Day 3 - Show Low, Arizona to Home

Short post today. We were up early and after a quick breakfast loaded the car and hit the road.

Very nice drive again today. The first hour or so gave us the trees we saw yesterday and the Ponderosa Pine reminded us again of Oregon. But it didn't last as we left the world of trees and entered the world of cactus. The last part of the drive was really, really boring. Big cities and traffic are never any fun. But it was a good three days away from home and one we will probably do again.

Day 2 - Scottsdale, Arizona to Show Low, Arizona

Set the alarm for 7:00, but for some reason we were both up at 6:00. After coffee and packing we headed across the street to US Egg for breakfast. We decided to wait for a Starbucks till we got to Payson only a short 78 miles. The entire drive was on highway 87, which is a really good four lane through what we both thought was really scenic. We have never seen so many saguaro cactus. They were everywhere and when they finally gave out the prickly pear started up.

Payson is up about 4,900 feet, so we began to see trees. Very pleasant to see trees again. Not quite Oregon tress, but trees nonetheless. Payson was also our Starbucks fix for the day.

With drinks in hand we headed for our overnight in Show Low. So where did the name Show Low come from? A card game between Cooley and Clark was to determine who would take the 100,000 acre ranch and who would leave town. With no winner in sight Clark said show low and you win. Cooley turned up the deuce of clubs, which is the lowest card in the deck, and Clark left. The Main Street in Show Low is Deuce Of Clubs. There is also a Ace In The Hole Road in town.

But the real reason for going to Show Low was the Trump Store. The only place like it in the country and seen of FOX TV. Everything Trump.

Tomorrow we return home.

Day 1 - Home to Scottsdale, AZ

Up at 6:40 and on the road by 9:00. As usual our first stop was Starbucks for a mocha to share and then I was off taking the long, out of the way route to out first stop. There is an easy way involving maybe 5 turns. Then there is the other way involving at least 35 traffic lights, most of which required a stop.

First stop was the Scottsdale Fashion Square mall, where a few purchases were made and lunch was at best average. Did stop by the store where we bought the espresso machine and inquired about a little problem. Walked out with a handful of spare parts to try out and a phone number to call if the problem persists.

Then it was off to Old Town Scottsdale to window shop. Actually we go in to shop, but I say window shop because we don’t usually buy anything. Barb did leave with one small item, but under $25 doesn’t count for her.

Once a year Barb gets a free night at a Marriott Courtyard. Last year we went to Scottsdale and had enough fun to return this year. Dinner we at the same absolutely great Mexican place. We will be back again next year.

Day 6 - Around South Fork

A long night without much sleep found us downstairs looking for coffee. Well, I was looking for coffee. Barb was still recovering and wasn’t quite ready to test food or drink.

Late morning four of us, Barb not ready to travel, headed North on highway 149, known as the Silver Thread Highway, to Creede, CO. An old silver mining town, it is the only town in Mineral County. The highway pretty much follows the Rio Grande river after it turns North in South Fork. The town of Creede and the Silver Thread were where the movie The Lone Ranger with Johnny Depp was filmed.

There are four things that interest me there. San Juan Sports, Rio Grande Angler fly shop, Tomkins True Value and Creede Olive Oil Company. San Juan Sports for outdoor clothing and equipment, Rio Grande Angler for fly fishing stuff, Tomkins to explore an old time hardware store and Creede Olive Oil for a salsa I really like. Left town with a new fly box and a bottle of salsa.

Back in South Fork we stopped at the Rainbow Market, which is one of those small town stores that carries everything a small town needs. Food, clothing, household items, hunting and fishing it’s all there.

A short drive into Del Norte took us to Three Barrel Brewing for some really good pizza and beer. Then it was back to the deck at Franks for adult beverage and conversation till dark.

Tomorrow Al and Ann will head home, while we spend another day with Frank.

Day 5 - Santa Fe, NM to South Fork, CO

Breakfast, car packed and on the road by 8:25. A stop to gas up both cars and we were headed North on 285 to Alamosa, CO. Northern New Mexico was a pretty drive and the roads were good without much traffic. Entering Colorado there is a sign that reads “Welcome to Colorful Colorado”. Basically the “Colors” are various shades of tan.

First stop in Alamosa was a liquor store and then Safeway to pick up a few items for the night’s dinner. What luck, Safeway had a Starbucks.

An hour later we arrived at Frank’s home in South Fork. And is it a home. Beautiful big log home, with the Rio Grande river only a few feet away. Frank was very gracious to let us bring Al and Ann along with us from Santa Fe. The afternoon was filled with conversation and adult beverage out on the deck. So relaxing to just sit and watch the river go by.

