Day 22 - Cedar City, Utah to Home

Always up early on the day we will get home and today was no exception. Decided to skip breakfast in Cedar City in hopes of finding something down the road. Fifty-two miles later we were sitting comfortably at a Cracker Barrel (is there a better place for breakfast?) in St. George, Utah.

Back on the road, we had light traffic going through Las Vegas and then we were back in the desert. After some very scenic days, we were stuck with 254 or so miles of pretty much nothing to see. Oh, there were mountains and of course we waited with great anticipation for the first Saguaro cactus.

So enough we were home and it was nice to be back. Long driving trips are fun, but sometimes enough is enough. We had a lot of fun with family and friends and that made it all worthwhile.

Day 21 - Twin Falls, Idaho to Cedar City, Utah

Thinking today would be a long drive we were up at 5:45, walking into Chick-Fil-A at 6:30 when they opened and on the road at 7:05. Turns out miles go by pretty quick when the speed limit is 80 miles per hour. It was 80 all the way except for 60 or so miles around Salt Lake City where construction dropped the speed limit to 70 or 75. I can tell you 75 through construction is not my idea of fun.

Pretty much a nice drive today, except between Ogden and Provo. All the little towns I remember from when I was going to college in Salt Lake City in the early 60’s have now seemed to have merged into one. Heavy traffic and construction just aren’t my cup of tea. Did get a peek-a-boo look at The Great Salt Lake and the state capital from the Interstate. Wasatch Mountains are still impressive and there was still a hint of snow in some places.

Didn’t see one roadside cross in Utah. However, there were a number of signs along the highway reminding drivers that 62 have died on Utah highways this summer. I suppose passengers would be interested in that information too.

Corn held on to the top spot today, with hay surging ahead to take Silver. Bronze went to rain, which cleaned bugs off the windshield several times.

Lunchtime found us spending much too much time in Provo looking for Firehouse Subs. Construction once again reared its ugly head both arriving and leaving the world’s best sub. Dinner was a chicken and shrimp fajitas, along with a fairly decent IPA.

Well, this is our last night on the road. The close of Day 22 will find us back in our own home and once again sleeping in our own bed.

As of close of business today we have added 3680.7 miles to our trusty Ford, dispelling that nasty Fix Or Repair Daily rumor.

Day 20 - Redmond, Oregon to Twin Falls, Idaho

Well, this is embarrassing. After 19 days of posting, I just discovered my new improved way of daily posting doesn’t work. I like the way of keeping all of a single trip in one overall post, but new posts should go at the top rather than the end. Just doesn’t make sense to scroll all the way to the bottom for the recent post. So, as of today new posts will go at the top where they belong. I will have to rearrange the first 19 after I get home. So, with that out of the way...

Needing an early start, we were up a 5:45, having coffee and toast at 6:40 and driving off at precisely 7:00. Sad to keep leaving friends. First Jeff and Anita, then Steve and Sally and now Neal and Phyllis. But we will see them all again someday.

No Starbucks today.

I have mentioned several times in the past that Highway 20 across Central and Eastern Oregon offers little in the way of scenic beauty. Today was no exception. I often tell Barb that everything has its own beauty, but Central Oregon continues to challenge that statement.

Along the way on Highway 20 we passed through town of Brothers, which has the only one room school in Oregon. Apparently driving 52 miles one way to the nearest school forced its reopening. Stinking Water Pass and nearby Drinkwater Pass are reminders that not all water is suitable for consumption. After gas in Hines and lunch in Ontario we entered Idaho and the land of the 80 MPH speed limit. 80 seems really fast to me, so I started with the cruise set at 75 and worked my way up to 80.

Top crop award today went to corn. Not sure if was field or sweet, but it was everywhere in Eastern Oregon and Idaho. I’m guessing onions took Silver, with Bronze going to all those I couldn’t identify.

Dinner was chicken fajitas and we spied a Chick-Fil-A, which has absolutely the best biscuits ever, for breakfast tomorrow.

457 miles today is 7 more than my limit, so we will do 472 tomorrow on our way for an overnight in Cedar City, Utah.

So far, we have managed 3203.0 accident-free miles. Looking for just 916 more.

Day 19 - One more day in Redmond, Oregon

Going to start today by saying hello to Steve and Sally up in Port Ludlow. It was a great three days with you guys and yes, we would love to come back for a few days and make more brownies, but it’s time to go home.

