
In honor of my out of town excursion with my mom through Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming and Montana, here’s some of the things I love about going on these adventures.
Thirteen Things I Love About Road Trips
1. The Scenery
I love to see new places or places I haven’t seen in a long time. Even familiar places can yield surprises. Like when the Dirt Faced Okie kids and I went along the Mendocino Headlands and found a beach I’d never seen. It was very cool.
2. The Hotels
I’ll admit it. I love hotels. I love to walk into a clean room and be able to leave it without having to clean it up before I leave. What a wonderful gift.
3. The People
Waitresses, hotel clerks, fellow diners-somehow I always end up having conversations with these people. It’s fun to see where other people are coming from.
4. The Food
I like to eat out and try new places. When I was younger (and more scared) I stuck to Denny’s because I knew the menu and was too nervous to try new things. Now, I love to try the local greasy spoon and see what they have to offer.
5. Driving At Night
Especially in the desert. You can’t beat the feeling of the cooler night air and the gorgeous light. When I was young, Dad would drive us over the desert late at night and we’d stop for chocolate cream pie at 3am. That was a blast. Mom doesn’t want to do that this trip, but that’s a special memory for me.
6. Yellowstone Park
We’re going to see a bit of Yellowstone on this trip and I love it. The wildness, the dramatic landscape and the beautiful wildlife make it a must see for any traveler.
7. The Adventure
I love whipping out maps and planning a trip, even if I never take one. The Redneck and I have planned a trip to Alaska we’ve never taken. LOL. Someday.
8. Arriving
Whether it’s the hotel at the first stop or the final destination or the end when I come home, I love the “arrive”. There’s a feeling of relief, relaxation as I pull into the driveway/parking space.
9. Stepping Out Of Time
Being on the road means being away from my usual routine. I love it.
10. My Kids Faces
They love an adventure.
11. Making My Mom Happy
Not an easy task, but she’s been so excited to go on this trip.
12. Just Being A Tourist
It’s nice to be in a different environment and be the visitor for once.
13. Montana
My mother grew up there and my family has always loved Montana. I get to show my kids some of the places I loved when I was little.
Today is my Grandmother’s memorial. Though she died last October, today the family gathers to say ‘goodbye’. I probably won’t be around, but you’ll be in my thoughts.