Three others joined us for dinner and Barb drew BBQ duty doing burgers for all. Great time well into the evening. Unfortunently Barb picked up some sort of bug and was up most of the night, as was I.

Tomorrow we will take a drive up to Creede, CO.

Dat 4 - Around Santa Fe

Slept in a little and then met Al and Ann for breakfast. Then it was a short walk up to Starbucks and four of their best.

A little window shopping around the mall resulted in no purchases, although there were several close calls. We did a wa;k through the Loretta Chapel for a look at the mysterious staircase. Mysterious because no one can figured how it stands up. Later Barb and Ann got haircuts, followed by a little more walking around and shopping.

Dinner was at L’Olivier and it was excellent. And that ended what seemed like very short day. Tomorrow we are off to Colorado.

Day 3 - Around Santa Fe, NM

Up around 6:30 and down for breakfast about 7:30. When in Santa Fe we always stay at the Inn of the Governors, mostly because we can park and walk to the Plaza, shopping and restaurants. Of course it doesn’t hurt that they host sherry and tea in the afternoon, along with a very good free breakfast and a $15 credit everyday at the bar.

Our friends were just getting up so after breakfast we walked up near the Plaza for one of Starbucks’s finest. Shortly thereafter Al and Ann joined us for shopping, which included earrings for Ann and hummingbird soap dish for Barb. Ann and Barb struck out on their own while Al and I hung out at the hotel. After the girls returned we had a very good lunch at L’Oliver. Barb and I split the fish and chips, which were probably the best we have ever had.

On the was back to the hotel we couldn’t pass up the Gruet Winery tasting room. And taste we did. Five sparkling wines later we made our purchases. Back at the hotel it was time to rest up for sherry and tea and then dinner at La Fonda. If you need a good dinner in Santa Fe La Fonda should be high on your list.

Took a little walk after dinner and made notes on places to visit tomorrow. I think Barb has picked out a pair of earrings, but we shall see tomorrow when the shop opens. Tomorrow will be our last day in Santa Fe and then its off to South Fork, Colorado.

Day 2 - Gallup, NM to Santa Fe, NM

Another day we didn’t need to get up early, but we did anyway. Left at 6:28 for a quick breakfast at McDonald’s and then it was off to WalMart to get one of those little cube things that are essential if you want to charge your iPhone of iPad. Finally on Interstate 40 at 7:38 headed East through a very scenic red rock part of New Mexico.

Old Spanish towns like Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos have a Plaza, which is a one square block park. One one side of the Plaza was the old Spanish government building. The Plaza and surrounding area have become the towns Old Town, which is home to restaurants, Southwest shops and Indians sitting in front to the government buildings selling some very nice silver jewelry. Since we both like Southwest and Indian art passing up an Old Town is just not done. So it was that our first stop of the day was in Old Town Albuquerque.

After missing a turn or two, but never claiming to be lost, we found a $5 parking spot just off the Plaza. Wandered around for an hour or so , passing up several things we should have bought but didn’t. Stopped for lunch at a place I dont remember the name of and shared a very good burrito.

Headed North on Interstate 25 for about an hour to Santa Fe and the Inn of the Governors. With our room not ready we took a walk to the nearby Wells Fargo to recharge. While heading back to the hotel the dark skies opened up and dropped a massive amount of rain. By the time we got to our room we were both drenched. A quick shower and a couple of room service beers we were feeling a lot better.

Later we met up with AL and Ann for a drink and then it was off to The Shed for a great meal. Highly rated restaurant. By the time we left the wait time was an hour.

Tomorrow we will show our friends Santa Fe, stop for a adult beverage occasionally and have dinner at La Fonda.

Day 1 - Home to Gallup, NM

In no particularly hurry today we were up at our regular 5:30 time. Why can’t we sleep in for once? Coffee out on the patio followed by cold cereal and after loading up the car we were on the road at 7:13. 12.2 miles later we were back at the house picking up my iPhone, wind breakers and two umbrellas.

Now back on the road at 7:34 we took the 303 Loop to Interstate 17 North, stopping an hour later in Anthem, Arizona for a couple of Starbuck’s finest. Holiday traffic, the usual number of trucks and lane closures kept the drive interesting. Once the drive is about 4,000 feet the scenery is much better. Nothing wrong with saguaro cactus mind you, but after 35,000 or so it’s time to move on. Elevation is a key to scenic change In Arizona and at about 4,000 trees start to appear. Real trees. Like Pondorosa Pines and maybe a few Douglas Firs. Almost like heading over Mount Hood back in Oregon.

At Flagstaff we headed East on Interstate 40 to our overnight stay in Gallup. At this point the trees ended and there weren’t even any saguaros. Bummer. There is one odd thing I noticed about this area. It appears that when people get tired of their single wide mobile home they just up and leave it. No kidding, there are dozens of them in various states of decay along the Interstate.