Up about the same time to the same great Central Oregon day. Started the day with coffee and then added a cinnamon roll from the Eagle Bakery in Madras. Just about the best cinnamon roll around.

Finished up the packing and loading the car, except for what’s needed tomorrow morning. We are looking at three 8+ hour days to get home, so trying to get stuff done for a 7:00 am departure. The drive be a little longer than usual, because I’m tired of the Las Vegas, Kingman, Wickenburg route. We have done that drive too often and it is boring.

Lunch was at Aspen Lakes Golf Course. We split what had to be in the top five all-time great turkey sandwiches. Turkey, cranberry sauce, lettuce, tomato and bacon. Yes Steve, bacon. Anyone passing through the area would benefit from such a sandwich and I highly recommend the Sinister Black Ale to go with it.

A lazy afternoon of naps and searching the internet for the elusive wine barrel top to make into a lazy Susan will consume all. Later a dinner at Diego’s will cap our culinary adventures for this trip. It will also lead us to making diet notes during the next three days of driving.

Tomorrow we are off to an overnight in Twin Falls, Idaho.

2748.3 miles so far

Day 18 - Around Redmond, Oregon

Around Redmond

Up again to another great Central Oregon day. Sunny, mid to high 80’s and staying with very good friends.

After coffee it was off to Juniper Golf Course for breakfast out on the patio. Always interesting to watch golfers thrashing around in the weeds on the final hole.

After breakfast Barb and I took off to do a little shopping and business at the bank. Commercial kitchen supply place in Bend is the only place Barb and find the kitchen gloves she likes and I picked up another Ace bandage.

Rest of the day was just kinda lazy. Mostly sitting and talking, with very little doing. The evening was spent with four couples for the old neighborhood. Good to catch up with friends.

Tomorrow will be our last day in Redmond and then it’s back to Arizona. I’ve been watching the weather and it looked like it would be under 100 when we got back, but now the forecast is 107 for the day we arrive. Not really looking forward to getting back to those temps.

2748.3 miles so far.

Day 17 - Around Redmond, Oregon

Realized this morning that the clock on the nightstand was an hour behind. So, yesterday when I got up at 6:00 it was really 7:00. No wonder everyone was up having coffee.

Breakfast was at Original Pancake House, which is just about our favorite anywhere in the world. Later Neal drove us around Redmond to see all the changes. So much new housing. Makes me wonder where all these new people came from and what they are doing here in Central Oregon.

Checked out our old house in Eagle Crest. Looks about the same as does the rest of the resort. Speed Humps have been renamed Speed Tables, which I think is a good idea. I never really understood how they came up with Speed Hump.

Dinner was at Moose Sisters in Bend. Excellent meat loaf, something both Neal and I love.

We were surprised to see the amount of hemp being grown along Cline Falls Highway. One field after another. Can’t help but wonder where it’s all going.

Well, that’s it. Seems like a short day, but it was a great day with friends. Tomorrow another day around Redmond.

2712.6 miles so far

Day 16 - Walla Walla, WA to Redmond, OR

Early to bed, early to rise. We found that to be true. Tired last night we were off to bed by 8:00, which means we woke up about 5:00 ready to go. Not wanting to get to Redmond too early our plan was to leave about 9:00. We were about two and a half hours early. Not to worry, just drive slowly.

Starbucks appeared 62 miles down the road in Umatilla and was much welcomed after a motel breakfast of what was called an omelet.

The first half of the drive on Interstate 84 was along the scenic Columbia River. Passed the McNary and John Day dams and what must be a thousand plus wind turbines. Stopped for gas in Biggs and turn South on Highway 97.

Once on 97 the scenery turned to wheat. Lots of wheat and a few small towns. Not quite as scenic as along the river, but still a nice drive.

Redmond had changed little since our visit a year ago. Other than a new coffee cart or two it was pretty much as we had left it. Dinner was with friends Neal and Phyllis at an Italian place that during our time in Redmond had changed hands many times. The Italian version was excellent.

We have three more nights here before heading home, so lots of time to see old friends in the neighborhood.

2712.6 miles so far

Day 15 - Around Walla Walla

Walla Walla

Up at 6:30 to another sunny day. Streets closed for Rodeo/Fair/Parade downtown blocked us from the restaurant Barb had planned for breakfast, so we headed back to the Maple Counter Cafe from yesterday. Very good breakfast. No potatoes today.

