LYN'S JOURNALS
December, 2003
December 1, 2003 - Monday - 2113.3 = Total Miles to Date
232.8 Total KS Miles - Day 25 - Vacation Driving Day
Last Weeks Total Miles 112.0
Today I got up early, had my *GAJ BIT, then wrote letters until the others got up close to 9 or 9:30. I was able to get 6 letters written - mostly thank you's. After we were all up we got everything ready and checked out and drove to McD's just in time to still get breakfast with our gift certificates.
After breakfast we drove on to Colby where I stopped to get sunglasses. Mine broke on Pikes Peak. I don't know what happened, but I just looked down and noticed that my sunglasses had snapped in two. My sunglasses just have not lasted on this trip. Anyway I bought two pair, then we got some snacks and continued on. I drove for awhile, then Joni took over at the next stop. We stopped only a time or two after that at rest stops, and at Abilene for gas. Finally we stopped at Junction City at the Dairy Queen to eat dinner, then on back to Paxico to our castle.
We got things out of the car and returned things to the car that we had put into the castle for while we were gone. Then we put things away somewhat, but we didn't bother hooking up since we are moving tomorrow. We're parked close to the restrooms here so we can just walk over there to use those as needed. It's good to be back at our castle and in our own beds though we all had an absolutely wonderful time this week. It was a good time of R and R that we were much in need of. And it was a great time with Ernest and Bernice. I really love being with them - and the others enjoyed it so much also.
*GAJ BIT = Great American Journey Bible Inspiration Time
December 2, 2003 - Tuesday - 2113.3 = Total Miles to Date
232.8 Total KS Miles - Day 26 - Moving Day
Last Weeks Total Miles 112.0
Today we slept in a bit (well Sam and Joni did) then we got busy packing up and preparing to leave. Joni and I went to the post office to get mail and leave our forwarding address. We also took pictures of the town, and we left Special Memorial Stone A at the Paxico sign on the east side of town. We took pictures of the campground on our way back to camp. Now Sam had things ready for us to finish up and head out.
Joni went over to the pay phone and called her brother in England to find out how his twin granddaughters were doing. When she came back she reported that they were both at 2 lbs 7 oz. now and doing well. Judy was over at the restrooms getting ready to do the cleaning, so she came back to the castle with Joni to say good bye to us. We stopped at the office to say good bye to Betty and chat for a bit. Then we headed out for La Cygne (pronounced La Scene and meaning The Swan - or something like that).
We stopped in Maple Hill at the gas station/market to get gas and exchange the extra FL magnet for a WY magnet. It was cold and windy. We headed on east toward Lawrence. At Lawrence we drove through on Hwy 59 and turned at Hwy 10. From there to Hwy 69 south to Linn County. We stopped at Louisburg to get gas again and use restrooms, then on to La Cygne and to the Linn County Park where we got a campsite (one of 4 available with full hook ups). It is a beautiful spot way out in the boonies by a lake.
Unfortunately we don't have phone service here (Sam & I don't, but Joni does), so we had to drive a couple of miles to a spot where we have good service. We got through to Alyce-Kay finally and told her where we were. They had a possible spot in Butler, but needed us to make reservations for them. We did so then I also called Dave and Russ and talked to them for a bit. We headed back to camp, had dinner, then went out to call Alyce-Kay again. We found out where they were in Butler and Sam and I headed over there. It is about 25 miles from our campground. We got to their motel (the Super 8) and visited a bit before leaving Sam to spend the night. I took Lois back with me to spend the night at our castle.
It rained lightly as we drove back to La Cygne. After we got there and Lois and Joni greeted each other, we got ready for bed. Then I disconnected our water in case it got below freezing, and went to bed. I was really tired - it had been a long day for me since I had been up since 6 AM and to bed at about 11 PM.
December 3, 2003 - Wednesday - 2113.3 = Total Miles to Date
232.8 Total KS Miles - Day 27 - Visiting Day with A-K & family
Last Weeks Total Miles 112.0
Today I got up early while the others slept until about 9 AM. I worked on my *GAJ BIT, then on journals and reports. When they got up I fixed scrambled eggs and toast and we ate. After that we sat around talking until Alyce-Kay and the others came.
We visited in the castle a bit. Alyce-Kay had made snowflakes for us to hang around the castle, and we hung those up. She had also organized an advent gift giving for us, so people are sending gifts to be opened on different days of advent. The first was money for a small Christmas tree (it has to be small for our castle). We have lights to decorate with now too. A lot of people got their gifts to A-K before she left for Tennessee so that she could bring them to us. We put those in the castle to be opened on specified dates.
Then we got some things together to send to Tennessee with A-K. The things that are Sam's will be waiting for her, and the things that are Joni's and mine can be picked up in June when we take Sam home to Tennessee. One of the things we sent was our state rocks since they take up a lot of our storage space under the couch. Now we'll have room to put the rocks in from the next 8 states.
Finally we all got in our cars and headed to Butler, MO where A-K and family are staying at the Super 8 Motel. We found out where the post office was, and Joni, Kittie, and I headed over there. We didn't have any mail yet, but I left him a card and he'll start watching for it. We did mail some other stuff. Then we went to the Ford dealer to see about new seat belts for the back seat. They'll be $106.00 each and they can't get them for about 2 weeks. We were told that seat belts in MO are only required in the front seats, so legally we'll be okay when both Chip and Joan are with us, but we'd sure like to have them in just for safety. We'll just have to wait and see what we can do.
Next Joni and Kittie and I went to Taco Bell to get dinner for everyone. We took it back to the motel to eat. Then we stayed and visited some more. We agreed that Sam could stay overnight with them again, and I'll go over in the morning to pick her up. Finally Joni and I said good night and we drove back to the castle. There we took the dogs out for their walk, then settled in for the night.