Our plan, and we all know what happens to plans, was to do a little shopping in Gallup before checking to our hotel. First stop was to be Ortega’s, one of our favorite stores in Santa Fe and Scottsdale. Closed for remodel, visit us down the road. We couldn’t find down the road. So it was off to Perry Null Trading. Closed. Most of the Indian trading stores must close for the holiday. We did manage to stop at two places, but escaped with wallet intact.

After checking in I begin to write up the blog while Barb searches the internet for our source of dinner. Ok, Barb found a place that was open on the holiday and as we are walking to the car we notice an Applebee’s next to the hotel. Do we want to drive or walk. Walk won, so we each had a bowl of soup and salad. Very healthy.

Tomorrow we head to Santa Fe to meet Al and Ann for a three night stay, but first we will stop in Albuquerque for a little shopping and lunch.

381 miles today.

Day 3 - Winslow, AZ to home

Up early at 6:00 to another change of plans. Originally the trip home was to be through Payson, Arizona, a route we haven't been on before. But with the rain storms it we decided to take the easier way on Interstate 40 and 17.

Breakfast at the hotel was again excellent. Before leaving town we stopped at the "Standing on the corner in Winslow, Arizona" intersection (Old Highway 66 and N Kinsley Ave) long enough to snap a photo of Barb with the statue of the guy standing on the corner. Then it was west on the Interstate to exit 204, where we drove about 7 miles on Historic Route 66. That was enough Highway 66 for the day, so we hit a Starbucks in Flagstaff for a mocha to share.

Uneventful drive south on 17, except for a semi tractor burned up on one of the offramps. Fire trucks were still there, so it was recent. Nice two nights away from home. Great hotel and restaurant.

Barb Standing on the CornerClick the photo

Day 2 - Around Winslow and Holbrook, AZ

Today had a plan. Then it didn’t have a plan. Then it had a sorta modified plan.

Waking about 6:00 and peeking out the window revealed a very dark sky and the weather app showed big storm moving our way from the south. While waiting to see if the sky would fall we had breakfast at the hotel. Excellent. The spicy green chili breakfast potatoes are better than excellent.

After eating we made a quick dash to the car in light rain to retrieve our jackets. Then it was back to the room again still waiting for the storm. No heavy rain, but lots of thunder and lightning. Eventually we lost some lights, TV and WiFi. Since there was nothing in the way of serious rain we decided to venture out.

My original plan was to drive through the painted desert and petrified forest before heading to Show Low (yes, that’s a town) for lunch and then back to Winslow through Snow Flake (another town). But with the weather that plan went out the window. After finding a coffee we headed east on Interstate 40 for a short drive. Several times the “should we go any further” question came up and without a real answer either way we kept going.

Eventually I passed the exit for the painted desert and had to backtrack several miles. A quick rest stop at the visitor center and the Golden Age pass got us a free ride through the National Park. After another short discussion we decided to continue on through the petrified forest and then head back to Winslow.

So, we got the desert and forest and missed Show Low and Snow Flake. I call that a modified plan.

After a thorough review of all restaurants in Winslow we decided on returning to The Turquoise Room. Great decision. And we requested Joni from last night as our server. Another great decision.

Tomorrow we head back home.

Painted Desert Near Holbrook, Arizona
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Day 1 - Home to Winslow, AZ

Short drive today, so we didn’t leave the house till 8:06. After stopping for gas and Starbucks we were headed north on I 17. Rather than follow 17 all the way to Flagstaff we took the highway to Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon.

At one time, about 20+ years ago, Sedona was a sleeply little town, which we enjoyed visiting. Now it’s not even close to what we once enjoyed. So we just drove straight through. On the other hand, Oak Creek Canyon is still a nice drive, especially the multiple hairpin turns as the road climbs nearly 4,000 feet.

The road up the canyon ends at Flagstaff and since it was noon we decided to find a pub lunch and there began the 20 minute adventure of missing turns and backtracking mixed with a liberal dose frustration and both of us needing a rest stop. Well, we finally found the Beaver Street Brewery, where we we split a great burger. And the beers weren’t too bad either.

Leaving Flagstaff we headed east on Interstate 40. My plan was to stop at Meteor Crater National Landmark. On Google Earth is looked like a very large hole in the ground that would be worth seeing. Barb just shook her head in disbelief. Admission for a senior was $14 each, so we just drove 6 miles back to the Interstate and headed for Winslow.

My first impression of Winslow was I wanted to have the concession for selling plywood used to board up windows. Financial worries would be a thing of the past. Ok, I’m going to move on and find a second impression.