The plan for today was three of our favorite wineries and then walking the downtown. Central to the plan was no more wine purchases. We had a case in the car and that was plenty. So much for plans. We managed to get the wineries right, but somehow ended up with seven more bottles. We will work very hard to see that it is consumed responsibly.

Back downtown about 1:30 the barricades were gone and we got our steps in. Took us a couple of hours to work our way through a few shops and then it was time for late lunch/early dinner. The Big House Brew House proved itself capable by providing good beer and good food.

Dropping Jeff and Anita off at their RV, we unloaded their wine said our goodbyes after a fun three days. We won’t see each other again until they come down to Arizona for Spring Training next March.

Tomorrow we head to Redmond for four days with old friends from the neighborhood.

2444.4 miles so far

Day 14 - Walla Walla Wine Tour

Up at 7:00 and ready for a great wine tour. Downstairs for the motel breakfast we found egg white something and decided to strike out on our own. Maple Counter Cafe showed up on the radar and it turned out to be super. More potatoes than anyone could eat, but basted egg, sausage and toast were great.

At 10:45 we, along with Jeff and Anita, were picked up by Gabe from Imbibe Wine to begin our tour. First stop was Dunham Cellars, where we tasted six wines and added four bottles to the case. Up second was Basel Cellars, one of our very favorite, where we tasted six and added two more bottles. Tasting and lunch was at Amavi Cellars. Lunch was outstanding, with a various meats and cheeses, fruit, pickles, grapes, crackers and more. Two more bottles.

Lunch provided by the tour company
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Gifford Harlingen was our fourth stop and after learning all about corks we added another bottle. Valdemare Estates was an unplanned stop, but that didn’t stop use from adding another bottle. Last of our visits was Waterbrook Winery where two bottles filled out the case. All in all, a great day of wine tasting. But what made the day special was our guide Gabe. An outstanding young man born and raised in Walla Walla, who filled us in on a little history during the drives between wineries. By the end of the day we had learned much of his life’s history, including the date he had that night, he was going to cook dinner, with a nurse he had never met in person. He made the day a lot of fun.

For dinner we split a pizza and called it a day.

Tomorrow we will hit a few more wineries and then explore downtown Walla Walla.

2375.7 miles so far

Day 13 - Port Ludlow, Washington to Walla Walla, Washington

Up at 6:30 to finish packing and take most stuff to the car. After coffee and half an English muffin, we just kinda hung out with our hosts. Clearly, we didn’t want to leave. But all good things must come to an end, so off we went.

For those who know me, I do take a wrong turn now and then. Today it was within a couple of miles I suspected we were on the wrong road. A quick check of a real paper map proved me right. This time I try to blame the GPS, which opted for a ferry ride while I wanted the Tacoma Narrows bridge. I short time later I look a left that should have been a right. That one was on me.

Starbucks had to wait till Poulsbo, while Port Orchard provided a Wells Fargo bank and Safeway for band aids and Ace Bandage. Lunch was a split turkey sandwich at the Cottage Cafe and Fireside Lounge in Cle Elum. Excellent place to stop mid-day in Interstate 90. Cle Elum is Indian for Swift Water.

Rest of the drive was uneventful and we are now at our lodging for the next three days.

Tomorrow Jeff and Anita will join use for an escorted wine tour.

2349.7 miles so far

Day 12 - Around Port Ludlow, Washington

Pretty good night’s sleep considering the injuries from yesterday. Up a little after 7:00 for coffee and later a breakfast of really good chocolate croissant. Sally’s is definitely on my list of great places to eat.

Later it was time to change bandages and everything looks good at this point. A little skin missing here and there, but I’ll survive to fight another day. Did a little bit of packing to get a head start on leaving tomorrow. Car is starting to look a little messy and will probably need some attention with we get to Redmond. Car wash and vacuum will do it.

Lunch for us is usually splitting a sandwich. No such thing here. Starters, commonly called and appetizer, was a small bowl of tuna casserole from yesterday’s lunch. That was followed by crab and shrimp enchilada, with jalapeño and sour cream. And of course, a glass of wine.

By the way this is the view off their deck. Hood Canal to the left and Admiralty Inlet to the right.

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Easy afternoon on the deck. Wine and snacks with chat and view. Perfect last day with Steve and Sally.

