Lifemagician's 2009 Summer Road Trip

Many months ago, long before I left home, I came accross this little town in PA... and the hostel / guesthouse there. However, I had completely forgotten about it, that is, till I was looking for somewhere to stay late on the 26th July. I was in Panera Bread, Wilkes Barre PA, where I had eaten, and made good use of their free wifi, and trying to decide what I should do for the night. Then, on the hostel site, I saw it again, and all I had read about it came rushing back. A quick phone call to confirm that a (dorm) bed was available, a dash down the PA turnpike saw me arrive at my destination just before 10pm.

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Both having travelled extensively, Michelle and Tom run Mary's Guesthouse as good clean and affordable accommodation for travellers. The only down was that parking was on the street, and then only on one side of the street, in the narrow streets of this old town district.

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Mary"s is close to everything, the history, the sites, cafes, restaurants and pubs, as well as the train rides, library and visitor centre. The Opera House is on the next corner, and the Mauch Chunk museum is next door to the hostel.

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Between the museum and the hostel is this intriguing staircase, which reaches up to the next street. I did not see it used, nor was I able to see from where one would access it, other than through the museum. In the dining room at the hostel is a photo of the staircase with a black bear on the landing half way up.

A short drive sees you at more recent shops and the supermarket. In every direction the attractions abound.

I decided to linger a while. It was a comfortable place, and where as there were 6 other ladies there the night I arrived, the following two nights I had the place to myself. This lovely old multi storey house boosts a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable dining room and bright lounge without TV, but a piano for anyone who can play.

Upstairs are four bedrooms capable of accommodating two dozen guests. The place was spotlessly clean, and even thought the front door was always open / unlocked, I was able to securely lock my room.

It was good to just sit around and catch up on some of my paperwork - no internet. Had my hair done, and went and drove around to see some of the sights and the streets of the old town.

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I had never heard of Jim Thorpe, but at the memorial, where he is buried, there is ample information, that I am now well aware of the place he holds in sporting history; of why the town is named after him. The action of changing the name of two places, brought Mauch Chunk and West Mauch Chunk together under the banner of the new name... more than half a century ago.

I really enjoyed my couple of days in this hamlet tucked away in the Pennsylvania mountains.

Thanks for the write-up and the photos -- always nice to find these places. Like discovering that the 2nd largest collection of aviation and space technology artifacts in the USA is located in Hutchinson, Kansas!

Mark

Hwy 209 leads all the way from Jim Thorpe to the Susquehanna River. It is a good two lane country road, and takes in numerous small towns. It was with great anticipation that I set out on my trip, that Wednesday afternoon. The morning storm, which had pelted my car with marble-sized hail stones, had passed, and I assumed the rest of the day would be fine. Big mistake!! and by the time I reached I-81 I was pretty tired of driving this road in the on again, off again rain.

Headed for Hershey where I planned to check my email, etc. at the library. Tried to follow the instructions from my satnav, but somehow I ended up in the 'Park'. Was shown the way out, but still had a good chance to see what it is all about. I do so not like those type of places. Avoid them at all cost. I was glad that I had decided to spend the night at the truck stop at exit 77, and not in Hershey.

The next day it was straight down I-81 towards Shenandoah NP. At Front Royal I pulled off the road, into a motel car park to check my coupon book and see if any of them refered to one of the many motels in this town. Imagine my surprise that I had pulled into the motel which gave the best deal with the coupon. After some shopping and checking out the town, I settled down in a basic, comfortable room and bed.... with (iffy) wifi!!

Skyline Drive was a great disappointments. I drove the first 65 miles and then reverted back to I-81. Like the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive is slow, very scenic, and if you like to stop at the turnouts for photos and take in the view, then that makes it slower still.

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For me it was fog and rain... and then rain and fog... very little to see and enjoy.

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As good as it got

This is the third time I have attempted the SD / BRP, and each time I have been thwarthed by the weather. As I drove down I-81, I kept listening to the weather on the radio, and looking across to the mountains. The clouds were very low, shrouding the tops of the mountains. I doubt that I would have had much scenery to enjoy.

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On the other hand... a wild turkey crossed my path and many deer were by the roadside, including some young ones.

Continued down I-81 that day and the next, through Harisonburg, past the accident and onto Abingdon, where once again I chanced upon a weekend festival. This time I did not stop. I could see all the goings on, the one thing I could not see was a parking spot.

Sometime before I reached the exit at Abingdon, an 18 wheeler pulled alongside of me, blasting his horn. Not having diverted from my cruise controlled driving, I ignored it, and he dropped back. Soon he was there again, honking. I thought I better look and see what he wanted, perhaps there was something wrong with the back of my car. But no! There was a notepad held up which I could see through his passenger window on which was written... MELB. VIC. I gave him the thumbs up, and he continued ahead of me. (On the back window of my car is a sticker in the shape of Australia with the flag super-imposed upon it.) When I exited at Abingdon I lost him. So if anyone sees Navajo trailer #54813, (maybe in a rest area) pass on my details. LOL

I called the hostel where I had planned to spend the night... south of Galax near the BRP. The hostel sounded really great. When I spoke to the 88 year old owner, he informed me that unfortunately he has had to close for the time being... as he is recovering from a coronary. I was so disappointed. When he heard where I was heading - route 58 - this thoughtful gent did his best to warn me, and advise strongly against my driving that road.

I thanked him... he meant well.

Route 58, which had been suggested to me as an interesting road, was all that and more. Heading east from I-81 it passes through the small settlement of Damascus before it heads into the Mt Rogers NRA.