December 4, 2003 - Thursday - 8.0 + 2113.3 = 2121.3 Total Miles to Date
240.8 Total KS Miles - Day 28 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles 8.0
Today I was up a bit after 5 AM, did my *GAJ BIT, then woke up Joni and headed for Butler, MO to say good bye to Alyce-Kay and the kids and pick up Sam. I got there at about 7:40 and went on down to the Bank of America to get GAJ money first. This is the first B of A we've seen since Washington state! Then when I put my ATM card in I was given the choice of getting from the GAJ account or from our personal account - something we had expected to be able to have everywhere, but WA state only allowed you one account so it was strictly a GAJ account. Anyway I'm excited because I can now get my personal money without having to borrow from GAJ and then charge something for GAJ on my personal card. Sound confusing? It's not really. Hopefully that's not the only B of A in Missouri.
On my way back to the motel where Alyce-Kay and kids were staying I saw two people walking toward me. Thinking that a bit unusual I took a second look and realized it was Sam and Alyce-Kay. They looked at me kind of strange since I was coming from the wrong direction. I pulled into the next street and waited at the corner while they headed back my way. They got in and we went to McDonald's so I could get breakfast (they had already had their's). I just drove through to get it and take back with me to the motel.
At the motel I ate while they got their things ready and the little ones ate their breakfast. Then they loaded their car while I helped keep their animals calm and controlled. Soon we said our good byes and they got in to go. Then Alyce-Kay started to get her keys to start the car, but couldn't find them. For the next hour or more we looked, taking everything out of the car eventually and going through suitcase after suitcase. The motel room was searched - everyplace. Several of us went through the pile of wash cloths and towels in the bathroom. Sam and I walked down the road where she and A-K had been walking this morning to see if she had dropped them. Not there. We checked in the motel office - no one had turned them in. Finally A-K called AAA. They had to get in touch with the car rental company and the FORD Dealer in Butler and a towing service. Then it looked as though they would have to tow the car either to Kansas City or to Springfield to get the locks changed and new keys made. All in all it was going to cost them about $200. Now, mind you, we had all been praying the whole time. The tow truck arrived and at the very same moment we heard a joyful yell as A-K found the keys! She had an urgent need to go to the bathroom and started thinking about where she would have put the keys if she had them in her hands when she went in there earlier. The hook on the door, of course. She looked up and sure enough, there they were!
The tow truck was sent on its way. A-K was so happy she needed some time to rejoice and celebrate, so she begged us to let her take us to lunch someplace (it was only 10:30 AM). I knew this was important so we agreed. Besides it gave us a little more time together. We started to go to Pizza Hut, but they weren't open yet. So we went to Hardee's instead. It was a good meal and a great time of being together a bit more. Now we said good bye for real, and went on our separate ways.
I had tried to call Joni earlier to let her know why we were taking so long. I left her a message since she evidently didn't have her phone on. As we drove home I got a call on my phone form her, but we couldn't receive it (bad reception). I had Sam tell her what had happened on the phone just in case she could hear us (we've had that sometimes, where someone calls and we can hear them plain as day, but they can't hear us). It turned out she didn't hear us, but it seemed like a good idea to all of us since that does happen frequently.
Finally we drove in to our camp and were able to explain everything to Joni, and she had indeed finally gotten our message as she walked around the campground looking for a place where she had good enough reception to get the message. Now we got our stuff together and loaded the car and took off for Lawrence to begin walking. We knew it wouldn't be a big mileage day, but at least we would get some done. After all it had already been a week and a half since we had walked. Yes, we were all ready to get back into it!
We tried to drive the route we were going to be walking, but the roads just didn't seem to do what they were supposed to do. We were able to get some figured out - enough for today at least. Finally we arrived at the Lawrence Visitor Center where we had stopped a week and a half ago, and began walking through the town. What a nice downtown they have! We stopped in a couple of stores - one to get shoes for Sam (she really need new walking shoes), and a "Brit" store to get Flakes candy bars, and look around.
After downtown Lawrence we walked through an area that had a lot of Victorian homes - many were either renovated or soon to be renovated. Then we walked on out of town and headed for Baldwin City. We didn't make it that far, but at least we got out of Lawrence a ways. Tomorrow we need to go back to the edge of Lawrence and place a memorial stone. We prayed today, but forgot to get the stone ready.
The last few miles we put Waliluke in the car because there was no shoulder and it had a drop off into a ditch much of the way. Though short on mileage we still felt good about the day. We drove back to the castle, had a quick meal, went through a few of the packages that were sent to us for advent, and went to bed.
December 5, 2003 - Friday - 16.4 + 2121.3 = 2137.7 Total Miles to Date
257.2 Total KS Miles - Day 29 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles 24.4
Today we got out at about 9 AM, then we went to the Texaco station for gas and to ask about propane. She told me that the guy that does the propane doesn't have regular hours - he just comes whenever. So I asked what people do when they want propane, and she said that they often just bring in their tanks or RV's and leave them overnight. I told her we need to sleep in our RV so that wouldn't work too well. So I asked if there was anyplace else to get propane. She suggested I try the co-op in La Cygne.
