September 17, 2014

Yeah, it's a little late getting Wednesdays blog up but better late that never.

When we visited the American Pickers on Monday we didn't think we would see members of the cast around.  Now we know why   American Pickers, where are you?  

On the way to Cheyenne, we stopped in Sidney NE  World headquarters for Cabelas.  When we were there 2 years ago, the area had only 4 or 5 stores just off the exit.  Today there are many stores and businesses in the area and more built.  What a boost to the local economy.

Grammie had ideas about buying the boys a Christmas present.

Tom on the other hand thought that Dana might need a new tractor.  The other one might be getting a little "worn".

The store has a wonderful display of animals in the store as well as lots of items and aids for procuring them.  A hunters paradise.

There is also a gift shop inside where one might pick up some gifts for the non hunters.  No further comments necessary.

Finally arriving in Cheyenne, 6062 feet, we finally got to see Doug and Robin (the whole purpose of the trip) after work.  We visited at their home and then went out to eat at Sanford's Grub and Pub.  The food was tasty and delicious as the local IPA.

We just happened to catch a glimpse of Jake and Elwood on their way out of town.

Today it reached into the mid 80's with 90's predicted for tomorrow.

September 16, 2014

A lot of seat time today.  We left Des Moines just before 8 and finally pulled into North Platte, Nebraska around 3.  If you have never been across Iowa and Nebraska, there isn't much to see except miles of corn.

We checked into the room and hadn't been there more than 5 minutes when Alice handed me a slip of paper with the number of the golf course across the street and said go.  What was I to do?  I found out that the course was completely flooded last year at this time.

 We went out for supper and then drove over to the Golden Spike Tower.   Closed.
The tower overlooks the world's largest classification rail yard....Bailey Yard.

For more info   Golden Spike Tower

We went to purchase some gas today and the card was rejected. Tried it several times thinking a mistake was made.  Same thing.  Went to check the website and also got an e-mail that fraudulent activity may have occurred.  We found it strange that a $1.00 temporary transaction had been put on the card. Called card member services and learned that a credit was also put on the card.  Hopefully we won't have to stand on the corner with a tin cup and a sign that reads Gas money?

Now why are we going to Cheyenne?  Oh yeah.  We should be there by early afternoon to see Doug and Robin.
We will try to take pictures of beautiful scenery along the way.

September 15, 2014

We started off the day repacking the car after a little scrubbing of the carpet in back, but we think it needs a trip to the cleaners.

After a good breakfast we hit the road.  In a short time we passed a huge Citgo oil refinery.  It explained why the houses are heated with gas.

As we progressed along I-80 we passed what is supposed to be the world's largest truck stop.  The sign read that they have parking for 900 rigs.

About noon we reached the Mississippi River and decided to stretch the legs.  Down by the river was a tugboat as well as a dock that looks like an old paddle wheeler.  The tour boat (not in picture) offers 2 day cruises up to Dubuque.

Down the road a bit, Tom saw a sign that looked funny.  Maine, being the location of controversial hunting methods and North Woods Law wouldn't think this was too funny.  Don't suppose any of you out there would have a story to tell about it.

Turning around from the Mississippi, look what we saw. (Who knew).  Alice went in a bit before Tom came in and the lady asked if she could help.  Tom with his commonly used line said "I'm looking for my wife but I miss my credit card the most."  It didn't cost very much.

Just up over the hill we saw this old car so we thought we would wander up and take a closer look.

For those of you that might watch the History Channel, Antique Archaeology, more commonly known as American Pickers featuring Mike, Frank and Danielle, is located in LeClaire, Iowa. (Who knew) (wink)  There are two buildings there.  The one below that is seen on the program, and another that is the gift shop.

Where's Grammie

Below, some of the things that Mike and Frank have picked.  Some are on sale and some belong to a private collection.

Mikes pride and joy. A knucklehead

This was dug up in a person's back yard in the middle of the night.

An unusual version of a VW

The lady taking our picture insisted that we change places before taking the picture so that the arrow is pointing in the right direction.

We finally ended the day's ride in Clive, Iowa, just west of Des Moines. 

September 14, 2014

Minor change in plans today.  We were going to travel to Lemont Illinois and Tom was going to play Cog Hill Golf Course tomorrow but, with rain most likely tomorrow, Tom played today instead at what has probably been the toughest course he has played ever.

On the way here we passed a van that had a sign on the side that said google "Around the World in 10 Years.  It has been an adventure for 2 Spaniards traveling in the different countries.

It's 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark... and we're wearing sunglasses.  Hit It.

Today there was a slight mishap in the van.  While heading over to the golf course, Tom took a turn onto golf course drive and a growler got loose and broke.  We will just have to slow down a little the next couple of days.  If we get stopped by a cop, he/she wouldn't be impressed with the smell. 

Tomorrow, the wide open countryside.  Since we left Cleveland, the trees have thinned out considerably and the miles and miles of corn has takes their place.  I guess they don't burn wood in the Winter....speaking of wood, I hope my sons-in-law had fun today.  Is there anyone that hasn't heard what happened to Greg Norman?

September 13, 2014

We have been looking forward to  visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.  It certainly did not disappoint.  Since the opening of the museum in 1995, it has collected articles and instruments belonging to many musicians that been inducted to the Hall since it's inception.