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At first it follows a lovely stream, and then it heads up, sometimes through private property, and somethimes through SP/NRA.

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(One of the few photos for which I was able to pull off the road.)

It is a winding road, as most mountain roads are, but it is a good road, and a road that anyone should be able to drive. It is not particularly narrow, but it is slow. It was such a pleasure after the disappointment earlier on SD. Really enjoyed the drive. No chance of falling asleep here.

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So scenic and interesting. Not a cruise control road... at least not until you get to, and past Independence. On this fine afternoon, folk were sitting on their verandahs, mowing their lawns and walking their dogs. It was quite an active area despite being relatively remote.

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Well before I got to Independence and the divided road it started to get darker and darker, and the radio started sending out weather warnings. There was movement in the storm which was heading for Hillsville... that was the way I was heading.

The plan had been to take 89 to Mount Airy NC, but by the time I got to Galax it was not just raining... it was pelting down. So much so, that I pulled off the road for a good half hour. The wipers could not keep up with it, and with the amount of water on the road I was not prepared to let some speeding idiot lose control and hit me. It ended up being I-77 down to Mt Airy (where there is a truck stop which welcomes RVs).

The ride from 58 down I-77 is fantastic... straight down the hill! I think I counted four run-away truck ramps. That gives you an indication of the grade. And by now the rain had eased, almost stopped, and it really was a great view over the valley to the east. Wow!! I believe it is called 'a ski run'. Not a place to risk taking a photo whilst driving.

The travel plaza at Mt Airy is one of the few I have stayed at which is not owned by one of the two big fellas. It was a nice change. Not only was the menu different - still great food, great prices - but they offered free wifi, which was available throughout the plaza.

From here it would be an (almost) speed run down to Florida.

As I travel around, there are some places where I feel completely comfortable and at ease... almost at home. Georgia is not one of them! It seems everytime I travel through that State something goes wrong or something awful happens. In 2001 it was a most horrible experience at the hostel in Brunswick. In 2004 I lost my credit card somewhere in the south... (or was it stolen?) and in Atlanta that year I was abused and came very close to being physically assaulted by a drug crazed individual. In 2007 I avoided the place. That was not really an option this time.

It was going to be a direct run on I-20 from Augusta to route 44 >> 129, the shortcut to where I would pick up I-75 to Florida. But right from the start, I almost felt as if I had been jinxed once more. On I-20, in Augusta, where the road was narrow and without shoulder, in the middle of road works, where the speed limit had been reduced to 60 (my cruise control was still set at my highway speed - 62) an eighteen-wheeler cut me off... forcing me to brake so that I did not hit him, or get hit by his rear end.

Fortunately most of these rigs have a freecall number on the back, be it for recruitment or whatever. A small tape recorder comes in handy when trying to record information on the go. Since it was a Sunday, I waited till the Monday before making the call. The safety manager was most concerned, took down all the details, including my details, and thanked me for calling. It is a pity that a tiny minority of rogue drivers affect the reputation of all truck drivers. On the whole I find them courteous. During my interview on the radio in VA, the announcer mentioned that it is estimated that 40% of drivers are too scared to get on the highways. With this type of behaviour, it is no wonder.

Right at the border with Florida, there are four truck stop plazas at the exit, all of which welcome RVs. It was a good place to spend the night. When I came out after dinner, there was a police car parked next to my car. A Florida police car! Now, it is not every day that you get the opportunity to have a close up and personal with a police car... especially an AMERICAN police car, with its engine running. While I was checking it out, make, model, and all the special features, Jeremy the police man came out and answered all my questions. He however, had a few questions of his own.

We chatted for quite some time, before he went back to work. Seeing my window sticker on the back of my car with Victoria's latest road safety slogan on it, he announced that he could use one like that for his car. As it happens, I do have another one with me, but it is in St Paul MN. That is how we came to exchange contact details and agreed to keep in touch.

BTW, I suspect that it is this slogan which made the driver of the eighteen-wheeler cut in front of me. But hey buddy!! If the cap fits, wear it!

I-75 took me to Gainsville the next day, where I struck gold.

At home it is not common to find coffee perculators in every home, but it is rare indeed to find a home without an electric jug. I have been looking for an electric jug to carry in my car... make a cup of tea when I am in an RV park, and at other times. It is possible to get large ones and kettles, far too large for my needs, in the shops... and they cost a lot more than I wish to spend. After all, I only want it for a few months. It was here in Gainsville, in Goodwill (my favourite department store - lol) that I finally found one... exactly the one I was looking for, in good working condition, for the princely sum of $2.99.

Lifey, the last of the big spenders

It is hard for me to comprehend how permanent residents of Florida cope with the constant heat and humidity, not to mention the mosquitoes. Hence, most of my time was spent in my airconditioned car or buildings. Fortunately the Everglades Hostel has good air conditioning, albeit it only in the dorms. The dining and lounge areas are out of doors, as is the laundry. The kitchen house and TV room are a small separate building, just by the waterfall and pond/pool in the spacious tropical garden.

This great hostel in Florida City is the perfect jump off point for the Everglades, the Keys and Miami disctrict. With its policy of 'pay for four nights ($100), get the fifth free', many use it in just this manner. It is served well by the local transit bus service. Of course I stayed and relaxed for my five nights.

Earlier I had stopped to catch up with and have lunch with a friend at AAA, in the Lake Mary area of Orlando. As the manager of the International dept she gets many enquiries about road trips from overseas. She was most interested to hear about RTA as a resource to which she may be able to refer these enquirers.