So we headed to La Cygne. First we stopped at the post office - no mail yet, but we left a card. Then we went to the co-op - what an experience. I went in and a bunch of men were talking. Finally one of them came over and stared at me, so I asked him about propane. He said they didn't have a truck now. I wasn't sure exactly what that had to do with anything, so I asked him if we could bring our RV in and get some propane. Again he told me they didn't have a truck. It broke down and the guy had to go to Tennessee to get another one and they didn't know when he would be back. I finally asked if they didn't have a fixed tank that they get the propane out of, and he told me again that "We ain't got no truck". Then the lady clerk got off the phone and I think I got through to her a bit better about what I wanted. I really wanted to get the propane delivered since we have to unhook everything to bring it in. She said that they don't generally deliver unless it's for the big tanks. I asked if they sometimes deliver to the permanent RV's at Linn County Park, and she told me they did. So I asked if they might be delivering propane to anyone out there soon, and she told me they might. I then asked if it would be possible to add us to the list if they did do a delivery out there. She thought that might work. Then she told me that if propane is needed out there before they get the new truck a truck from a nearby town might deliver it for them. Well this conversation went on and on, but we finally agreed that it might work for someone to deliver propane to us if someone else out there needed it. I asked about paying for it - could I come in after they delivered it and pay for it? She agreed that might work. I have no idea what might happen, but it sure was an interesting conversation.
We continued from La Cygne on 152 to 7 and on the back roads to Baldwin City. We made a few wrong turns, but we finally got there at about noon. We went into the service station/McD's to use the restrooms. The man who gave us directions yesterday saw me, and said,"I thought you were walking". So I explained that we were doing some scouting so we would know where to walk, and that we would indeed be walking into Baldwin City a little later today. I promised we would stop in when we did walk in.
Off we went to our start point. After leaving Sam and me to walk, Joni went to Lawrence to drop off our Memorial Stone # 94, which we later realized had been mistakenly numbered 93. Oops! We walked for quite awhile and met Joni, then she walked back to the car and headed on to the next place. When Sam and I came to Vinland we stopped and prayed and left Memorial Stone #95. We continued on a very pretty portion of this route to Baldwin City where we stopped in to see the man at the service station. He congratulated us. We then bought some food and drinks and stayed at the McD's part eating and making phone calls for awhile. With no phone service at our camp, we have to make calls whenever we can.
After our calls, we headed on through Baldwin City, then on out on Ohio to Shawnee - these are street names. We put Waliluke in the car when it got dark, and we continued on to the end of Ohio. We quit there, and Joni drove us on back to the castle. We did stop at a store in Louisburg and got some groceries. Then we went on back to the castle, put stuff away. Then we ate dinner and put up Christmas decorations that people have sent us, and finally went to bed. I'm falling asleep as I write this so I guess I better quit and get to bed.
December 6, 2003 - Saturday - 16.5 + 2137.7 = 2154.2 Total Miles to Date
273.7 Total KS Miles - Day 30 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles 40.9
Today I got up to a very cold castle again - no heat. The temperature was 23 degrees, and it was very gray outside. I had my *GAJ BIT, and got Sam up so she could do part of hers. Then finally I got Joni up. After we ate we headed out for Baldwin City where we found a sign to place our Memorial Stone # 96. Then we went to the McD's/Service Station to use restrooms and get snacks. Santa was there for pictures with the kids, but since there were no kids at the moment he was out front walking around and waving to everyone. Joni stopped to talk with him while I was in the restroom, so when I came out we talked some more and took pictures. Another man took pictures of all of us with our santa hats on standing with Santa Claus. Then a man came out from inside the store with his camera and took pictures of us with Santa. He was the local paper reporter. They said they would mail a copy to Dave if it was in the paper. That was fun.
Finally we drove to our start point and began walking. We walked into Le Loup and prayed and left Memorial Stone #97. Then we continued on down Tennessee Ave. to Hwy 68. But on the way we were stopped by a gal who wanted to know where we were from. She and her husband were at their place, and they had goats, a pot bellied pig, and a dog. We talked for a bit, then she invited us in for some iced tea. We drank that and visited - her name is Crissy Everett. Then my phone rang and it was Raymond and Esther Hickey. They were out pre-walking the San Francisco Christmas hike and needed to talk about things. I told them where I was, and they kept it short.
After that we continued to Hwy 68 and turned left. I called Marilyn and we were able to talk a bit, but service wasn't the best, so we didn't try for too long. Also my battery was about out. At Hwy 68 and Vermont Ave. we stopped for a 10 mile manna break, then continued on down Vermont. It was getting dark, so now it was flashlight time. The road was long and straight and we made pretty good time - not much traffic. We walked through the town of Rantoul and met Joni soon after by what appears to be an aircraft museum or something. Maybe we can see more on Monday when we pick up from there.
Now we drove back to our castle, but went too far on the road we were on and ended up driving a bit further than we planned for. Oh well, we got to go on a few more back roads than we had planned. We finally made it home and had our dinner and cleaned ourselves up and headed for bed.
December 7, 2003 - Sunday - 2154.2 Total Miles to Date
273.7 Total KS Miles - Day 31 - Rest Day
This Weeks Total Miles 40.9
Today we headed into La Cygne to choose a church - we had already seen one that we figured would work, but we wanted to check in case another fit better. We ended up at the La Cygne Christian Church which was very good. Pastor Mike Allen introduced us, but didn't ask us to share. The music was very good - we were in the contemporary service, but it was all songs I knew.
Pastor Mike's sermon was Part 6 and 7 of "My Journey to the Big Dream". This was taken from a book by Bruce Wilkenson called "The Dream Giver". Part 6 was titled Am I ready for the Giants? - Here he talked about the fulfillment of our dreams having obstacles to overcome - hmmm, sure fits us. Part 7 - Do I Realize that this is Just the Beginning? - This Journey is just the beginning. The whole message really fit our Great American Journey. I was taking notes so rapidly that my writing was bigger. I soon realized I was running out of paper. Soon the woman next to me reached over with another sheet of paper for me. She had been watching me take notes and noticed I was about out of room, so she pulled some paper from her own notebook for me to use. How sweet.
After the service we talked with several people - including the lady who gave me the paper. Her name was Norma - interesting since this GAJ began by my friend, Norma, and me talking about riding bikes across America 50 years ago. We shared with Pastor Mike how much we appreciated his message and how it fit our Journey so appropriately.