We are spending the next two nights at La Posada Hotel and it’s a great second impression. La Posada is a railroad hotel and is one of many Mary Colter designed hotels and restaurants along the route of the Santa Fe railroad. You walk into the hotel and you walk back in time. It is truly a masterpiece. Interesting thing about the hotel is the people that have stayed there. The list includes Albert Einstein, Jimmy Stewart, Carol Lombard, John Wayne, Hopalong Cassidy, Betty Grable and dozens more. Our room is the one Bob Hope stayed in.

Dinner was as at the hotel’s Turquoise Room and was excellent. Our server was outstanding and very knowledgeable. We will see her again tomorrow night and recommend her to friends who will be staying there in September. We had a great bottle of Oregon wine, which was finished off back on the deck off our room.

Tomorrow is up for grabs. I had some plans, but Barb may want to go shopping.

Click the photo
Red Rocks near Sedona, Arizona

Day 18 - Las Vegas, NV to Home

Trying to beat the traffic out of Las Vegas we were up at 5:50 and out the door by 6:20. A quick stop at Einstein's Brothers for a bagels and we were on our way.

We didn't beat the traffic. And there was construction. And people drive really fast. And I just don't like driving those conditions any more. Soon enough we crossed the Colorado River and were once again by in Arizona. Scenic drive? No. Highway 93 into Kingman, Arizona is not particularly scenic.

A Starbucks in Kingman was our first rest stop and included a pair of drinks.

The rest of the drive on Interstate 40 and highways 93 and 60 went without incident. I did not that the town of Nothing hadn't change in the last 18 days. It was over 100 degrees when we got home, so the first item of business was to turn the air conditioning down off 80 degrees.

Turned out to be a nice trip. Got to see some old friends and tall trees.

Day 17 - Carson City, NV to Las Vegas, NV

We wanted an early start and got one with the alarm set for 5:15 and out of the parking lot at 6:06. First stop was for breakfast and we learned early on there just isn’t much open at that time for the day. Villa Basque was open and we were the first one there. Good breakfast. Too much food, but I might go back again.

Headed east on highway 50 to catch the Ramsey Weeks Cutoff. On the way we passed through the town of Mound House, home to the Kit Kat Ranch and Bunny Ranch.

Smoke was bad most of the day, clearing only when we neared Las Vegas. A variety of signs in the rural areas warned of cattle, horses, horses with riders, mountain goats and mules on the roadway. Our only sighting was mules.

Traffic was light most of the day, allowing speeds around the legal limit of 70. Passing again through Tonopah, Barb once again emphasized we would never go this way again.

The very small town of Mina has the Wild Kat Ranch. This ranch thing is pretty popular.

Checked into our hotel around 2:45 and a hour later headed out to Macaroni Grill for an excellent dinner and the wait staff tonight was so much better than last night.

Tomorrow is about four and a half hour drive home. 430.4 miles today.

Day 15 and 16 Redmond, OR and drive to Reno, NV

Yesterday, our last day in Redmond, the four of us started with Screwdrivers and followed with the last of the Eagle Bakery cinnamon rolls. Good way to start any day.

Barb and I then headed into Bend for a little shopping. First stop was a restaurant supply place to pick up gloves Barb likes to wear during food preparation. The last stop was McMenamins St. Francis School to purchase two more four packs of beer (one Ruby and one Hammerhead) to go with our earlier purchases.

Lunch was down in the wine cellar with left over pizza (from last night) and wine. Pretty cool place for lunch. Dinner was was at E BarGrill, where Neal and I had our favorite meat loaf.

The evening was a comedy hour with old Dean Martin videos. Tomorrow we start heading back home. Sorry out visit in Redmond was so short.

44.2 miles around Redmond and Bend

Today we were up at 5:30 getting everything packed up. A quick breakfast of coffee and toast, not so quick good byes and we were off at 7:22. We stopped in Redmond for a pair of Starbucks and later in La Pine for a breakfast sandwich each.

The debate over what route to take ended when we took highway 31, which would take 5 minutes longer but miss a lot of traffic on highway 97. Nearing Fort Rock we started getting smoke and the further we went to more smoke we got. I suspect that it was coming our way from the California fires.

Lunch was a quick sandwich in Alturas and later we would drive through Reno at rush hour. Don’t like that kind of traffic. First on the To Do list was find one of those spray it yourself car wash. Somewhere around Silver Lake we ran into a flock of grasshoppers. At least I think they were grasshoppers. About and inch and a half long they made quite a thump when hitting the car. It wasn’t till our first rest stop that we saw the mess they had made of the front of the car. Since the attack had taken place early in the day they had become firmly attached, but we managed to get them off with $1.50 worth of high pressure spray.

For dinner we split cheese ravioli at an unnamed restaurant, where the service was so bad I had a little chat with the manager.