Spent a full day in the everglades, and even though I was not able to walk the boardwalks, had a most enjoyable time. It was incredibly hot that particular day, and when I did leave the car, left the engine and airconditioning running. (This no doubt will completely destroy my mpg stats.) Bird life was both prolific and active. Not a bird watcher, I am not able to identify most, and it is hard to get a good photo of a bird in flight with my equipment.

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I was however, most pleased with this photo, considering how far away it was. It had flown across my path just before I took this photo.

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In Florida, at one time or another, I drove on every interstate, as well as the turnpike... and on each and every one of them, I struck storms... incredible brief storms with lightning flashing all around me, and rain so heavy it was not possible to see the car in front. This was especially scary on the Overseas Highway, where I was on the 7 mile bridge. Here there are no shoulders to pull over and the car in front of me did not have lights on. SCARY!! Even though the minimum speed on this bridge is 40 mph, the traffic was moving at much less than that.

And then, in typical Florida manner, we were out of the storm and the sun was shining brightly... in fact, the road was dry.

All this happened on my way down the Keys. I had been invited to attend and participate in two Toastmasters clubs, just as I had done in 2007. [This is one thing I like to do when travelling. Whenever I am in a place for more than a night, I like to see if there is a club meeting, which I can attend. On this trip so far I have been made welcome and invited to participate at Toastmaster meetings in St Paul, Boston, Fairbanks, Anchorage and on the Keys.]

Alligator Alley certainly lived up to its name as I traversed it this time. Standing on the platform viewing area at one of the rest stops, there were two young alligators below us. We estimated them to be less than 5 feet long. None-the-less they put on their best performance for us.

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One appeared to be all dark, probably black. However, the other was most colourful.

Crossed from Florida into Alabama on highway 231... where, at the welcome centre, I once again picked up a hotel/motel coupon book. I am finding that in the heat down in the south, the option of sleeping in the car is just not on. Neither is sleeping in a tent without airconditioning. I will be glad to get back to where the temperatures are a little more bearable.

Lifey slowly heading back north

Just to let you know I'm still here and enjoying your fantastic report and pictures [along with many other people] so keep it coming !

best wishes, Dave.

Dave.

It is only recently that I discovered you can actually see how many times a thread has been viewed. I am staggered!!

This trip seems so much more enjoyable than previous ones. I am convinced that the resources of RTA have made this possible.

Lifey who is glad you are enjoying it too

Nearly 4000 page views of your road trip report thus far! Like Dave, says, keep 'em coming.

Mark

It was another coupon motel which accommodated me in Dothan AL. The sun had just gone down and after bringing in my gear, I flopped in a chair and switched on the telly. The first program I stumbled across was one of my favourites... Ice Road Truckers. Not just Ice Road Truckers, but here they were on the James W Dalton Highway. I was estatic! I drove every mile with them. After so much stress on the road that day, in all the storms along I-10, it was exactly what I needed. There were several episodes being shown back to back, and it was very late before I got up to get myself ready for bed.

It had been suggested to me that route 413 in eastern Alabama would be an enjoyable drive. I was not disappointed! Took hwy 169 from Sealle to Opelika to by-pass Phenix City. Beyond Opelika the road was indeed, most scenic.

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At Hollis Crossroads I turned off 431 to take a small side trip along 24 to 281 and into Talladega National Forest, which in turn would take me into Cheaha State Park and onto Mt Cheaha.

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It was a winding mountain road, climbing all the way. After all, I was heading up to the highest point in Alabama.

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The lookout tower.

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Looking up the staircase to the top, which I was unable to climb.

It was at Guntersville Lake that I pulled over for a break... right by where the restaurant boat is moored.

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And there, next to me, was a most interesting vehicle. I tried to check it out as much as I could - inside and out - but there was no one around to ask... probably having dinner on the boat.

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A drink, a snack and I was on my way. Soon it would be dark, and I had some 60 miles yet to go.

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As I was passing through Huntsville the sun was giving a brilliant display to mark the end of another successful day.

Tomorrow would be the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Good afternoon Traveler,

The van you photographed is a standard-issue local television news mobile recording and broadcasting truck. The gear up top is a telescoping mast which rises to some 30' or perhaps a bit more. Atop the mast, but folded down in your picture, is a satellite dish. The operator extends the mast and orients the dish at or near the location where newsfilm is being shot. The mast helps to clear low branches, low buildings, etc. The footage from the field cameraman is fed into computers onboard the van and is then uploaded to the van's TV station via satellite.

I'm looking forward to some Natchez Trace images. I've never been on the northern segments of the Trace.

Keep 'em coming!

Foy

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Foy

The van you photographed is a standard-issue local television news mobile recording and broadcasting truck.

Foy

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I thought it was a "storm chaser" outfit and was expecting Lifey's next update to be about dodging tornadoes soon after !
Dave. ;-)

You might be surprised by all of the gear on storm chasing truck -- It's interesting that both you and Lifey had not seen such a truck before. Like Foy said, it's a standard issue TV truck -- just about every media market in the USA has 50-150 of these vans leased to the various TV networks.

That park in Alabama, has long been a favorite place for us -- really a very special place!

Mark

I have seen the like before, but mainly in the movies and on cable tv with series like the "stormchasers" although my comment was a little "tongue in cheek " because of the sign writing on the truck.

Youse all had to throw cold water on that... didn't ye??

Well, I had never seen one before, and took it to be a truck which follows storms for the station mentioned.