We left and went to the Out Post to eat lunch. It was a very good meal. Joni and I both had hot roast beef sandwiches (delicious!), and Sam had a very nice Chef's salad. Then we came home via the Texaco station to see if we could get some quarters. We were able to get $20 worth. I also asked about propane. It seems to be very difficult to get propane around these parts. I'm not sure why when everyplace else we've been makes it so convenient. He suggested we try the Co-op in LaCygne, but I told him, "They ain't got no truck."
Back at the castle we all changed and got stuff ready for the laundry. Sam emptied out the van and I got my bed mattress ready to put into it. Then Sam and I drove back to LaCygne to the car wash to use the big vacuums to clean the car and my mattress. My mattress had a lot of dog hair on it since both dogs are frequently up there. It took a lot of quarters to vacuum. Then we found a good place to make phone calls, and I called Georgia, and Dave before returning to the castle - we have no phone service at the castle -- sort of like "I ain't got no truck".
Back at the castle we helped with folding clothes, vacuuming, sorting and putting things away. Then we had popcorn, etc., finished getting clothes and such put away, and headed for bed.
December 8, 2003 - Monday - 14.0 + 2154.2 = 2168.2 Total Miles to Date
287.7 Total KS Miles - Day 32 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles 14.0
Today I was up a bit after 5 AM and did my *GAJ BIT. The others got up soon and we ate, unhooked the castle and headed for the Texaco station to see about propane. The guy that pumps the propane wasn't in, and probably wasn't going to be in since he was ill. So I asked if they had the phone number for the Co-op in LaCygne or could tell me where else I might get propane. The gal got out the phone book and also asked a guy sitting in one of the booths if he had any ideas. The two of them together came up with a couple of ideas and found the LaCygne phone number for me. I called LaCygne first since they were the closest. They said their truck would be in this afternoon. So we decided to drive the RV to LaCygne and leave it there while we walked.
We arrived at the Co-op and I asked the guy inside where to park. He showed me a good place, and I showed him where the tank was since most people can't find it. We arranged for how I would pay for it and then we headed out.
First we went to Rantoul and drove around to find a good place to leave our Memorial Stone # 98. There were a couple of churches across from each other, so we left it at the old one, which was the original church -- or something like that. We finally got to our start point at the Dodson International - World Headquarters, where there are a lot of airplanes sitting around on the west side of the road in a field. On the east side there is a section where there are a lot of airplane parts -- old and new, and then a bunch of airplane hangars - or something like that. Then there is one airplane up on a pedestal. We took several pictures, then began walking. Joni met us and walked with us, then met us a couple more times before our 10 mile manna break. We found a bunch of rocks in our first section that we collected to use for memorial stones. Then in the second section we found a bunch of bricks to use.
Joni parked the car at an abandoned house the second time, and we did some exploring. We found some old books, and some not so old books. Then we carried on into the town of Osawatomie, KS where we took our 10 mile manna break, and we also prayed for Osawatomie and wrote Memorial Stone #99 to set down later. It is a really cute town with delightful old style homes, and a park and memorials named for John Brown. Here Joni stopped at John Brown's body. Then she drove on through and we walked through. Sam and I stopped at the Casey's to use restrooms, then continued on hoping we would see Joni soon since we didn't have our flashlights with us. I tried to call her, but just got the voice mail. I left a message, but doubted she would get it. Then she called and said she had gotten to the underpass already and wanted to know where we were. I told her we were right by the big bridge and would wait for her there since we didn't want to cross it in the dark without flashlights. We waited and waited, and finally she called back. I gave her careful directions from Osawatomie. Sam and I wondered if she had gone a different way since there are other roads that also go to 169 and under it. Well, after a long wait we decided to walk back toward town. As we walked we suddenly saw her. She was able to pull off onto our side of the road onto a wide shoulder.
As we sat there trying to decide what we would do (it was dark and we still had to pick up the castle and take it back to the campground) a policeman pulled up behind us. Joni said, "Oh no, what have I done now?" One got out and came up to Joni's side, and another came to my side. I had a card ready. I didn't see the one on my side. The one on Joni's side asked if some of us had been walking by the bridge. We told him we had and what we were doing. He assured us it was okay and was quite pleased that we were praying for the nation. He said, "keep it up, we need more prayer." He also noted that she was parked on the wrong side of the road (there was no shoulder on the other side). Sam said, "She's from England, she always drives on that side of the road." Then he said they would help us get back onto the highway. The other policeman then turned on his flashlight and went into the road ready to hold up traffic for us while we got back onto the road. They were delightful and I wish it would have been a bit more convenient to take their pictures. Oh, the reason they had stopped was because someone had called the police to say they had seen two people walking out by the bridge. It seems they've had some not-so-good things happen at the bridge, and didn't want to take any chances.
Finally we were on our way back to LaCygne to pick up the castle. In the dark we missed one turn, but just went on to where Hwy 7 meets Hwy 152 and went into LaCygne that way. The bill was on the door of the castle with an envelope. I wrote the check and we slipped it under the door as planned. Then we drove to the campground again, got it parked and hooked up, and had our dinner. Sam hung some more of the decorations and we journaled and went to bed.
December 9, 2003 - Tuesday - 12.1 + 2168.2 = 2180.3 Total Miles to Date
299.8 Total KS Miles - Day 33- Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles 26.1
Today was really interesting. It began with a good thunder storm that lasted as we got ready to walk and as we drove to Osawatomie. Uncertain as to whether or not we should walk with lightening flashing we decided to find a café to have some hot chocolate and talk to some locals about weather. We walked into a motel restaurant where we were greeted by Bruce Hosea (sp?). He was a Salvation Army bell ringer. We got to talking with him and gave him our card and told him about our Journey. He was thrilled, and told us some of his experiences and about his son who was wayward and is now a missionary in Taiwan. When we went into the restaurant he came in and talked with us a bit more, then prayed for us. What a delight! Oh, Bruce told us that we should be fine with the lightening since we all had rubber soles.