Dinner was of course another great one with clam chowder and, surprisingly, wine. Going to be a real shame to leave.

Tomorrow we are on or way to Walla Walla, WA to meet up with Jeff and Anita for a little wine tasting.

1990.0 miles so far

Day 11 - Around Port Ludlow, Washington

Well, the day started out great. Good night’s sleep and up at 7:05. Sally worked her magic again and came up with an amazing breakfast of bagels, smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, onion and right out of the garden tomatoes. Perfect start to the day.

Later in the morning Sally, Barb and I decided to take a short walk down the street out front. With a fresh coat of chip seal, it was one nice looking road. Nice looking until I took a full-frontal fall. Multiple cuts on both hands, forearms, knees and forehead left me dazed, but wanting a glass of wine. Two young girls jogging nearby helped Sally and Barb get me to me feet while managing to refill my lungs. Back at the house a next-door nurse assisted and later after a shower and multiple band aids I was back to normal. I will be hurting for a few days, but will press on with the journey.

A late lunch of tuna casserole, a personal favorite, and wine on the deck with Steve made everything right.

Later Steve and Sally’s future neighbors came for dinner, which was, of course, another of Sally’s great meals. Salmon, roasted potatoes and tiramisu all accompanied by a nice selection of wines.

All in all, except for my unplanned visit with the pavement, it was a great day. Always fun to get together with our friends and catchup on our lives.

Tomorrow another day in Port Ludlow.

1990.0 miles so far

Day 10 - Long Beach, Washington to Port Ludlow, Washington

Up early for a travel day and after saying goodbye to son and wife we left for a three day stay with friends in Port Ludlow. Stopped in Long Beach for a breakfast sandwich and then headed to Aberdeen for Starbucks and gas. Hour and a half is a long way to drive for our morning Starbucks fix, but it was the only game in town.

Three-and-a-half-hour drive today, so we were in no rush. Took mostly back roads, so there wasn’t much in the way of traffic and it was nice to drive among tall trees rather than cactus.

Arrived at Steve and Sally’s home a little after noon. Beautiful home they finished building when we were here last year. Great views out onto the Hood Canal and Admiralty Inlet. Submarines, cruise ships and eagles are all part of the view.

Although I’ve been eating Dungeness crab a good part of my life, I’ve never gone crabbing. That ended today. Steve took me out with two friends, one had the boat, to pull crab pots. I was told that since I hadn’t done this before, I would pull pots and clean crab. Did both. Pots sit on the bottom with some sort of bait. Pulling up a pot is just pulling on a line until the pot appears. Sometimes that can be a lot of line. Crabs have claws. Pretty powerful claws, which means one must be very careful when handling them. After cleaning it was into a pot of boiling water for 8 minutes and later into one of Sally's shrimp and crab cocktails.

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Dessert was the World’s Best brownie. Dark fudge, triple chocolate with a hint of espresso. Add ice cream and it’s a perfect way to end a meal and the day.

Tomorrow will be another day in Port Ludlow.

1990.0 miles so far

Day 9 - Around Long Beach, Washington and Astoria, Oregon

Up again about 7:30 to another beautiful Washington coast day. Breakfast today was another of Anita’s specials. This time it was smoked salmon scrambled eggs, with the same pepper jelly and blueberry goat cheese from last night. One great breakfast to start the day.

Around 10:30 we all headed into Astoria for a trip to the Astoria Maritime Museum. Third visit, but still a great two hours of maritime history around Astoria and the Columbia River. After the museum we took a tour inside the lightship Columbia. Pretty interesting the living conditions from decades ago.

Lunch today was at the Buoy Beer Company, right on the Columbia River. Barb had fish and chips, while the three of us had the oyster basket. Eight plump Yaquina Bay oysters fried to perfection. This trip has been perfect for me in the oyster department. Two meals on the half shell, three meals of fried and on breakfast of oysters and scrambled eggs.

Tomorrow we head out for a visit with friends Steve and Sally in Port Ludlow, WA.

1805.4 miles so far

Day 8 - Around Long Beach, Washington

Slept in again and enjoyed every minute of it. Breakfast at the house, with Anita fixing fried eggs, fried tomatoes and toast. Right off the vine tomatoes she brought with her from Nebraska.