Lifey who was thrilled to see it :-P

I've been in some really dangerous situations chasing storms....

Less than a month ago, I had never heard of it, and had no idea where it is. After reading about it in forum and picking the brains of some of the longer standing members, I was encouraged to check it out. After all, I was going to be in the area, albeit only the northern area.

I entered the NTP from highway 72 near Cherokee and headed north. Even before the Tennessee state line I came upon the first great site of interest.

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I drove down to where the site of the ferry had been to the magnificent waters of the Tennessee River. Back in the early 1800s it was a much narrower stream Colbert's ferry had to cross. Today we have this beautiful bridge to cross over to the other side.

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There was a large picnic ground and water recreation area. It is a fairly narrow and windy road down there, and ever so scenic. A fantastic little bit of road to enjoy.

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Having driven over to the northern end of the bridge, I was delighted to find a parking area from which I was able to photograph a huge barge which I had spotted when on top of the bridge.

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This most scenic route of which I drove only 130 miles, is closed to commercial traffic. At a comfortable and steady pace of 50 mph it is possible to take in the fields, meadows and forest through which it runs. Other features along its way hold one's interest and add to the enjoyment.

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I was most interested to read the explanation of the State Lines here. This is the first time I have seen such an explanation along the way.

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When I came to this board, I realised that at least part of the features of which it speaks were well within my capability. And so I set out to explore the few metres it took to find the paths.

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They are quite distinct, and I wish I could have followed them the whole way. There were some features, even in the few metres I walked which caught my attention.

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If anyone is able to identify any of these, I would be most greatful. There were mosses and other small plants all around here.

It was at one of the many cross roads that a dozen or more motorcyclists entered the parkway. It was just as I got to this intersection. Five had already entered the road; nine had to wait and give way to me. For the next thirty-five miles I drove with fourteen motorcyclists around me... five in front, nine behind. All wore helmets. All respected the speed limit. At no time did any attempt to overtake me, even though there were opportunities. My cruise control, as I suspect theirs, was set at 50 the whole way. At Jackson Falls they turned off the road.

As the day had now well and truly stretched out, I decided to just enjoy the last 40 miles. It was when I got to the double-arch bridge over highway 96, that I stopped again for a photo opportunity.

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It is a shame there is no better opportunity to photograph this bridge, it really is quite attractive.

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The sleek lines of this bridge really deserve more than having to fight with all this vegetation, to get onto a photograph.

I headed for Nashville. Fortunately I managed to get a road side parking spot right near the Visitor Centre, which seemed to be quite busy. There were large trucks with bands on them, and other displays and stalls. In the Visitor Centre I was told that there was a big bull riding event on for this weekend. Not exactly my scene, and conscious that with such a large event in town there would be no way I was going to get an affordable bed.

I left!!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Foy

The gear up top is a telescoping mast which rises to some 30' or perhaps a bit more. Atop the mast, but folded down in your picture, is a satellite dish. The operator extends the mast and orients the dish at or near the location where newsfilm is being shot. The mast helps to clear low branches, low buildings, etc. The footage from the field cameraman is fed into computers onboard the van and is then uploaded to the van's TV station via satellite.

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Actually, that's not quite right. It is a standard issue TV news ENG (Electronic News Gathering) truck, which works quite a bit different from how you describe.

There are no Satellites use for this van, the dish at the top of the mast folded down is actually a microwave transmitter, and it doesn't get pointed at where the cameraman is. The transmitter is pointed towards the TV station's microwave receiver (usually at or near the TV station and/or their broadcast tower). Signals from a camera, which are usually connected to the truck via cables, or from a tape deck inside the truck are then beamed back to the station.

The mast is needed because Microwave signals need a "line of sight" and anything, like a tree, hill, or tall building in the way can block the signal. And actually, many times the curvature of the earth itself is what blocks the path, so the taller the mast the longer the range that the truck will have. A typical truck shooting at a fairly tall reciever over flat terrain will have a range of about 60 miles, but throw a few hills in there and that can change pretty dramatically.

As Mark mentioned, these are common vans and almost every tv station in the US owns at least one of them. Stations in larger markets will have a few of them, plus they will have SNG (satellite) trucks where they can send a signal back to their station from pretty much anywhere.

It had intrigued me when I saw it on the map, and decided I would go check it out. Route 13 and 49 took me to Dover and onto The Trace north, through this (obviously) popular recreation area.

When I first turned off I-40 onto the Loretta Lynn Hwy (13) there were large signs notifying travellers of the Lynn Family Flea Market. After travelling for some miles, and several more signs, I was convinced that I must have missed it. Then suddenly, well away from any sign of civilization a large sign simply said "HERE"!

Here was a collector's dream world. Everything from old cars to fine china and crystal. There is so much I would have loved to buy, both for myself and to give as gifts. But alas!! I am yet to convince Mr Qantas to grant me a much greater baggage allowance. It was not to be. I continued on my way.

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At Erin I took hwy 49 to Dover. This was a delightful, though slow trip through (what seemed like) countless little settlements, one after the other, all strung out along the highway.

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There were little old cottages. There were brand new modern homes. In one place the speed through 'town' was 15 mph, and with children's toys and play equipment almost up to the road, I was not surprised. On my satnav I could see that there were few other streets.

At Bear Springs I turned into Cross Creeks Wildlife Refuge. Here I saw the most beautiful birds, which would not sit still long enough, close to me, to be able to be photographed. On the other hand, the water lillies were stunning and huge. Short of wading in, there was no way I could get a shot of the best of them. And on the river I once again saw a huge barge being pushed along. This is something we do not have at home, do not have the waterways to accommodate them. They keep astounding me.