We ended up ordering breakfast and sitting there awhile. As we ate we were looking out the window. A car drove up next to ours and three delightful looking people got out. They were dressed impeccably and were so "cute". The couple was elderly (Joni says, 94, and Lyn says more like 75 - oops, 75 is no longer elderly), and the 3rd one was probably their daughter. We were enjoying their looks when Sam noticed the older woman take a piece of gum from her mouth and stick it down under our tire. We were a bit shocked - such an elegant looking woman doing something like that. We laughed about that for awhile - and we still are.
Finally we left to start walking. The rain had slowed, the thunder and lightening had stopped. We began walking and soon the rain stopped completely. Through the day it was off and on. We stopped outside of Beagle and prayed and left Special Memorial Stone B (we didn't walk through Beagle, and we wanted to save #100 for LaCygne). We placed the Beagle stone by a beautiful old church. Someplace between Beagle and Hwy 391 a big white dog came out to join us. We couldn't get him to go home. He was friendly with us, but not too friendly with our dogs. It was really hard getting them to keep going while he continued to follow us. We finally lost him when we went onto 391. Then we headed toward Fontana. Fontana is not on our route, but we walked past the turnoff for it. Then we turned on Hedge Lane heading toward LaCygne. We soon had to stop for the day since they were predicting snow and we needed to drive to Butler, MO to pick up JoAn at the bus stop.
We stopped in LaCygne at the Co-op to make sure they got our payment for the propane and to ask them about the turn off valve. I talked to the guy "who did have a truck" about the weather, and he showed me their radar screen. It looked like the snow was all around us, but clear where we were. But he told me it was coming.
We drove on to Butler, found the bus stop and then went to Wal-Mart to do some shopping. We received some money from someone for an advent item so Joni and I looked at Christmas stuff for ideas. We ended up with some real cute stockings to hang in the castle. They all have adorable teddy bears at the top connected to the stocking. Mine is purple, Sam's is blue, and Joni's is white and gold. Sam stayed in the car to sleep while Joni and I shopped. We got our stuff, then went to Hardee's across from the bus stop. We sat there and ate and waited for JoAn to come. I called Dave while we waited and we talked for quite awhile. Soon after we said good bye JoAn's bus came and I ran across the street to greet her and help her with her stuff.
We went back to Hardee's and the others greeted her and soon we headed out. The drive back to our castle was rainy and windy - especially after we got to Hwy 69. Soon we realized the rain had turned to a light snow blowing across the road. We arrived at our exit, and as I braked to a stop at the turn onto 152 I felt the car slide a bit. I immediately lifted my foot from the brake and all was fine. I had slowed very slowly so all was okay, but a good reminder. I drove very slowly on the side roads to our camp and had no problems.
We got parked and unloaded the car and showed Joan where things were. We visited a bit over cups of tea, then finally went to bed. It was midnight when I turned out the light.
December 10, 2003 - Wednesday - 2180.3 Total Miles to Date
299.8 Total KS Miles - Day 34- Snowbound Day
This Weeks Total Miles 26.1
Today I got up close to 7 AM. Everything was covered with snow and I knew we wouldn't be going out right away, so I let the others sleep in. It was really beautiful outside. I went ahead and did my *GAJ BIT. I hadn't finished that yet when one by one the others began getting up. Soon we were all up and talking. One by one we fixed our own breakfasts. Sam and Joni and I took the dogs out for a bit in the snow. JoAn couldn't understand why we wanted to go out in the snow. She has it all winter at home and has seen quite enough of it.
Waliluke absolutely loves the snow. He runs and rubs his nose in it, and he jumps and rolls in it. He and Cassie really had fun romping and playing in the snow. We talked to the guy who came around to collect the garbage. He said he no longer likes the snow because he has to work in it.
We really couldn't get out to walk today so we took advantage of the day to get a few things done and to just take it easy. We all have colds, so maybe it's good we had to take a day off and relax a bit. I even sat and read for awhile. Sam and I walked down to the office in the afternoon to pay for a couple more days. Waliluke went with us. When we got back to the castle we put him on his cable outside so he could play. Then we began the process of thawing out the handle for the dump so we could empty our black water. That took a bit of doing. We also had to fill the water tank so that we would have water since we are using it so much. We can't leave the water hooked up since it is so cold and could burst the pipes at the campground - that could cost us a bundle. Of course our hose was totally frozen so we had to bring it inside to thaw out so we could use it to fill the tank.
We watched a slide show of Joni's pictures from Colorado. Then when we ate dinner we watched the DVD of A Christmas Carol that someone sent us for one of our Advent gifts. That was cute - it was an animated one, and done quite different. Following the DVD JoAn put on her Santa hat and brought out a bag of gifts over her shoulder. She proceeded to give us each breathing masks in honor of our grasshopper kerchiefs to use when we get to places where the bugs are plentiful in the spring. Then she gave us each a pair of warm slipper socks, and an orange ball - each in different flavors. Finally she gave us each a certificate stating that we had walked across the center of the conterminous United States. We took lots of pictures and had a good time, tho' Waliluke didn't like for any of us to wear Santa hats.
I finally got started on my journal while the others got ready for bed. Then I took Waliluke out and headed for bed myself hoping we'll be able to get out tomorrow.
