from her blog (there's a link on the side of this page to her blog).
Tomorrow morning we're heading to IKEA for the $.99 breakfast and then stopping by the Mall of America. What US Road trip would be complete without a trip there? I feel like by the end of this trip I'm going to need a caffeine IV!
After Target we got onto 94 and were on our way around noon. The drive through Wisconsin was pretty boring. There was a lot of corn and flat land. However, I've really been enjoying watching the white fluffy clouds as we drive. Once we started getting closer to Minnesota the scenery became a lot nicer. The only interesting thing to report from the road today is a license plate that read, "STRBUCKS." I'm hoping that they own a Starbucks or something and don't just love the coffee. We arrived in St. Paul and Minneapolis around 6:30ish. I really enjoyed driving in Minneapolis traffic this evening. I've missed driving on Storrow Drive in Boston every day and it was fun to drive in city traffic again. I already know that's weird.
Ilona's friend, Eric, showed us around Minneapolis. I wasn't sure if I liked it at first, but it quickly grew on me. I think that it's another place I would consider living if it didn't get so darn cold. We got to see a lot of the downtown and then went to visit The Spoon Bridge. I guess it's a famous piece of sculpture. It was cool because it's a giant silver spoon with a cherry at the end, and the Minneapolis skyline is in the backround. After taking funny pictures with the spoon we headed to dinner. We ate at a Blues and BBQ place. Who would have thought BBQ in Minnesota? I certainly would have never put the two together. It was good and the I enjoyed listening to the live music.
I've been pretty bad at posting pictures, but Ilona has been keeping up. You can find her pictures in a link from her blog (there's a link on the side of this page to her blog).
Tomorrow morning we're heading to IKEA for the $.99 breakfast and then stopping by the Mall of America. What US Road trip would be complete without a trip there? I feel like by the end of this trip I'm going to need a caffeine IV!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Pleasant Prairie, WI
This morning we were up and were pulling away from Pete's house at 7:10 Eastern Time. It was a very long day of driving; 14 hours spent in the car. We drove through New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. It wasn't until the last 45 minutes or so that I really couldn't wait to get out of the car. We arrived at my Aunt Michelle and Uncle Joe's house around 8pm Central Time where Uncle Joe had pizza and salad waiting for us. Boy did that taste good!
My Pepere (my grandfather) was doing well tonight. He reached into his pocket and handed me a little money and said, "Here, either for putting gas in the car or in your belly." I thought it was really funny. We got to do a little laundry tonight; that was nice! Uncle Joe and Ilona were comparing mini cars, because he has a Mazda Miata. I guess he's really been wanting to get a Mini Cooper, so I took both my aunt and uncle for a short ride around the block.
Anyway, we saw a lot of funny things in the car and the time went by fairly quickly. Here are some highlights from today's journey:
- We started listening to the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The story takes place in Savannah, and it's one of our last stops of the trip.
- We've been waiving to other Mini Cooper drivers to see how many wave back. So far we're up to 2 or 3.
- In Ohio we passed a car full of Amish people. Are they really allowed to drive?
- The Grateful Dead song Truckin' came on, and I thought it was very appropriate since we were making the longest leg of our journey.
- In Indiana we passed the RV and Motor Home Hall of Fame.
- We also passed a license plate with the following plate, "GoBoSox." We stalked that car like we did the one yesterday to take a picture. I think he noticed us because he changed lanes a few times, slowed down all of a sudden, and then drove off quickly. It was worth it for the picture.
_ Trying to take pictures of the Chicago skyline with Eastie (our mascot) as we drove past.
Driving with the GPS system reminds me of using cardio equipment at the gym. You look over and can see exactly how many miles you have left to travel and how long it's going to take you. It's really kind of strange. I'm also getting used to driving the Mini, and it was much more comfortable for me today.
Ilona's brother emailed us and Ilona forgot her sneakers in Ithaca and I forgot my head lamp. We were both so excited about these things and spent awhile talking about them....and then we both forgot our respective items. Soon we're going to have an empty car if we keep forgetting things! We already have a Target list started, and now it looks like we have a few more items to add to the list. Hopefully we won't forget anything else along the way!
I'm starting to lose track of time completely. I only know what day it is based on where I'm heading. I can only imagine what it's going to be like by the end of my trip.
My Pepere (my grandfather) was doing well tonight. He reached into his pocket and handed me a little money and said, "Here, either for putting gas in the car or in your belly." I thought it was really funny. We got to do a little laundry tonight; that was nice! Uncle Joe and Ilona were comparing mini cars, because he has a Mazda Miata. I guess he's really been wanting to get a Mini Cooper, so I took both my aunt and uncle for a short ride around the block.