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The drive along The Trace on the land between the lakes was a pleasant drive, much like the Natches, without all the historical data. I drove straight through. It was when I got to the canal which joins the lakes at the northern end, and the bridge which crosses it, that I spent some time in the rest area. Hot as it was, there was some nice shade to park, and the activity on the water was constant. Speed boats. Jet skis. Leisurely pleasure craft. You name it! If it could float, I am sure it was there.

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From here I was to head west to Springfield and western Missouri. Hwy 60 is really the only direct road. However, since I had time on my hands, I was more interested in exploring some of the local parks and off-the-beaten-track towns. I had been told about the Mark Twain National Forest, and the Bull Shoales in northern Arkansas, all of which could be accessed by scenic routes. It sounded good. Then I got out my map!

Friend who had been advising me on routes and points of interest had missed the bleedin' obvious. It jumped right out at me. Right there, in northern Arkansas was a town called MELBOURNE.

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Well, I had to go and check that one out, did I not. So I set off along route 60 with the intention of heading down 21, 160, and take 9 into Melbourne. Before I had even reached my first turn off, there would be yet another hour or more, hold up... all of my own making. Right there, in the Mark Twain NF, near Ellisnore is a roadside stop. A Stop & Go fuel station, come cafe, come convenience store and entertainment. Time for a break.

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The previous evening I had stopped at an establishment which advertised free wifi, but blowed if I (or others) could access it. Here, in the middle of nowhere was this roadside convenience stop with free wifi. There was nothing to advertise it. If I had not asked, I would not have known. And the reception was five bars. I needed a break. I longed for a really good cup of tea. Like most places, they did not have the facility to boil water. Water heated in a microwave, or hot water out of a coffee machine, just does not make a good cup of tea. It needs to be boiling water.

The lovely lady allowed me to bring in my recent find - electric jug -and make my own cup of tea at the table where there was a power outlet for both the jug and my computer. Together with the snack I had purchased, I sat there for more than an hour catching up on email and other neglected tasks, while I enjoyed three cups of tea. Oh!! the luxury.

Highway 21 which is marked as a scenic route is none-the-less used by logging trucks. This really distracts from its enjoyment. It is narrow, without shoulders, and very windy and hilly. No chance to overtake anything, and when a truck was following me, I would take the first opportunity I could to pull off and let him pass. All in all though, it was a lovely drive... all the way to Melbourne. The roads were all good roads, winding, narrow and scenic.

It was much later than I would have liked, when I got to Melbourne. I checked out the tourist information centre first.... such as it was. At the city hall, there was a small counter where a corner had been allotted to brochures and advertising material.

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http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1589

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1590

Ashley and Bridget, both of whom had other duties, were most helpful in sharing their knowledge and answering my questions. And so it was that I was able to check out another Melbourne.

I have now visited Melbourne in Florida, Iowa and Arkansas. There is only Kentucky left, and I will be there in a few days.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1592

By the time I left Melbourne it was going on for 6pm, and a storm was rolling in. A huge storm! I took a wrong turn, and added much unnecessary time and distance to the day's destination. With the rain pelting down, lightning flashing all around and visibility of only a couple of metres, I was faced with negotiating the mountain roads from Melbourne to Mountain Home via highways 9 and 5. Not a great idea! (You may note that I do not have many pictures of driving in the rain. Not a good idea to either stop, or use a camera at times like that.)

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1593

By the time I got to Branson it was well and truly dark, and it was very late when I settled down in Sprinfield. On the other hand, it had been another day of great achievement. I went to sleep with the knowledge that tomorrow would be better weather.

Joplin

Knowing where I was heading, and when, I had made arrangements to visit the Joplin Toastmasters Club. They were delighted to have a guest at their meeting, and asked me to speak and tell them something about my travels. Which I did, and directed them all to my report.

And so it was that by mid afternoon I arrived at my destination.

For the last three days I have been honoured to be the recipient of glc's hospitality - the host with the most! It was with some hesitation that I accepted the invitation, but immediately felt right at home. He has helped me attend to my car maintenance... attended to my computer problems... showed me around his little corner of the world... and we sat and talked till all hours of the night. It has been a wonderful opportunity to have a restful break. All I can say is "Thanks mate!"

Lifey who is now off - back to Boston

We wanted to drive the Trace last month, but all we found was the Land on Either Side of the Lakes. We took a detour off I24 between Nashville and St. Louis specifically to drive the Trace, but we never found it off Hwy 76. There was a lot of construction and I think we missed the sign. We meandered up State Hwy 121 through the same sort of pretty little towns, with lots of flea markets, as you describe. Stopped at a vegetable stand in Benton (I think) and had our first non-fried veggies in days! Beautiful area.

I was just through LBL this spring and really enjoyed it. The Elk and Bison prairie was really the only part of the park we spent any time (it was a short stop on a long haul driving day) but its certainly some place we'd like to spend more time.

We traveled north to south and we didn't have any problems finding it. While it doesn't help you now, if you try making the trip next time, you should look for Fort Donaldson. If you're coming on 76 from Clarksville, you'll see the fort just before you reach the Trace.

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Originally Posted by ll18

We wanted to drive the Trace last month, but all we found was the Land on Either Side of the Lakes. We took a detour off I24 between Nashville and St. Louis specifically to drive the Trace, but we never found it off Hwy 76....