December 11, 2003 - Thursday - 14.4 + 2180.3 = 2194.7 Total Miles to Date
314.2 Total KS Miles - Day 35- Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles 40.5
Today I got up and turned on the pump only to find it wouldn't pump any water. Whether the pump is frozen, broken, or the tank of water frozen I don't know. The temperature dipped to 9 degrees last night so I have no idea how that affected things. Anyway we had another obstacle to overcome. Some of us went over to take showers and some just used the bath size wet ones. We hauled tap water from the restrooms to take care of some needs, and used our bottled drinking water for other things. We managed to get everything taken care of and finally got out the door after 11 AM I think. We did have heat at least.
After stopping to get gas we headed out to our start point northwest of LaCygne. When we parked to get ourselves started a car drove up and a man asked if we needed help. I told him what we were doing and he was very pleased. He said he owned the property where we were and just wanted to make sure we were okay. He wished us well. Then before we could get started my phone rang. I didn't have good service, but I could hear the man on the other end enough to know he was from the Osawatomie Press and wanted to come out to meet us sometime. I was able to let him know where we were and the direction we were headed, and he said he would probably be out in a couple of hours.
While Joni and JoAn and Cassie drove ahead a bit, Sam and Waliluke and I began walking. The snow was beautiful. I took several pictures of snow in the fields or on buildings or trees. It was fun to watch Waliluke. He absolutely loves the snow. He pounces at it and bites it and jumps in it just having a great time. Joni and crew joined us soon and we walked on toward LaCygne. It didn't seem like all that long before we reached the high school at the corner of 1095 and 152. There is a big sign there for LaCygne, so we prayed and left Memorial Stone #100 at that spot. Getting back out to the road from there I sunk in the snow up to my knees.
Joni and group drove on ahead to the town of LaCygne while we walked on. We had good phone service here so we both made a phone call. I called Dave and filled him in on all the latest. He leaves on Sunday to fly to Tennessee, then spend a night with A-K and family before driving to meet us with Lois. Sam talked with Lois for quite awhile.
Finally we reached LaCygne and walked through the town. Here the snow was slushy and muddy making it difficult to get around. We were glad to get back to the country area where it was easier to walk. We were able to get to the junction of 152 and 69 before we had to quit. Tomorrow we should walk into MO and then some! Yeah!!!!
We went back to our camp and left Joni and JoAn with both of the furry people while Sam and I drove to Ottawa, KS to meet Chip. He rode the bus in from Sweetwater, TN to spend a week and a half with us (well, with Sam). We got there in time to go to a Dairy Queen and eat, then went to wait for the bus. It was late, but not bad. Chip and Sam were very happy to see each other (that is an understatement!). After greetings we headed for Wal-Mart to get a few things we needed - mainly water since we have no on board water available. Finally we headed back to our camp. It's a long drive, but we got there and got settled, and finally got to bed. It's a bit crowded now with Joni and JoAn sleeping in the back room, Sam on the couch, Chip in the upper bunk, and me on the cot squeezed up between 20 bottles of water and the couch. Hmmm, very interesting. Joni, Sam and I all have colds - the two of them are almost over theirs, and I've just started mine. Oh, well.
December 12, 2003 - Friday - 15.0 + 2194.7 = 2209.7 Total Miles to Date
324.8 Total KS Miles - Day 36- Walking Day
4.4 Total MO Miles - Day 1 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles 55.5
This is our 7th monthaversary. Today we slept a bit later due to the cold weather and the water situation. Once we got up some of us had our *GAJ BIT and then breakfast. We got ourselves ready then we finally headed out and went first to pay for 3 more days at the office. Someone had gone into the ravine in their little red car. The people got out okay, but now had to get the car out. It really isn't that slick unless you're speeding or step on the brakes too hard. Hmmm.
Next we went to the Texaco station to get a few things and use the restrooms. Then we went to the start point and began walking. Roger Sims called just after we started, and said he would be out in about half an hour. He is with the Osawatomie Graphic. I immediately tried to reach Joni on her cell phone, but she didn't have it on. I tried again a bit later, but still no luck. I walked ahead pretty fast while Chip and Sam walked at a slower rate. I was hoping to get as close to where Joni and JoAn might be as possible when Roger came. Soon he came, took a few pictures as I was coming toward him, then stepped right in with me and began walking as he asked questions. It was great. We've never had a reporter that actually walked with us. He told me he didn't want to slow us down or make us cool off too much in this cold weather. That was very nice of him. He did a good interview with Sam and Chip and me, then Joni and JoAn drove up just in time for some more questions and some pictures at the van as well as pictures of all of us walking. I was so pleased that we were all there.
Finally we said good bye to Roger and he went his way while we went ours. Just before we got to the junction of 69 and 52 a wildlife preserve worker stopped to see if we needed help. His name was Brian and he was very nice, and wished us well as we went on our way. I did get his picture. Then we continued to the state line, arriving there at 2:45 PM. This was at 10.6 miles, so we took our 10 mile manna break there. We also had prayer time for both Kansas and Missouri and wrote the Memorial Stones for them - #'s 101 and 102. Finally we carried on.
Now it was getting quite cold and we wanted to do a few more miles. We tried to walk as fast as we could, but it was cold. Another man, (something) Wiley, stopped to see if we were okay. He was very interested in what we were doing. He had seen the car at the state line earlier. I got his picture also. Just after he left another car stopped right in the middle of the highway. A man asked if we needed a ride or anything and I told him what we were doing. He said, "You are?!" We didn't get his name or picture because he was in a pretty precarious place, but as he left he said, "Well GOD bless you." A little bit later we walked past a house and a man hollered to see if we needed a ride or anything. I hollered back, but couldn't make him hear me. Chip finally called back that we were walking across America. The man called back, "Okay" and went inside.
Soon Joni and JoAn picked us up and we got in and headed back to the castle. After unloading and eating dinner we did our journals and other stuff, then headed for bed.