Spent the rest of the morning at the Ilwaco Saturday market. Lots of good stuff, but I’m still thinking about that watercolor from yesterday. Lunch was at The Cove, which is in with the Peninsula Golf Course. Clam chowder could have been a little thicker, but still was really good.

Weather at the coast is in the 60’s, which is so much better that the 100’s plus we have been having in Arizona. Hopefully the temps will be down a little by the time we get home.

Dinner tonight was some of Anita’s famous fried oysters, with chili jelly and blueberry goat cheese. I know sounds really weird, but they were delicious. It’s her take on an oyster dish served at the Buoy in Astoria, only Anita’s are much better.

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After dinner Jeff build a great fire outside for the perfect end of the day at the coast.

Tomorrow another day at the coast before heading North.

1755.6 miles so far

Day 7 - Around Long Beach, Washington

Slept into 7:32. Felt good not to have a travel day. Coffee and conversation with son Jeff and then off to breakfast about 9:30.

Jeff recommended 42nd Street Cafe and he couldn’t have picked a better start to the day. Barb had a waffle while I had a Hangtown Fry. For those unfamiliar with a Hangtown Fry, it’s an omelet the main ingredients of which are eggs, oysters and bacon. History has it originating in Placerville, CA., back in the gold rush days when the town was known as Hangtown. Probably didn’t pay to be on the wrong side of the law.

After breakfast we took a drive up to Oysterville, home of the famous, and my favorite, Willipa Bay Oysters. On the half shell, fried or in an omelet they are the best.

A short break back at the house for adult beverage and then off to see watercolors by very well-known artist Eric Wiegardt. Excellent watercolors of boats have me thinking about the budget.

Once again back to the house of more conversation and maybe an adult beverage. Ok, there was an adult beverage involved, but we were are drinking responsibly as many ads tell us to do. BBQ steaks, baked potato and fresh Nebraska corn made for a great dinner.

Tomorrow will be another day in and around Long Beach and will hopefully include oysters in some way, shape or form.

1,737.8 miles so far

Day 6 - Florence, Oregon to Long Beach, Washington

Up again at 6:00 and on the road by 6:55. Rather than have breakfast in Florence we opted for a bakery and coffee shop in Yachats. Sorry, doesn’t exist. Well, how about something in Waldport? Nope, nothing there either. Finally, the Fred Meyer in Newport provided us with a Starbucks’s and pastry.

My plan to get out early ahead of traffic worked for the first few hours. Then it was back to the usual two-lane coast congestion. A quick rest at Fred’s in Tillamook (home of Tillamook Cheese) put a few previously passed vehicles back in the lead and again subject to pursuit.

Our goal for a great lunch was achieved when we reach McMenamins in Gearhart. We split a Dungeon Burger and I had a pint of my very favorite Terminator Stout. Once fueled we set out for yet another Fred Meyer, this one in Astoria. By some miracle both items on out shopping list were available and we walked out with two bottles of Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay and two bottles of an extra special Portland Ketchup.

The last part of our journey went quickly. Son Jeff was waiting with a Terminator Stout, thereby assuring favorable status. Dinner was pizza at the Pickled Fish. It’s nice to be back at the coast.

Tomorrow we begin three days in Long Beach. Should be fun.

1666.4 miles so far

Day 5 - Around Florence, Oregon

Both of us were pretty tired, so nether felt guilty about sleeping in till 7:20. Since this was a no travel day, we decided to have a good sit-down breakfast and the Brown Hen served it up.

Next up was a walk around Old Town Florence. Kitchen Klutter, a regular shopping stop, offered nothing for Chef Barb, while River Roasters filled in for Starbucks with a very good mocha. Rain finally drove us back to the car for an hour or so and then it was back to Old Town.

Lunch time found us wanting to save room for a special dinner, so we split a hot dog, bag of chips and a beer. Not exactly the fish we were looking for. After lunch we checked out some of the fishing boats.

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Quick trips to Bi-Mart and Fred Mayer and then back to our room for a couple of hours.

Five o'clock found us at the Bridgewater, our favorite place in Florence, for dinner. Barb had Cioppino while I had a half dozen oysters on the half shell and Clam Linguine. Both meals were excellent. Now back at the motel trying to remember today.

Tomorrow we are off to Long Beach, WA for a four-day visit with son Jeff.