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Agreed, not easy to find. I went into two supermarkets to ask for directions, and the sign was right there, where the lovely (local) lady told me to look. LOL

Lifey does not have any special sign reading skills

Just dropped by to see how the big adventure is going. Geez you are getting around over there.

Miss you in the forums back on Oztion.

Looking forward to reading the next installments.

Joplin cont.

It was in the carpark behind the Red Onion Restaurant in Joplin that we met Helen and her husband. We were on our way to dine, when I spotted the Subaru Outback and decided to have a really good look at it. I had long been convinced that my Outback is very different from the Outback on North American roads. Unbeknowns to glc and I, the owners of the car were about to cross the road and only meters away. When I explained my interest in the car, they opened it and I had a chance to check it out.

Helen and I hit it off immediately. The men talked their own language. Before we got to dine, Helen had invited either or both of us to drop by anytime we are in Carthrage. And so it was when I left Joplin, I headed for Carthrage to see Helen's creations in pottery. We had nowhere near enough time to socialise, but I know we will again, some other time.

The dinner at the Red Onion was great and the meal the following night at the Red Lobster was absolutely delicious... even though I was not allowed to pay. :(

Clever MO

On my initial trip from LAX to Boston, I had met a couple of truckers at the truck stop in Harborcreek PA. They had convinced me that it was fine to stay there overnight, and guided me as to how to go about it, and where to park. It is to them I owe my confidence at truck stops. We exchanged contact details, and I was invited to their home if ever I should be out Springfield MO way.... provided they were going to be home.

That is how I found myself in Clever MO on Sat 22nd August. The husband and wife truckers were home for around 18 hours, to celebrate grandson's third birthday. It was good to see them again, and I was immediately welcomed into the family circle of two daughters, a son-in-law and three grandchildren. What a delight that evening was, to be able to sit at the table with the whole family, eating a wholesome home cooked meal and celebrating that third birthday. We talked for many hours about ever so many subjects, and because of the heritage in a part of this family, I learned much about the history of the Native Indians of North America. It is not possible to create or plan these precious and unforgetable moments which I cherise so much.

Early next morning I was off again, bound for Melbourne KY.

It's refreshing to hear about the kind folk out there who are willing to share there table etc to 'relative' strangers, it makes a nice change in this day and age where most stories regarding us lot are of a 'negative' content. The fact is there are more good'uns than bad'uns amongst us.
I take my hat off to you Lifey in the way that you engage yourself with the locals on your fascinating journey !

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Originally Posted by Southwest Dave

I take my hat off to you Lifey.............

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Thank you!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Southwest Dave

............. in the way that you engage yourself with the locals on your fascinating journey !

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Dave,

It is the only way I know of, to put my finger on the pulse and get a feeling of this nation's heartbeat . It's great to see all the sights, but absolutely magnificent to get to know the thinking at the grass roots.

The disturbing nature of some of my discussions has been the number of people who have approached me with requests for help to emigrate. I encourage them to be happy with where they are, until they can be where they want to be.

Lifey who wants to understand the land where her grandchildren are being raised

The Mother Road

East of Springfield MO, I-44 covers part of the Mother Road - route 66. Here, as along the route from Carthage to Springfield, I stopped and photographed some of the tacky Route 66 tourist attractions. Back in 2007, in Albuquerque NM, I purchased enough (tacky) Route 66 souvenirs to last a lifetime.

The St Louis Arch

Ended up going right through the centre of St Louis, having missed the bypass turnoff. I had being told that there is no facility for lone travellers who are not able to walk from the parking garage to the Arch, (only wheel chairs which need someone to push them) I had decided to give it a miss. And this is as close as I got to the Arch.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1597

This photo was taken while stopped in bottleneck traffic.

Took I-64 through to Louisville and I-71 to where it meets I-75, from where I would find my way to Melbourne KY. I-64 is a pleasant and relaxing road carrying minimal commercial transport. Downside is that there are also few truck stops. Guess you can't have both!

In the absence of detailed area maps, I employed my satnav to take me to the town I was seeking to check out. Easier said than done. Not for the first time did it take me into unknown and irrelevant territory. Am I doing something wrong??

Stopped by a house where a farmer was at the gate, and asked for directions. Told me to go to the end of this road, turn left (satnav was telling me to turn right) and then 5 miles or so. When I had gone about that I figured I best ask again. But where?

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1599

Here were all private properties along this narrow winding road, with absolutely nowhere to pull over. Eventually I saw a parking area, and decided to pull in. There was only one building, but I had not really noticed what it was. I went in....

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1598

In the semi-darkness I could see half a dozen men sitting at a bar with their drink of choice in front of them or in their hands. The barmaid was pulling a beer. One guy looked up, and seeing the map in my hand, said, "Oh! oh! someone's lost." They were kind and helpful, wanting to know where I was from, and told me in no uncertain manner that I had been heading AWAY from Melbourne ever since I turned off highway AA.

After receiving directions I felt confident and left. He knew what he was talking about. Even though I had been in that pub for less than five minutes, I came out reeking of cigarette smoke, and took quite some time to get it out of my clothes and hair.

Melbourne KY

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1600

Such as it is... with its couple of dozen houses and handful of commercial buildings.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1605

The gentleman at the post office told me that he regularly receives mail, which has been mailed in the US and is addressed to somewhere in Melbourne Aust.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1602

He was a most hospitable gentleman and we chatted for quite some time. I was filled in with all the details of Melbourne... the only school is run by the Catholic Church,

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1601

and in Garfield Avenue there is a building (house) which serves as....

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1604

Having seen all of Melbourne KY in the 60 or so minutes I was there, my focus was back on Boston.