Tomorrow we are off to Las Vegas for our last night on the road.

458 miles Redmond to Carson City

Day 14 - Around Redmond, OR

Short post today.

The best thing about bringing Eagle Bakery cinnamon rolls to Neal and Phyllis is having them share with your. First, of course, you must have a Screwdriver out on the deck. Only then do you get your roll.

Most of the morning was spent catching up with our hosts and then it was off to The View Tap & Grill for lunch. Located at Juniper Golf Course, we had a table outside overlooking the ninth and eighteenth greens. Pretty nice with the mountains in the background, though not much snow was remaining.

After lunch we spent some time driving around Redmond and Eagle Crest taking in all the changes. We’ve only been gone a year and there is so much new building. I guess we will see that every year when we visit.

Had a really nice evening with old friends. Phyl had invited over three couples we had known for years for drinks and pizza. Much was talked about and many invitations for winter visits to Arizona were handed out. Great time.

Tomorrow Barb and I have a little shopping to do in Bend and we do need to start packing up for the trip home.

Day 13 - Madras, OR to Redmond, OR

The best thing about Madras is the Eagle Bakery. They have the very best cinnamon rolls ever. When we lived in Redmond we, and many others, would make the 40 minute drive on Friday or Saturday to buy a package or two. And since today is Saturday we waited around till 8:00 to pick up a couple for Neil and Phyllis. That accomplished we headed out for the short drive to Eagle Crest.

I like this drive in the farmland between Madras and Redmond. For one thing, the farmers put signs along the road to tell you what’s growing in the field. Today we saw hybrid carrot seed, wheat, alfalfa and some corn. Then there is the hawks. It seems like there is a hawk on every tenth telephone pole searching the surrounding field for breakfast.

Once into Redmond we stopped at Original Pancake House for breakfast, stopped at Wet Willie’s to have 12 days worth of bugs removed from the car and stopped at Fred Meyer to replaced Barb’s broken watch band. Only then could we head to Eagle Crest for a three night stay.

Lunch was at Silver Leaf, a little sandwich place at EC, followed in the evening by a very good dinner at Aspens Lakes. All in all a great day with old friends.

40.1 miles today. Tomorrow we will get together with other friends from the past.

Day 12 - Long Beach, WA to Madras, OR

So the day started pretty much as planned. English muffin and orange juice and then a load of wash started. Decided we would head into town and get a coffee before getting ready to leave tomorrow. Heading back to the house Barb happened to take a look at the rental agreement and found we were to be out today by 11:00. Well that certainly changed the plan for today.

After a quick drive back to the house Barb started on the laundry while I started cleaning up around the house. As soon as the clothes were out of the dryer we finished the packing and started loading the car. A last walk around the house and the key in the lockbox we were on the road with 4 minutes to spare. Lunch was at Subway in Clatskanie. No oysters. After crossing from Washington to Oregon at Astoria we crossed back to Washington at Longview and then back to Oregon near Portland. Carry, no carry, carry, no carry. You may know what that means.

We were supposed to be at a friends on Saturday, but rather than show up early Barb got us a motel in Madras. After checking in we crossed the street to have a very good Mexican dinner. No oysters.

Tomorrow we plan, once again, to get to Redmond for three nights with old friends.

237.7 miles today.

Day 11 - Around Long View, WA and Astoria, OR

Up at 8:00 and another English muffin and orange juice for breakfast. I’m almost hungry for cereal.

Back across to Astoria real found a real Starbucks and then made a quick stop at Fred Meyer. Took a little drive around Astoria and it was time for the Buoy to open. Yup, I’m going back for another lunch of their oysters. Th jury is now back and these are the best oysters I have ever had.

Back at the house Barb researched on where to go for dinner while I did a little reading. Barb’s research resulted in a trip to the Castaway Seafood Grille where the claim to fame is the 2017 award for best clam chowder. So we tried a couple of bowls and it was pretty darn good. Could have been a little thicker, but had more clams than one usually finds. May try it for lunch tomorrow.

Tomorrow will be mostly a housekeeping day. Laundry, packing and cleaning out the car are at the top of the list for out drive to Redmond, Oregon.

Ships waiting to load at Port of Astoria Click the photo

4.1 mile bridge from Astoria to Washington
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Day 10 - Around Long Beach, WA and Astoria, OR

Slept into 8:30. Nice. English muffin and half a morning glory muffin for breakfast and then off to Astoria.

First stop was in Warrington and Fred Meyer for a couple of items and a Starbucks. Then a drive south to Seaside, which was nothing but traffic and directions to a Wells Fargo that no longer exists. Discouraged we turned around and found a Wells Fargo’s in Astoria. Simple request for a printout of the last 10 days required a banker, who were of course all busy. Not at all the level of customer service I expect.