1442.0 Miles so far

Day 4 - Eureka, California to Florence, Oregon

Eureka, CA to Florence, OR Up at 6:00 for yet another decent motel breakfast. Is this a trend or am I losing my sense of taste?

Not a lot of miles today, but any drive up the coast will be slow. RV’s, log trucks, lots of small coast towns and several bouts of construction meant a slow drive. First stop while still in Eureka was, of course, Starbucks. Second stop was All Star Liquor and I didn’t walk out empty handed. Glengoyne will be a new scotch to try. Hopefully soon.

After a short drive North on Highway 101 we took the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway through the National Redwood Park. Due to their size and age, Redwood trees are very impressive and I wish we had had more time to explore.

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Lunch was in Port Orford, a small town of 1,140 hardy souls and home to The Crazy Norwegian. That’s a restaurant not a resident. According to the web it opens at 11:30 and you better be there when it does. At 11:36 we were the second ones in and after 25 minutes people were waiting outside. Great seafood. We both had a cup of clam chowder and split the four-piece fish and chips. Five stars from both of us. Everything they serve is fresh caught.

The rest of the trip up to check in was uneventful. Safe to say we are not happy with a place we have stayed many times. Customer service was so poor that I mentioned to the desk clerk that as the face of the establishment to customers her job was service. I don’t think she saw it my way.

Dinner was very good. Barb had a shrimp Louie and I had Blackened Cajun Style Fried Oysters. Oysters were excellent, however, when I see Blackened and Cajun in the same dish, I expect some heat. None present.

Tomorrow we do not travel, rather we will spend the day in and around Florence, a place we often visited when living in Oregon.

1379.0 miles so far

Day 3 - Carson City, Nevada to Eureka, California

Another decent breakfast at the motel and we were off by 7:35. North on Highway 395 through Reno and then on to Susanville. Morning traffic in Reno isn’t nearly as bad as Las Vegas, but I still don’t like driving with everyone rushing off to work. Susanville was about an hour and a half away, which means we waited that long for Starbucks.

From Susanville out to the coast today’s roads would be new to us. However, we are familiar with road construction and there was plenty of that. Six sections of one-lane road and we were three and three on the day. Meaning we had to wait three times for oncoming traffic to clear and three times we caught the direction we were heading. Barb was a little upset, but I’m happy batting .500 anytime. Although the drive to the coast was very scenic, the construction did tend to put a dent in our enjoyment. Particularly annoying was so many cars all backed up after each one-lane section.

Lunch was in Redding and we split what must have been a near world record size sandwich. Turkey, bacon, cheese, tomato, lettuce, avocado and with bread it was at least four inches. Couldn’t finish it.

It was 91° when we left Redding. The temp dropped slowly as we made our way West toward the coast, finally winding up in the low 70’s. Loved it. Barb not so much.

Being back in the Northwest and on the coast, we intend to spend a lot of time with our old friend seafood and that started tonight at Cafe Waterfront. Highly recommended by the limousine chauffeur who took us there (yes, our motel provides a limousine) it turned out to be excellent. Barb has a shrimp salad she couldn’t finish, while I had a half dozen oysters on the half shell and just about the best fish and chips ever. Everything is same day fresh and it really makes a difference. A limo back and we were done for the day.

Tomorrow we head to two nights in Florence, Oregon, with a visit to the Redwoods on the way.

1128.3 miles so far

Day 2 - Barstow, California to Carson City, Nevada

Up early and after a decent breakfast at the motel we were on the road at 7:00. First stop was, of course, Starbucks for a skinny mocha to share.

No difficulty with the drive today. West on Highway 58 and then North on 395. That’s it, one turn. Mostly good roads with little traffic. Once past Lone Pine the scenery improved, with the Sierra Nevada’s on our left. Surprisingly there was still snow on the upper reaches of most mountains.

We did stop in Gardnerville for a very nice visit with some new friends. Dinner at Olive Garden and that was the end of a mostly uneventful day.

Tomorrow we will head to Eureka out on the California coast. We are thinking seafood.

753.8 miles so far

Day 1 - Home to Barstow, California

Up an hour earlier than planned. Coffee, cereal, load the car and we were off at 7:08 AM. Unfortunately, the first 179 miles were on Interstate 10, a road we have traveled much too often and one that has few redeeming qualities. Ok, there is the Starbucks in Blythe, which has always been a must stop.