Quote:

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In the absence of detailed area maps, I employed my satnav to take me to the town I was seeking to check out. Easier said than done. Not for the first time did it take me into unknown and irrelevant territory. Am I doing something wrong??

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I don't think yo'ure alone here. Based on pretty much any time I've had someone use satnav as their main way of finding a location thats even a little bit out of the way, the computer is very often going to take you down a bizarre path to get there.

This is why I get a chuckle whenever we get the occational person who comes through the forum saying Sat Nav is great, you don't need anything else and/or it is better than a good map.

I-71 and I-70 took me to Bedford PA. The interstates through PA carry a massive amount of eighteen wheelers and seem to always have mile upon mile of road works going on. Yet there is something soothing about the atmosphere. It was not until this time that I noticed it is not just the rolling hills with a new view over every crest... it is the wonderful absence of those hideous roadside advertising signs. The few signs which are roadside are to inform about services and accommodation... but little else.

Yeah! Pennsylvania is a great state to leisurely traverse and enjoy.

Bedford

The $27 (incl. tax) coupon motel in Bedford was clean and comfortable, with fridge, microwave and wifi thrown in. (Even though the motel at which I chose to stay was listed in my satnav, the directions took me to the Hamilton Inn.)

Covered Bridges of Bedford

I had seen a sign about the covered bridges of Bedford, and having missed out on seeing any in Iowa, thought I would spend some time here. Next morning bright and early, I was at the Visitor Information centre where I obtained details of a self drive 30 mile tour. I was not disappointed.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1608

Checked out 8 of the 9 bridges on the tour,

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1609

all but one were on paved roads

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1607

and two of which were not open to traffic.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1606

The others are all in daily use.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1610

I so wanted to take down the new sign, and see what was underneath. How long ago was it that one had to pay the princely sum of $5.00 for either going to fast or being too heavy? I was also left wondering where those extra three inches had gone.

There were other tours as well, but knowing how I linger at sites I enjoy, I figured it was not going to help me get to Boston on time if I were to do another one. There is always next time.

Gravity Hill

As part of this tour, there is a very small side attraction called Gravity Hill, where your car will actually roll uphill. Admittedly, the grade is not immediately apparent but it is a definite uphill grade. Put the car in nuetral and it will roll uphill for a short distance. There are two spots on this tiny road where this happens. They are marked. Just to be sure I was not being fooled, I put down a ball, to see which way it rolled. It confirmed that there is definitely a grade there. One of those quirky unexplained events. If I had had a compass with me, I would have checked out whether it worked. I figured maybe there is a magnetic field on that hill somewhere, like you get in some mountain spots where the compass will not work.

Then on to Altoona to check out one of the features of 'a tour to cure what ails you'.

When I get to any urban centre I prefer to have a paper map of the place, so I set about looking for the visitor information. Now together with all the instructions which were posted, as well as those which well meaning friends send me, and a satnav... I am blowed if I could even find 17th Street to start. Stopped by Maccas and had a bite to eat, then went on my way again. Guess the rain didn't help... yeah, it rained again. Thankfully I had a fine morning doing my tour of the bridges.

I-99 to 80 to 81 and onto Gibson... in the pouring rain with miles and miles of road works., but at least I knew what lay at the end. It was a truck stop at which I had stayed some time before.

Not to be daunted about not finding the cure on the previous day, I put the word 'viaduct' into my satnav, to find another cure. But alas!! It told me to head south for two miles. Now I knew what I was looking for was near Lanesboro, and that was north, so I set out up north. Still I was not happy with ignoring the satnav, and gave it the benefit of the doubt. I exited at 223 and did as I was told... followed highway 11........ south!!

The Viaduct

It was quite some miles before I got to some viaduct over the road, but with the blind bend in the road and the huge pile of gravel and the men working at the roadside compound, stopped only briefly to take some (not-so-good) photos. But still that satnav was sending me further and further south and my ambivilence grew - shall I, or shall I not persevere and see to what gem it may take me.

I persevered! And the reward was unbelievable.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1612

Right there, where highway 11 meets 92, many miles south of where I had started that morning I chanced upon the Tunkhannock Viaduct.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1613

I was gobsmacked. I would have to agree with Mr Dreiser. How magnificent it would be to see a steam train atop this majectic structure.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1614

I wished I were able to climb the path, which I assumed leads to the top. Of course I took ever so many photos, from every possible position. Even dared a short walk along the road to get to a good spot.

Hwy 92 was to take me back to I-81, but I had not realised that it actually passes beneath the viaduct. And there are houses right below it.

http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum...pictureid=1615

How I wish I could have eliminated those ugly power lines.
{I could do that for you-- but it takes too long....Mark}

Absolutely elated and awestruck, I shot up I-81 > I-88 and decided at this hour it was going to have to be the Masspike once again. :( The satnav was sure to help me avoid missing the turnoff this time.... but alas, how wrong I was. It actually instructed me to exit at route 20, and take that through numerous towns to the Masspike. On the outskirts of Albany I decided to ignore it, and took I-90 all the way to Newton, and my wonderful family.

Having now had a relaxing time in Newton, another visit to the acupuncturist, and an unplanned visit to the ER, I am ready to wind up. All there is left to do is visit the family in New Jersey for the birthdays there, make my way back to St Paul to drop of the car, catch the train to Emmeryville (San Francisco) and visit family members in Santa Clara. From there I will take up my road trip to LAX via the intersection where James Dean lost his life - and associated sites. But until I do that bit... there really is not much more to say.