Son Jeff recommended the Buoy for lunch and it was a real winner. Great table right on the Columbia River. Ordered their Buoy Oysters. These are pan-fried Willapa Bay oysters, with jalapeño jelly and a goat cheese pearl. Probably the best oysters I have ever had. I’m seriously thinking about going back tomorrow just for another order.

Weather here today in a cool 59 degrees, with a little fog blowing in occasionally. At 2:32 it was 114 degrees at home.

In the afternoon we took a walk down to the beach expecting to see the ocean. It was gone. Apparently we were witnessing a very, very low tide. The ocean was so far out we could barely see it. Not inclined to walk that far we returned to the house. Later we drove over to the restaurant at the local golf course for fish and chips.

Tomorrow Barb wants to hit the local COSTCO and I still need to find a Wells Fargo. I’ll probably try to find a reason to have another oyster lunch.

Click the photo

Day 9 - Around Long Beach, WA

Slept in till 8:00, so it must not be a driving day. We are here at the coast for five days and driving will be local. And our stay is free courtesy of our son Jeff and his wife Anita, who are letting us use their rental.

58 degrees here this morning, going to a high of 61. Yesterday at home it was 115. Think we will enjoy this cooler weather while we can.

With no Starbucks on the peninsula we had to go looking for coffee. Not a problem, there are many of the little coffee carts around. With a hot drink in had we headed north to Oysterville. If you want to see piles of oyster shells this is the place. And not just any shells. These are Willapa Oysters and they rank pretty high on my list of favorites. In fact, many will wind up on my dinner plate this week. Oysterville is also home to a number of homes dating from the late 1890’s, which are still well cared for and lived in.

Next up we took the mandatory tourist walk on the main drag through Long Beach to check all the t-shirts, sweat shirts, hats and other paraphernalia that shout out “I’ve been to Long Beach, Washington.” For lunch we stopped at the local golf course and split a really good turkey sandwich.

The afternoon was spent back at the house with a nap mixed in from time to time. We headed into Seaview for dinner at The Depot. Barb had a shrimp dish, while I had pan fried oysters. Very good.

Tomorrow we will probably cross over the Columbia River to spend a little time exploring Astoria, Oregon.

Day 8 - Portland Ludlow, WA to Long Beach, WA

Changing location day, so we were on the road at 7:48 after a muffin and coffee. To bad we were on the wrong road. It occurred to me after about 15 minutes we should be heading southwest rather than east. Turned out to be a disagreement between Google Maps on my phone and the GPS in the car. Phone won and soon we were back on course.

Pretty easy drive today, except Barb wasn’t too happy with all the two lane roads and a curves. Along the way we passed through Quilcene (known for oysters), Dosewallips, Hama Hama (not a typo), Skokomish, Liliwaup and Kamilche. None of these made it through spell check. Skokomish is home to the Lucky Dog casino and today I took them for a grand total of $4.75. Hey, what are you laughing about, I left a winner!

Arriving in Ilwaco about lunch time we headed Ole Bob’s Galley Café and Seafood market for a bowl each of claim chowder and a shared fish and chips. And an IPA. Next we walked a block to Jessie’s Ilwaco Fish Company and picked up a pair of Dungeness crabs for dinner. Next came a bottle of wine and a lofe of bread to go with the crabs.

The rest of the afternoon was spent moving into and settling into our son’s beach house in Long Beach, Washington. Looking forward to five days of R & R at the coast.

204.1 miles today.

Day 7 - Around Port Ludlow, WA

Left the hotel at 7:23 and headed to the crossroads of Chimacum for breakfast at the Chimacum Café. Good meal. As for the price, we have come to the conclusion that everything is expensive here. Probably the isolation.

Getting a little bored back at the hotel we took off for Port Hadlock and the QFC for a Starbucks. An attempt to find Fort Flagler, another coast artillery installation, failed miserably. Surrounded by water on three sides and with only one road leading to it, this should have been an easy find.

So, it was back to the hotel waiting to visit our friends early afternoon.

Spent the rest our last day in Port Ludlow with friends Steve and Sally. What a great time. Too bad we live so far apart, because we really enjoy our time with them. Great afternoon sitting out on the deck watching for eagles and enjoying different wines. After dinner the evening passed too quickly and we had to make our way back to the hotel to pack up for our drive tomorrow.

No crosses today and only 58.3 miles.

Day 6 - Around Port Ludlow, WA

Started the day with breakfast at the Resort. Very good, but we will explore elsewhere tomorrow.