On the way into Cleveland we got turned around a couple of times trying to find the Hall, and a parking space.  We finally found a convenient location for only $5.

The city of Cleveland worked hard to finally be honored as the City of choice for the Hall, ahead of places like Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Memphis and San Francisco.  The first inductees were honored in 1986 even though the Hall wasn't opened until 1995.

The Hall is a 7 story building that features many articles from artists as well as people contributing to the recording industry.

Bo Diddley's electric guitar

AC DC

Beads anyone?

John Lennon's Yamaha

Articles from the Beatles performances

Alice pointed out that the song Beautiful Boy in the movie Mr. Hollands Opus was actually penned by John Lennon.  It was written and recorded in 1980 on the inspiration of Sean.

Jimi Hendrix's outfit worn in 1970

Heavy metal anyone?

The piano used by Jerry Lee Lewis to record Whole Lotta Shakin and Great Balls of Fire at the Sun Studio in Memphis.  It was also used by Carl Perkins to record  Matchbox and Your True Love.

Memorabilia from the Woodstock festival in 1969

You know the routine...and a trip through the museum store.  $8,000

We decided to take a short walk to Lake Erie.  On the way was a limo with sign on back.  With 43 years, we decided we could have a little picture fun with it.

We walked around a monument and saw a wedding attendant waiting for pictures.  She is wearing sneakers that match the Bride and Groom

Kind of makes you wonder what we are up to doesn't it.  Actually nothing...just a selfie.

Getting close to 5 o'clock we decided to back to the parking garage.  When we turned the corner, the door was closed.  We went to the elevator enclosure...locked.  Another entrance...door closed.  We went around to another entrance and they were getting ready to close up for the day.  Luckily we got there in time.  The garage was being used as a parking area for a special event.  Come to find out is was for people in the wedding we noticed a while before.  It is normally used for employees at the court house and is monitored by security and locked at night.  So glad we decided not to take the time to have a meal in the city.

For more, visit Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

September 12, 2014

Another travel day, this time to Cleveland.  On the way, we stopped in Mentor, OH to visit the home of James Garfield, 20th president of the US.  The site is a National Historic site which also includes the memorial library established by his widow, Lucretia Garfield.

He staged his Presidential campaign from his home, many times delivering speeches to thousands of people from the front porch of his home.

The carriage house on the farm now serves as the visitor center.

Something special occurred this morning before we arrived.  Thirty people became Naturalized Citizens in a ceremony performed by Magistrate William Bachman, with Robert Garfield, grandson of President Garfield in attendance.

For anyone who might want to visit the home, It is only 2 miles off I-90 in Mentor, OH

Tonight, some reading up on what to do/see in Cleveland.

September 11, 2014

Good Morning all

Today we decided to drive through the Adirondacks to see some spectacular views of the mountains.  Thinking the added hour to the days drive would prove to be good didn't turn out that way.  The on and off rain and clouds took away our enthusiasm for the ride however there were many reminders of the calendar day. 

When we arrived at our overnight lodging, we were given a $25 gift certificate to a Delmonico's restaurant that we could see out the window from our room.  We took advantage of it and the meal was what we needed...and enjoyed after a day's drive.

September 10, 2014

Hello all,  please welcome the Travelocity Troll who is accompanying us on this Fall trip.  He will be in pictures that may be of interest to children...and adults alike

The day started off great with our oldest grandson being very lucky to be drawn for an any deer permit.  Congratulations Drew.

We traveled through Norway to see the progress on Garret's new deer stand.  When finished, the raised deck will be complete with coffee maker and a swing set underneath for the kids.

After getting away from the early morning low clouds in Maine, we began to see a lot of sun on an absolutely wonderful travel day.

Can you pick out Mt Washington in the pic below?

Today's final destination was Plymouth Vermont to see a family friend that lives there and works in a nearby town.  Although many may recognize the "Moose Rider" from last years trip to Idaho, the other person is Kathleen Robbins who is a Maine native "living in exile" so to speak.  I have titled this picture "Two Moms"

We went for an evening meal at a local brewery that is right on the river in the background on the 2nd picture below.  The Long Trail Brewery has a unique bar has a good sized keg behind the counter.

They have some hops growing that are for decorations, but are not used in the brewing process.

Tomorrow, off to Rochester NY to see I don't know what.

April 1, 2014

Happy April Fools day everyone.

Today we drove over to the Sea Pines section of Hilton Head Island.  It is where Harbour Town is located, home of the HBC Heritage Golf tournament.  The bleachers are being assembled and the town has hardly a parking spot available.

This afternoon we went to the Sea Pines Forest Preserve and got a few candids of the wildlife.

This gator was out sunning today.

 If you look closely, the Ibis is trying to eat a fish.  It doesn't look like it's going to happen but in the end, the fish was gone.

 The Osprey shortly before it took off to circle the pond.

 This gator is known as lefty to the people in the area.  You probably noticed that it doesn't have a left claw.

 An Anhinga drying off after a fishing expedition.

 A great Blue Heron

 Would you believe this bad boy can run for short distances over 20 mph?

Have a good day everyone.