December 13, 2003 - Saturday - + 2209.7 = Total Miles to Date 4.4 Total MO Miles - Day 2 - Snow Day
This Weeks Total Miles 55.5
Today I woke up first a bit after 3 AM. Looking outside I saw it was snowing. After I went back to bed and slept some more, I woke up the next time a bit after 5 AM. Then I stayed in bed and fell asleep for another half hour to 45 minutes, and ended up getting up at about 6:15 AM. It was still snowing. I got up and dressed and had my *GAJ BIT, then read for a bit until everyone got up. It was still snowing. I fixed a breakfast of corned beef hash and fried eggs while JoAn prepared toast. After we ate we had a sharing time since I really wanted to share some of the things from my *GAJ BIT with the others. It really dealt with things happening to us now.
Joni decided to do laundry since we weren't going to be walking today. Quickly we got things ready to wash. Then Joni, JoAn and I each carried a bag of laundry, and taking Waliluke and Cassie with us we headed for the laundry room across the snow. Part way across I noticed a whiter white on the snow in a line right beside Joni. Suddenly I realized it was the laundry detergent spilling out of the box. The bottom had fallen apart. I dropped Waliluke's leash and grabbed the detergent box. We still had enough for the laundry, thank goodness. Meanwhile Waliluke and Cassie ran and played and romped in the snow. When we finally went back I took pictures of the snow covered trees and van and castle. It really is so beautiful.
Most of the day was spent just relaxing, doing laundry, reading, and talking. We watched slide shows of pictures we've taken, snacked, and then finally ate dinner. We had lots of walks across the snow today to the restrooms and laundry room and back.
We also talked about different ideas for moving time to avoid a snowy day. The latest idea is to move tomorrow (Sunday) morning and either have our own church service or attend an evening service after we get moved. One of the reasons we're talking about that is that another snow storm is expected Tuesday when we were going to be taking Joni and JoAn to Kansas City. We're thinking we may want to take them on Monday instead, but we need to be moved before Joni goes home for Christmas. Anyway we'll play it by ear and decide what to do finally in the morning when we see what the weather and the roads are like.
It was a pretty good day overall considering we didn't get any walking in, but we did do a lot of restful and fun things.
December 14, 2003 - Sunday - 2209.7 = Total Miles to Date
4.4 Total MO Miles - Day 3 - Rest and Moving Day
Last Weeks Total Miles 55.5
Today we were up and about and getting ready to depart from LaCygne by noon or so. This is the first time we've moved on a Sunday, and hopefully the last. It was one of those rare circumstances where due to an incoming snow storm on Tuesday we're going to have to take Joni and JoAn to Kansas City a day early so we can be back before the snow hits. We needed to move before Joni left, so we decided to get moved on Sunday, have our own church service in the evening, then we could take the gals to Kansas City on Monday. That way we'll be back here before the snow hits - hopefully.
We got everything disconnected after getting several gallons of hot water from the laundry room to pour on slinky so we could drain him. Chip helped with the disconnecting, and soon we were ready. Joni, JoAn and I walked over to the office to let them know we were leaving a day early, and they refunded a day's amount.
Finally we headed out. JoAn rode with Joni and helped her in driving in the snow and ice. We knew that once we were out on the main road we'd be okay - it's just a matter of getting out there. I feel quite comfortable with it as long as I can go fairly slow - with the castle that's pretty workable. We made it out to the main road - no problem. Oh, yes, JoAn gave us some good pointers on a few things (both driving and other snow related things). When backing out always go forward when it begins to spin. By going back and forth like this you eventually get out. When walking on ice, walk flat footed and take little steps. Of course we already knew that if the car starts to slide we take our foot off the brake or gas pedal. Actually we drive with very light feet on the pedals in this stuff anyway. JoAn also taught us to heat the key in the car heater when the castle door lock freezes - it will eventually open. How nice that JoAn was here at a time when we needed to know these things. GOD does provide.
We stopped at the local Texaco station and got gas, then headed south on Hwy 69. We drove to Hwy 54 where we headed east, then stopped at El Dorado Springs for gas and to see about propane. The gal there told me they didn't have it, but she also told me about a couple of places that did have it, just not today.
Soon we came to the campground where we'll be staying - Arrowhead Point just outside of El Dorado Springs. It seemed to have more snow than the last place. We got checked in and settled pretty well. We connected the water for use this evening with the plan to unhook, drain and put it away when we're not here. While we're in Kansas City we'll look for some way to insulate so we can have our water hooked up all the time - especially since the pump doesn't always work.
After we had our dinner we had our church service with personal sharing and some singing - Christmas Carols. It was fun. Then Chip and Sam took Waliluke out, and then they unhooked the water and put the hose away. They took Chip's laundry over to the laundry room and talked while it was going. Joni and JoAn got ready for their trip to Kansas City and home, and soon we all went to bed.
The people here are Christians. They charged us for only 2 people, but said we can have as many as come. They are real nice - her name is Fran, and I'll have to find out what his is.
December 15, 2003 - Monday - 2209.7 = Total Miles to Date
4.4 Total MO Miles - Day 4 - Kansas City Express Day
This Weeks Total Miles -
Today I got up at about 5:30. The others were all up by 8 or 8:30, and we were ready and on the road by 10:15. I went in to see Fran (the campground owner) about propane before I left. She very graciously made some phone calls for me and lined up a fellow to come deliver it this afternoon. That's a big relief.