The plan was to head to Port Townsend and explore Fort Worden. This fort, along with Fort Casey, was built to discourage enemy ships from reaching Seattle. Fort Casey is really cool, Fort Worden is not. Most, if not all, of the officer’s quarters have been turned into rentals (read hotel) and various businesses seem to occupy other building. We couldn’t find any of the old gun mounts, which are really fun to explore. Big concrete bunkers with dark passages leading to ammunition storage rooms. Bring a flashlight. This was supposedly where An Officer and a Gentlemen was filmed, but you couldn’t proved it by me.

A Starbucks helped ease the disappointment. With nothing to do we decided to take a drive out to Port Angeles. Bad move. Saturday traffic heading out to the Olympic Peninsula was miles of one car after another. Finally found a break in the oncoming traffic and made a probably illegal u-turn.

Afternoon was spent with friends and then the four of us headed out for a good fish dinner. Tomorrow is another day around Port Ludlow and packing up for the next drive.

Zero crosses and 105.3 miles today.

Inn at Port Ludlow
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Day 5 - Portland, OR to Port Ludlow, WA

Up early and after a quick breakfast at the motel we headed north on I 205 toward Washington, for what would be a pretty much uneventful drive.

First stop was at a Fred Meyer in Tumwater for gas and a walk about. Washington must have some pretty strict regulations on gas pumps. The giant size nozzle didn’t want to mate with the car’s filler, which left me only a few gallons before giving up.

Next up was a stop at the McMenamins Spar Club in Olympia for an early lunch. The turkey sandwich is the best around. We picked to a mixed case of Ruby, Terminator and Hammerhead for later consumption and the coast. Then it was on to Port Ludlow for a three days visit with some very good friends from our Redmond days. They are building a new home, so we are staying at the Port Ludlow Resort. Pretty nice corner room with a view of the water, fire place and jetted tub.

After checking in we headed over to Steve and Sally’s to see their new place. Great setting. Right on the Hood Canal, with views of missile subs leaving Bangor and cruise chips leaving Seattle. You always know you will get a excellent meal at Sally’s and tonight was no exception, starting with a great Dungeness crab and shrimp cocktail and followed by clam chowder. We spent the entire afternoon and early evening out on the deck before heading back to the Resort.

Tomorrow we will head over to Port Townsend before visiting friends again. Four crosses today.

Day 4 - Around Portland, OR

Today started late at 8:07 with breakfast at Elmer’s. First real breakfast so far. Then it was off to Fred Meyer’s to buy flowers. At Willamette National Cemetery we place the flowers at Barb’s parents and one of her uncle’s graves. Nice place. Hopefully someday it will be our resting place.

A little time shopping at the local mall and than a long drive in the country. Then back to the motel to clean up before dinner. Brushing one’s teeth with bottled water is a pain. Head off will here about this.

Anniversary (30 years) dinner was at McCormick and Schmick’s, courtesy of three years worth of gift cards from Jeff and Anita. Thanks guys!

Back at the motel we found the water back on. We also found the closet, which was hiding behind a drape by the window. I bet we are not the first to hunt this down.

Tomorrow we are off to visit friends in Port Ludlow, Washington.

Day 3 - Hines, OR to Portland, OR

Left the motel at 5:56. Stopped at McDonald’s for a breakfast sandwich and back on the road at 6:20. Were we in a hurry to get out of town? Yes. Once on the road it was decided we would never again travel to Oregon through Tonopah and Hines. Never.

The drive across central Oregon was better than remembered. Many times in the past I thought it boring, however seeing something besides desert was a real plus. And then there was the traffic, of which there was practically none.

AAA showed us a shortcut that in took us to Prineville and Madres, therefore avoiding Bend and Redmond. Thanks AAA.

We were surprised by the lack of snow on the mountains, especially Mount Hood. But even without much snow the mountains and tall trees were a real plus. Cactus just don’t get that tall.

Our motel turned to be number three on our list of don’t stay in again. Since we are staying two nights does that count as number four too? It seems like when you make a reservation they should tell you the remodel requires the water to be turned off between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm. Never had a motel without some sort of closet, but we have looked everywhere and can’t find one.

High point of the day for Barb was a visit with her great grandson Julian.Cute kid, and that’s going a long way for me.

For dinner we shared cheese ravioli at Olive Garden. Tomorrow we spend in Portland. Five crosses today.

Day 2 - Tonopah, NV to Hines, OR

Not at all happy with our stay in Tonopah we were on the road at 6:25 looking for coffee. The coffee shop we saw while driving into town yesterday had disappeared overnight. No clue where it went.

Today was interesting road wise. Between Tonopah and Hines we would travel on ten different numbered roads and most were in very lonely country. After highway 6 and 376 we were told by the lady in the GPS to turn left on The Loneliest Road In America. Yes, she really said that and it’s true. That’s how US Highway 50 in Nevada is known. After that is was 305 (said by some to be lonelier than The Loneliest), 80, 289, 795, 95, 778 and 20.