:-)

If I get around to it, when I get home, I will post just how much the 174 days have cost and where the money went. At this point I only have a vague idea.

Lifey who is starting to look forward to home

Lifey,

I've thoroughly enjoyed your travel journal entries, particularly when I could overcome pure jealousy that I cannot at this point in my life take such a trip.

I see you're headed to Cholame, CA, to the James Dean Memorial Junction. If your visit happens to be on 30 September at 5:59pm local time, it will be 54 years to the hour from the wreck which claimed his life (but I don't know how local adoption of Daylight Savings time affects this, nor if CA was on DST back in '55). If you have not already done so, you can readily find pictures of the area, the intersection, and even the wrecked vehicles on the Internet. The store/cafe' nearby features a sculpture which I didn't know about when I did my spur-of-the-moment drive-by in November 2007.

A good friend of mine was born on 30 September 1955. He claims a spiritual relationship to the late Mr. Dean. I rather doubt it.

Safe travels,

Foy

Me too, it's been great !
Enjoy your precious time with the family and we will look forward to any updates from California.
[I'll be sure to wave as you shoot through Colorado ;-) ]

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Foy

Lifey,

I've thoroughly enjoyed your travel journal entries, particularly when I could overcome pure jealousy that I cannot at this point in my life take such a trip.

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Foy, glad you enjoyed it, but hey buddy, don't be jealous - it is such a waste of energy - just start planning. Few folk are aware that I had graced this planet for six decades before I ever set out on my first road trip.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Foy

I see you're headed to Cholame, CA, to the James Dean Memorial Junction. If your visit happens to be on 30 September at 5:59pm local time, it will be 54 years to the hour from the wreck which claimed his life......

Foy

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Unfortunately, no!! It will be on 12th October. But it is a thought! Maybe next time.

Lifey thinks that would be unreal

While I haven't reached my 60th year, yet, I am already planning a 30 day RoadTrip for July 2010. I'm going to the Big Hole, MT! Hopefully to be followed by 30 days, more or less, of Winter RoadTripping, sampling the offbeat ski mountains of UT, ID, and MT. See, you're already an inspiration!

Somewhere I've read that a crowd of the faithful gathers at Cholame each year on 30 September, just before 6pm local time. That would be a seriously cool vigil to participate in.

Safe travels,

Foy

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Foy

While I haven't reached my 60th year, yet, ..........
Foy

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So I guess you would not even remember any of those heady days.

Thems was the days!! The good ol' days??

Lifey,

With all of this increase in your personal road trip lore knowledgebase, once you return home, I hope we can count on your continued sharing of experiences with members planning their own trips -- your recent real-life experiences will be invaluable to their planning for months to come!

Mark

That is quite a trip! Bet you can't wait to get home? How did you get a visa for so long? The embassy in London pretty much told me to forget it when I wanted a 6 month tourist visa - they said they just don't give them out anymore and it was the VWP or nothing.

Mark,

That was my first reaction.

Seriously, it will be an honour and my pleasure to share and give back some of what I received from this site and the many forum members. Each of my four trips has been better than the one before, and this one was the tops, thanks to all the information and suggestions I have read here. I shall also continue to refer folk to this site. I genuinely think it is tops.

Thanks.

Lifey who can't think of anything relevant to put here

Quote:

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Originally Posted by UKCraig

That is quite a trip! Bet you can't wait to get home? How did you get a visa for so long? The embassy in London pretty much told me to forget it when I wanted a 6 month tourist visa - they said they just don't give them out anymore and it was the VWP or nothing.

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Craig,

It was in 2004, when I wanted to visit my family for more than three months, that I wrote to the US Consulate in Melbourne. I asked if it was possible to get permission to go for five months, to cover the birthdays of family members in the US. I was sent a form to fill in, which I duly did (it is also available on the internet), and submitted it. When I picked up my passport I found that I had a five year visa, permitting me entry into the US for up to six months at a time, during those five years. When it expired early this year, I filled in a renewal form. Each time I had to give proof of residency in Australia, and a good reason to return. My grandchildren at home were sufficient to satisfy them. Home ownership and ongoing job commitments are other acceptable proof of desire to return. (Of course this may be specific to Australia.) Frankly I have no idea why anyone would not want to return. Great as it is to visit, I would hate to have to live in the US.

Lifey who would be happy to email you the form

p.s. On second thought, it may be something they do for visiting a family member.

I was impressed after visiting with you in Panera's in Moline yesterday.

Being deaf, I'm sure I missed some of what you said, but following the website on your card led me eventually to this site.

What an interesting trip (I read all 12 pages); and you are now preparing for your return home in October?

Post more here so we will know when you have returned home.

Pat Westerdale (Linus)

Whenever I meet a person, be it on the road, in a cafe or restaurant, or wherever, I leave them with my business card specifically designed for this trip. [Before every trip (or activity) I undertake, I order my free business cards.]

I had been at Panera's for a while, and was about to pack up and go, when she sat down at a table near mine, facing away from me. Obviously a senior - I found out later that she has many years on me - and walking with the aid of a walking stick, she put down her drink, stick and bag, and proceeded to get out her computer.

I was impressed!

Not to play cards; not even just to check her email. This lovely lady who is in her 80's is a member of senior learning, and designed their website and runs the book group on the site. When it comes to computer knowledge she leaves me for dead!

When I commented on her walking with the stick, she told me that I should see her with her walker. She'd leave me behind there too.

Another great meeting with a most inspiring soul.

Thanks Pat.

Lifey