Anyway, we saw a lot of funny things in the car and the time went by fairly quickly. Here are some highlights from today's journey:
- We started listening to the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The story takes place in Savannah, and it's one of our last stops of the trip.
- We've been waiving to other Mini Cooper drivers to see how many wave back. So far we're up to 2 or 3.
- In Ohio we passed a car full of Amish people. Are they really allowed to drive?
- The Grateful Dead song Truckin' came on, and I thought it was very appropriate since we were making the longest leg of our journey.
- In Indiana we passed the RV and Motor Home Hall of Fame.
- We also passed a license plate with the following plate, "GoBoSox." We stalked that car like we did the one yesterday to take a picture. I think he noticed us because he changed lanes a few times, slowed down all of a sudden, and then drove off quickly. It was worth it for the picture.
_ Trying to take pictures of the Chicago skyline with Eastie (our mascot) as we drove past.
Driving with the GPS system reminds me of using cardio equipment at the gym. You look over and can see exactly how many miles you have left to travel and how long it's going to take you. It's really kind of strange. I'm also getting used to driving the Mini, and it was much more comfortable for me today.
Ilona's brother emailed us and Ilona forgot her sneakers in Ithaca and I forgot my head lamp. We were both so excited about these things and spent awhile talking about them....and then we both forgot our respective items. Soon we're going to have an empty car if we keep forgetting things! We already have a Target list started, and now it looks like we have a few more items to add to the list. Hopefully we won't forget anything else along the way!
I'm starting to lose track of time completely. I only know what day it is based on where I'm heading. I can only imagine what it's going to be like by the end of my trip.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Ithaca, NY
This morning we woke up, re-packed the Mini (we're getting better at it), and headed to a local hole in the wall for breakfast. The minute we walked in the door all eyes were on us, because we were clearly the outsiders. After breakfast we hit the road to Ithaca to visit with Ilona's brother and his family.
On the NY Freeway we saw a car with a NY License plate and a Boston Red Sox license plate holder...such irony! We had to have a picture of it so we stalked the car for awhile trying to get a clear picture. After speeding up, slowing down, and changing lanes we finally got a clear picture. People at stop lights like to look over at us, and you know that they're talking about the Mini.
After 4 hrs of driving we arrived in Ithaca. Ilona's brother, Pete, and his son, Daniel, showed us around town all afternoon. I love Ithaca!! It has a very hippiesh feel to it, and we even came across a UU church when we first drove into town. I would definitely consider moving here if it didn't get so cold in the winter. We had a lovely afternoon meeting friends. One lady gave us origami cranes left over from a wedding party the other day for good luck. They can join Eastie, our mascot, in the front window of the Mini.
Once Nancy, Pete's wife, got home from work we went to take a walk to see Taughannock Falls. They are part of the gorges that Ithaca is known for. We then went out to a little bar/restaurant called Glenn Falls where they were voted to have Ithaca's best burger. It certainly was tasty. It was a storybook summer evening with waterfalls, burgers, ice cream, even a summer thunderstorms, and lots of fireflies.
Tomorrow we're getting up early to make the 12 hr treck to Wisconsin. I can't say I'm looking forward to that drive very much!!
On the NY Freeway we saw a car with a NY License plate and a Boston Red Sox license plate holder...such irony! We had to have a picture of it so we stalked the car for awhile trying to get a clear picture. After speeding up, slowing down, and changing lanes we finally got a clear picture. People at stop lights like to look over at us, and you know that they're talking about the Mini.
After 4 hrs of driving we arrived in Ithaca. Ilona's brother, Pete, and his son, Daniel, showed us around town all afternoon. I love Ithaca!! It has a very hippiesh feel to it, and we even came across a UU church when we first drove into town. I would definitely consider moving here if it didn't get so cold in the winter. We had a lovely afternoon meeting friends. One lady gave us origami cranes left over from a wedding party the other day for good luck. They can join Eastie, our mascot, in the front window of the Mini.
Once Nancy, Pete's wife, got home from work we went to take a walk to see Taughannock Falls. They are part of the gorges that Ithaca is known for. We then went out to a little bar/restaurant called Glenn Falls where they were voted to have Ithaca's best burger. It certainly was tasty. It was a storybook summer evening with waterfalls, burgers, ice cream, even a summer thunderstorms, and lots of fireflies.
Tomorrow we're getting up early to make the 12 hr treck to Wisconsin. I can't say I'm looking forward to that drive very much!!
Lake Luzerne, NY
Ilona arrived in CT on Saturday afternoon and we went to the cottage for pizza Saturday with some of my family. Charlie (one of my cousins) took me on motorcycle ride, and I had a blast! Now I definitely want to get my motorcyle license. We had a campfire and made smores. I actually had the patience to roast my marshmellow brown instead of just sticking it directly in the fire and burning it. Very yummy!