Lunch was in Winnemucca. In a effort to get back on the road I passed up making a contribution at Winners. Unlike the past, I sure I would have been a winner this time. Well maybe.

Overall the roads were an easy drive today. Most of Nevada’s two lane back roads are signed for 70 MPH and the lack of traffic made passing (and being passed) a rare event. Oregon started at 70 for a few mile, but then dropped to 65 and eventually to 55. Bummer.

Oregon is one of two states that doesn’t allow drivers to pump gas. Must be done be a highly trained attendant. However drivers are now allowed to pump their own in small markets, which is just about all of Eastern Oregon.

Four crosses today. Maybe the lack of cars on the road has something to do with that, even with the higher speeds. I don’t remember dinner, which is not a good sign for either the restaurant or me.

483.4 miles and 29.9 MPG today

Day 1 - Home to Tonopah, NV

Well, for our first trip in a long time we were out of the house and on our way at 7:16. Within the first mile Barb suggested I find a Starbucks. Since today is our 30 year anniversary I made the 16 minute detour.

The drive today started on US 93 taking us through Wickenburg, Nothing (yes a town named Nothing), Wikieup and Kingman. Twelve crosses along the right side of the road marking fatalities. No idea what the left side held. Scenery consisted of mountains, Saguaro Cactus and Joshua Trees. The road between Wickenburg and Interstate 40 is designated to become 11 Corridor. Not sure what that means, but whatever it means it has a long way to go. Continuing on 93 to Las Vegas added a single cross on the right. Las Vegas was a lunch stop at Firehouse Subs. These subs are outstanding and have become our goto sub.

Traffic wasn’t too bad through town, with a little construction on the North side. US 95 took us the rest of the way to our overnight in Tonopah, Nevada. I know, Barb isn’t too happy about spending our anniversary in a Best Western in Tonopah. We pretty much decided never to take this route North in the future and the dinner cemented the deal.

Tomorrow we head out for an overnight in Hines, Oregon. I’m afraid the drive will be more of the same.

497.3 miles and 29.7 MPG today.

Day 2 - Headed Back

Not sure what the weather would be today we slept in till a little after eight. After packing up and checking out we stepped outside to a bright sunny day. Only problem was it was 22 degrees. Having lived in Arizona for the last seven months we just are not familiar with kind of cold in winter anymore.

A short drive later we stopped for breakfast at Cracker Barrel, where we lingered hoping it would warm up a little. And a little was all we got. The rest of the day was uneventful. The highlight of the drive was on Interstate 17 when Barb spotted the first Saguaro cactus. I usually win this little contest we have, but today she got the better of me.

We should be disappointed about the way the trip turned out or didn't turn out. But the cold weather would have put a damper on the outdoor exploring, so we will try again when it's warmer.

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Day 1 - Headed Out

The day started off with great promise. For several weeks I have been planning a short trip as a surprise for Barb. While looking around on Google Earth I discovered an old, but remodeled, railroad hotel in Winslow, Arizona. Check it out at WWW.laposada.org.

Pretty excited about finally getting away we were on the road at 8:15. The plan was to spend some time in Sedona and then overnight in Flagstaff. I began checking the weather on-line before we left and saw the winter advisory for snow, rain and wind around Flagstaff. Not wanting to let a little thing like that spoil the fun we headed north on I17. Three hours later we were in Sedona having a couple bowls of chili for lunch.

By this time Barb was getting a little worried about the weather. Ok, she was getting very, very worried about the weather. I had already explained that I couldn’t cancel in Winslow without losing $300, when the phone rang and it was a lady from the hotel confirming our reservation the next day. I told we were considering heading home because of the weather and low she said no problem, no charge. Another phone call and we were cancelled in Flagstaff.

Now what to do. Not wanting to head home we decided to spend the night in Prescott Valley. After Barb got us a reservation she checked the weather there and saw it was snowing. I made her a deal. We would head toward Prescott Valley and if the snow was bad we would go home. Well, got to the hotel with only tiny flakes.

Dinner was Gabby’s Grill. I’ve had a long association with Black Butte Porter (brewed in Bend, Oregon) and was surprised to find it on the menu in Prescott Valley, Arizona. I was even more surprised to find it served in a glass with the Deschutes Brewery logo. We both had a sandwich and are now back at the motel. Wind chill when we left the restaurant was 21 degrees. Barb says we will never live again where its cold. I agree.

Well, the day didn’t turnout as planned, but we both agree it was still pretty good. We will make this trip sometime in May, when the weather is better. Tomorrow we will head back to Festival.

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