Another 49 miles and we left the trucks and traffic of the Interstate at Desert Center for a lonely drive North on Highway 177, followed by an even more lonely drive West on Highway 62. There is nothing out there except sagebrush, mountains and roads that are straight for 15 miles.

We decided to stop for lunch in Twentynine Palms. Barb worked her magic, using data of course, and found a 5 Guys. Now splitting a 5 Guys hamburger would be the highlight of the morning drive, so she punched the ‘Take Me There Button’ and off we went. It seemed like where we went was off the grid. Finally, after several turns and miles on roads that hadn’t seen maintenance in years, we were within a quarter mile. Only problem was the 5 Guys was located on the base of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. About 100 feet before the gate I made a quick U-turn and made for higher ground. Backtracking we passed a dozen shops advertising Marine Haircuts. The one I liked was Marine Haircuts and Window Tinting. We ended up at Subway for a quick shared sandwich.

Back on Highway 62 for a few miles and then North on Highway 247 for a direct drive into our overnight in Barstow. Arriving too early to check in we spent an hour at the factory stores, without purchases. Dinner was at Oggi’s Sports Bar Brewhouse and Pizza. Highly recommended for anyone stopping over in Barstow.

We had hoped to get out of the heat, but today was a bust and tomorrow doesn’t look any better as we head for an overnight in Carson City. Tomorrow we will finally meet someone we have been in a small email group with for over a year. Good to put a face to a name.

370.2 miles so far

Flagstaff, Arizona Trip

With temps in the 110 degree plus range at home we decided to head to higher ground in Flagstaff, Arizona for a few days. At over 6,000 feet the forecast for Flagstaff was the mid 80’s. Much better. On the road at about 8:30 first stops were for gas and Starbucks.

With a check-in time of 4:00, we had 8 hours to spare. We headed North on Interstate 17 into Flagstaff for a stop at the Beaver Street Brewery for lunch. Next it was East on Interstate 40 to the exit for Walnut Canyon National Park. Had we been 30 years younger we could have taken the staircase with 240 steps to the bottom of the canyon to explore the cliff dwellings. Actually, we could have made it to the bottom, but the climb back up at 6,600 feet was a little out of our current endurance. We did get some pretty good view of some of the dwellings from the top of the canyon, and the visitor center was good.

With still time to spare it was further East on Interstate 40 to the La Posada Hotel in Winslow, Arizona, so Barb could to a little shopping. And a little shopping she did.

Back in Flagstaff we had dinner at a very good small, hole-in-the-wall, strip mall Italian restaurant. Excellent food and great opera music.

To be continued...

Day 2 started with breakfast at the hotel that was part of the room package. Free is not always good and this breakfast proved the point. We will pass on this freebie tomorrow and head to Chick-Fil-A.

Our destination for the day was the Grand Canyon and that started with heading West on Interstate 40 to Williams, Arizona. Williams was important because the Safeway there has a Starbucks and we run on Starbucks. Another 59 miles took us to the Park. The Grand Canyon is in Arizona, but you would think you were in California from all the license plates. Out of 10 cars 7 would be from California, 1 from Arizona and 2 from some other state. Even though the Park was packed we did manage to find a few parking spots that got us views of the Canyon. Pretty impressive hole in the ground.

We didn’t spend as much time in the Park as planned. Perhaps we will go back when kids are in school and most vacations are over. Rather than head back to Williams, we decided to Desert View Drive to Cameron, Arizona. Interesting drive. Once out of the Park we began to see vendors alongside the road where ever there was room to put up a stand. Finally decided we must be on an Indian reservation and sure enough we were. Yes, a Navajo reservation. If you want to see poverty, this would be a good place to start.

Lunch in Cameron was very, very good. McAlister's Deli doesn't exactly sound Navajo, but the ladies working the counter were and I guess that counts.

Heading South back towards Flagstaff we could see rain ahead. As it turned out we encountered some very heavy rain, which meant we really were into monsoon season in Arizona. Before we got into the rain the temp of 97 degrees. Four miles into the rainfall the temp had dropped to 59 degrees. Worked better than our misters at home. Managed a shopping stop at Dillard's, where I purchased a new wallet to replace the current one that seems for fall apart a little more every day.

Dinner was better than average fajitas at one to the many Mexican restaurants in Flagstaff. Back at the hotel I tried unsuccessfully to exchange wallet stuff and finally decided the new one will be returned.