Yesterday morning we hit the road around 10:30ish after packing the Mini and having breakfast with my dad. We typed the address for Rachel's cabin in Lake Luzerne into the GPS and we were off. (Rachel is one of Ilona's college roommates.) We drove up RT 44 and RT 7 through the Berkshires; it's all beautiful this time of year. After about 3 1/2 hrs of driving we reached the Adirondacks and I met Rachel's giant family! Everyone was very friendly and I enjoyed spending time with all of them. We spent the afternoon sitting by the lake for awhile and did a little kayaking. After dinner we drove about 15 minutes into the Village of Lake George. It was all very nice.
Did you know that Rachel Ray grew up in Luzerne?
Yesterday morning we hit the road around 10:30ish after packing the Mini and having breakfast with my dad. We typed the address for Rachel's cabin in Lake Luzerne into the GPS and we were off. (Rachel is one of Ilona's college roommates.) We drove up RT 44 and RT 7 through the Berkshires; it's all beautiful this time of year. After about 3 1/2 hrs of driving we reached the Adirondacks and I met Rachel's giant family! Everyone was very friendly and I enjoyed spending time with all of them. We spent the afternoon sitting by the lake for awhile and did a little kayaking. After dinner we drove about 15 minutes into the Village of Lake George. It was all very nice.
Did you know that Rachel Ray grew up in Luzerne?
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Leaving soon
We're hitting the road tomorrow morning. It's hard to believe that it's actually time to go!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Let the fun begin!
My last day of work was on Friday. It was a little sad leaving for the last time; I'll definitely miss everything. As a going away gift one of my co-workers, Gina, gave me this cute little animal called a Webkinz. She had been telling me about them for awhile and how they are the lastest thing like Beanie Babies. I named him Eastie for East Boston (I worked at East Boston Neighborhood Health Center). I also decided that he's going to be the mascot for this summer. He'll ride around in the car and see America with Ilona and I!
As for the GRE, I'm officially done! I was so nervous! I did well enough to get into grad school. I might take them one more time in the fall though, we'll see. A huge weight has been lifted off my chest and now I can get excited for the road trip. Everything is in place and I can't wait! Time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the summer! :)
As for the GRE, I'm officially done! I was so nervous! I did well enough to get into grad school. I might take them one more time in the fall though, we'll see. A huge weight has been lifted off my chest and now I can get excited for the road trip. Everything is in place and I can't wait! Time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the summer! :)
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
List of Main Destinations
We will be spending our nights in the following locations:
Canton, CT
Luzerne, NY
Ithaca, NY
Pleasant Prairie, WI
Minneapolis, MN
Rapid City, SD
Salt Lake City, UT
Reno, NV
San Francisco, CA
Los Angeles, CA
San Diego, CA
Las Vegas, NV
The Grand Canyon
Mesa Verde, CO
Santa Fe, NM (on Ilona's birthday)
Carlsbad, NM
Austin, TX
New Orleans, LA
Crestview, FL
Atlanta, GA
Savannah, GA
Charleston, SC
Chevy Chase, MD
Of course we'll also be making stops along the way. If you are reading this and have any suggestions for places to stop and see along the way, feel free to leave a comment!
I'm very excited to site see, make new friends, and visit with old friends and family. On the trip I will also be visiting a lot of grad schools. I think it'll be a great way to get a feel for each different city and school. This is a multi-purpose road trip! Hopefully I'll get over feeling guilty about not working this summer and using a lot of gas.
One and a half more weeks left of full-time employment and taking the GREs until I officially take a break from being responsible!!
Canton, CT
Luzerne, NY
Ithaca, NY
Pleasant Prairie, WI
Minneapolis, MN
Rapid City, SD
Salt Lake City, UT
Reno, NV
San Francisco, CA
Los Angeles, CA
San Diego, CA
Las Vegas, NV
The Grand Canyon
Mesa Verde, CO
Santa Fe, NM (on Ilona's birthday)
Carlsbad, NM
Austin, TX
New Orleans, LA
Crestview, FL
Atlanta, GA
Savannah, GA
Charleston, SC
Chevy Chase, MD
Of course we'll also be making stops along the way. If you are reading this and have any suggestions for places to stop and see along the way, feel free to leave a comment!
I'm very excited to site see, make new friends, and visit with old friends and family. On the trip I will also be visiting a lot of grad schools. I think it'll be a great way to get a feel for each different city and school. This is a multi-purpose road trip! Hopefully I'll get over feeling guilty about not working this summer and using a lot of gas.
One and a half more weeks left of full-time employment and taking the GREs until I officially take a break from being responsible!!
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