Nearing the end of the road…

Three weeks ago, we pulled out of Moss Beach and shifted this trip into drive. We return our rental trailer at 2:00pm tomorrow, bringing our “R-podyssey” to an end. If you’ve read our previous posts, you’re aware that things haven’t exactly gone as planned. The big headaches–Zora’s gastrointestinal issues, the recurring “check engine” light, Maureen’s …

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Serendipity as a travel strategy

When it comes to travel, I’m a planner. I spend months researching destinations and accommodations, secure reservations far in advance, and generally am most relaxed when sticking to an itinerary. In the immortal words of Colonel “Hannibal” Smith, “I love it when a plan comes together.” So this trip has pushed me wayyyyy outside my …

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The scenic beauty of Yellowstone

Instead of Madison Campground in the park, we’re camping in the parking lot of a repair shop in West Yellowstone. I’m not sure how to review that on Yelp! So far I’d give the mechanic high marks for skills and service, but as a campsite they leave something to be desired.

A slice of Americana

I never thought I’d be missing the 100-degree heat at the start of this trip. But it’s 45 degrees and raining sideways here in Deer Lodge, MT. Good weather for truck stop coffee and pie. (Bonus: our waitress is named Bobbi Jo and calls me “hon.”)

Broken thermostats and busted plans

This post is brought to you by C&M Auto in Yuba City, CA Everything was running like clockwork. Until it wasn’t. We left Mike’s parents’ house in Napa at 8:15—as scheduled. We got to the trailer rental place in Placerville at 10:15—as scheduled. And we pulled out for points northward before noon—as scheduled. And then …

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Wheels up

A wise man once wrote that “the most important ingredient in any successful endeavor is preparation.” OK, so that wise man was me. But I’m sure a quick Google search would reveal that many more celebrated and better documented wise men have said something similar—especially when you consider that it’s a pretty bland sentiment. Preparing …

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