To be continued...

Day 3 started with the same breakfast as yesterday. I know, we were going to pass, but the urge to get on the road home was too much for us.

The drive home was uneventful. The Interstate headed North was packed with traffic. I suppose people heading for someplace cooler, while we were headed for a toasty 107 degrees. Traffic generally moved along slightly about the 75 MPH speed limit, so we made good time. We did manage two stops before home. First to pick up a few groceries and the second to return the wallet.

All in all it was a nice three-day getaway. Unfortunately, we are back in the heat with two 111-degree days coming up.

Click the photo for a larger version

Day 2 - Green Valley, Arizona to Sierra Vista, Arizona

Absolutely the worst mattress we have ever slept on. That said, the rest of the room was great and the breakfast was made to order omelets.

Our destination today was Tombstone, Arizona, where on October 26, 1881, Wyatt, Virgil and Morgan Earp along with Doc Holiday shot it out with a group of outlaws known as The Cowboys at the OK Corral. Nearly $85 million in silver bullion was taken from the Tombstone silver district, but now days it’s known mostly for the gunfight. In fact, the gunfight is fought several time a day as a tourist attraction. We passed on that one.

We did do a lot of poking around in various stores, in fact we thought more of the stores there than in Tubac. One in particular had a lot of Southwest stuff we like and on a second visit we actually bought something. I say actually because we shop a lot for stuff for the home, but seldom buy. Quite proud of us this time.

Lunch was at Big Nose Kate’s, who back in the day was Doc Holiday’s long time companion and common-law wife. Entertainment included watch patrons dress up in old time attire for photos atop a piano and one man band singing country western songs. Personally I was waiting for the paint to collapse under the weight of several large patrons, but there was no joy.

After lunch it was too early to check in for our overnight in Sierra Vista, so we took a 23 mile drive further South Bisbee, Arizona. Narrow streets and no parking resulted in a quick drive through and off to Sierra Vista.

No room yet, so Barb spent time at Dillard’s and once again coming up empty. We shared cheese ravioli for dinner and then it was back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.

Tomorrow we return home.

Day 1 - Home to Green Valley, Arizona

Up early and out of the house a little after 7:00. Been awhile for some time on the road, so we were a little anxious. We have made most of this drive before and it’s nothing to get excited about. Lots of nothing between home and Gila Bend. Did pass the Joe Foss Shooting Complex, which is were I’ve spent the last few Saturday’s. Eastbound Interstate 8 from Gila Bend to Interstate 10 was more of the same, except for one horrific wreck on westbound lanes.

I don’t like Interstate 10. Too much traffic, especially a lot of truck traffic coming out of LA. And the need for speed is everywhere. Did manage to find a Starbucks in a no-name town just before Tucson. Once South of Tucson on Interstate 19 traffic ws light. Interstate 19 in only 66 miles long and end at the Mexican border in Nogales, Arizona.

The object of our drive today was the town of Tubac, Arizona, known as a shopping town for all things Southwest. Didn’t turn out that way. Barb put the hammer down on the budget buster purchases I sought out. Probably for the best. Lunch on the other hand was outstanding. A Mexican place called Elvira’s. I know, that name doesn’t make sense to me either, We shared a chicken quesadilla and the world’s best guacamole.

After lunch Barb wanted to see the border, so a short drive took us to Nogales. Careful not to get into the line of cars crossing the border, we managed a fine view of what must have been a twenty foot steel barrier, topped with some of the best razor wire I’ve ever seen.

Heading back to Green Valley we successfully past through the border check station and made our way to Quail Creek for a look see. A Robson retirement community it’s nice, but not for us.

Our overnight in Green Valley was at the Canoa Ranch Golf Resort. Nice place and nice room once they brought us a key that would work.

Barb did her thing with the internet and searched for a highly rated Mexican dinner restaurant. Manuel’s at six o’clock was choosen. Arriving at the chosen time we found a large crowd waiting entry. Needing gas I found a gas station and filled up while Barb renewed her search. She called El Patio and finding no wait we headed there. Food was decent, but what really set El Patio apart from any other place we’ve been was the music. It was a four person amateur night, complete with Mexican dress and instruments. Violin and singing were both a little off key, but overall I kinda enjoyed it. After each song Barb applauded and wondered aloud why others didn’t.

Tomorrow we are off to a day in Tombstone, Arizona.