Well, this is a family-friendly forum...
...so glad you didn't drop an F-bomb or two. I can relate and I don't even have to be all that mad sometimes. ;)
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But, I noticed some areas, like Montana or New Mexico/Arizona- where I can go hundreds of miles without a place to stop.
I think you'll find that there are a lot more places to stop for meals, fuel, and lodging in the West than you think there are. I've done my share of driving throughout the West, including New Mexico and Arizona and I've taken backroads, like mountain roads, whenever possible. I don't believe I've ever gone more than about 40-50 miles without finding restaurants, fuel stations with convenience stores, etc. And even stretches that long are rare. 10-20 miles are probably more typical.
I'm currently planning another trip through Washington-Idaho-Montana-South Dakota-Wyoming and I'm avoiding interstates, using several scenic byways out in the boonies, etc. I'm probably going into the less populated areas of some of those states, particularly Montana, and I don't think I have any stretches of more than about 40-50 miles without amenities anywhere along my route.
I think the same can be said for most of the areas in the West. In fact, stretches where there are no road services for over 40-50 miles are rare enough that there are usually signs warning you of that so you can be aware to gas up, etc. before continuing down those roads.
I think you sound like a great mother who is doing her best to have a wonderful trip with your son while, at the same time, being careful to meet his needs. Kudos for that. But I do think that you have a misconception at how spread out services are.
I hope this gives you a bit of piece of mind as you continue your planning.
Children's & Science museum discounts
Hello again! I just found out something really neat that you might like. I took my kids to the Exploreum in Mobile the other day and they have a partnership plan with a whole bunch of other children's and science museums all over the country. You basically sign up for an annual family pass for $100 and then you can get free/discounted admission to any of the partner museums on their list. Here's the link.
This is going to save me a lot of planning time (and hopefully some money) this summer!
I also have some experience dealing with the gluten issue, my mom has celiac sprue and she is on a very strict gluten free diet. For a long time she only ate cheese and nacho chips! I've noticed that there are a lot more gluten-free foods at Wal-mart and Publix in our area lately. I used to have to shop exclusively at health food stores when she comes to visit which was a giant pain. Of course, you're still going to have to do most of your meals out of the cooler, but it may be easier than you think to find gluten free.
While I'm not vegetarian, I like to find farmer's markets along the way when I travel, they tend to be cheaper and the produce is always better and I've had good luck with this site.
Hope that helps!