After leaving the campground we drove first to Butler where we went to the Bank of America, then the Post Office (one of the postal clerks asked if I was one of the walkers from the team -- he really peppered me with questions about the walk -- fun), then to the vet to get Cassie checked over and ready for her flight to California. Then to Wal-Mart to get a kennel for her flight. The sliding door on the van came off the track at one of our stops and we had to go to the Ford Dealer to see if we could get that fixed. No one ever told me what happened, and I really would rather not know. Anyway the guys at the Ford place kept looking out the window at the car and saying it couldn't be fixed. I kept saying I needed to get to Kansas City today to get a couple of gals to the airport, and they kept saying it couldn't be fixed. I kinda got the impression that "they ain't got no truck" (see Dec. 5). They finally did come out to the car and take a look at it, and tried to at least get it back on the track so it would close, but said they would have to pull it apart to see what was really wrong with it. They also said someone had tried to make an adjustment on it and that we shouldn't use it. So for the rest of the day everyone in the back seats had to climb in and out over the front seats. I don't know if these guys really know what they're talking about or not. There's a Ford Dealer in El Dorado Springs not far from our campground, so after Dave comes with the rental car maybe we can take it there. It needs servicing anyway.
While Joni was in at the vet's with Cassie I called Dave to see where he was. He and Alyce-Kay were walking from their home in Sweetwater to Chip's home. He and Lois will leave there tomorrow and head this way. They'll get here either Wednesday or Thursday.
We continued on to Kansas City. It was a long drive, but we finally came to the outskirts, then it was still another hour before we got to the motel where Joni and JoAn would be staying. Once we got them checked in, and unloaded their stuff from the car, we all piled back in and went to eat together. Chip treated us all. We were looking for pizza, and the best we could find was a combination Taco Bell/Pizza Hut. That suited us all, so in we went. After we ate we took Joni, JoAn and Cassie back to their motel and hugged our good byes, then we headed back to our campground. We'll miss Joni a lot, and JoAn was a BIG help with all her snow knowledge.
I drove to Butler listening to Chip read another chapter of The five Languages of Love to Sam. It's a good book, so I'm glad I get to listen in. At Butler I stopped for gas, then we continued on. We finally got to our turn off to 54 in Nevada (pronounced Nevayda by the locals) and on through El Dorado Springs and to our campground. After unloading Chip filled our tank with water, then went to the Rec. Room to do his devos while Sam did her *GAJ BIT in the castle. I worked on my journal (I did my *GAJ BIT this morning). Then I read my mail that we picked up this morning, and finally headed for bed.
December 16, 2003 - Tuesday - 12.2 + 2209.7 = 2221.9 Total Miles to Date
16.6 Total MO Miles - Day 5 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles - 12.2
Today we didn't rush to get going, but we didn't wait until real late either. We did have a long drive however, so it was still a fairly late start. Then we had to drive all the way to the Kansas border to put down the Memorial Stone #101 which we wrote several days ago, but didn't get it put down. Then we also put down the Stone #103 for Amoret, MO that we didn't get down the other day either.
We finally began our walk along Hwy 52 toward Butler. Virginia came first. Chip had driven the car into Virginia and walked back to meet us. He told us he had stopped at a pecan place and the guy had shown him how all the equipment worked and what they did. Since it was right on the road we stopped in when we got there as well. It was very interesting, and the couple running it were very nice. Their names were Ron and Sue Kurshner. They don't own the place, but the people who do were away getting the husband his cancer treatment in Oklahoma. The owners are Vernon and Mary. I told them we would certainly be praying for them. From the pecan place we went next door to the Methodist Church where we prayed for Virginia and left Memorial Stone #104. We prayed specifically for the Kurshner's and for Vernon and Mary Byrd.
Continuing on we eventually arrived at Butler. Chip had gone to do the shopping for us at Wal-Mart and the neighboring grocery store. He finished before we got there and met us just outside of Butler. We then asked him to meet us at Casey's service station. When we arrived there we filled out our forwarding cards and walked to the post office. There we got another piece of mail and turned in the forwarding cards, then took our 10 mile manna break. We then walked on down the road to head out of town, but it came to a dead end. That's what happens when we don't scout our route out. We walked back to the car and looked at the map. It really didn't help, so we decided to drive it and see what it did. It didn't go on anyplace, so we went back and down Hwy 71 toward Rich Hill and Nevada, MO. We've pretty much decided to go ahead and just walk down 71 and 54.
We stopped in Nevada so Chip could buy tickets to the "Lord of the Rings" movie for Lois, Sam and himself on Thursday night. This is a new one that is just coming out. Then on back to the castle where we had dinner, cleaned up, visited, and went to bed. Well I went to bed - Chip and Sam went to the Rec. Room to talk.
December 17, 2003 - Wednesday - 18.3 + 2221.9 = 2240.2 Total Miles to Date
34.9 Total MO Miles - Day 6 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles - 30.5
Today we got up and out soon after 9 AM. When I got up it was all frosty outside. Everything looked quite beautiful. Even the pond had frozen. We drove out to Butler where we first went to Wal-Mart and Country Market. I did the Wal-Mart shopping while Chip and Sam did the groceries. I had to get my prescription filled, so my stuff took a little longer.
Back at the car we drove out to our start point at 52/Business 71. We had the rock for Butler to place when we got to the sign. That came soon after we started. This was Memorial Stone # 105. Then we continued on down Hwy 71. This is a pretty busy highway, but it has very wide shoulders. There are 2 lanes each way. Dave called as we were walking, and told us that he and Lois were just crossing the Mississippi River at the place where we are planning to cross. They were on a ferry, which is what I plan for us to cross on as well. We walked pretty steady to Rich Hill, then we stopped for our 10 mile manna break, and we got gas. We also prayed for Rich Hill and placed Memorial Stone #106. Then we headed out again to get as much mileage as possible.
Chip was driving for us today, and he found a road on the side that paralleled the highway, so he called to tell us about it. We kept watching for it, but hadn't seen it after quite a long while. Then we saw him driving on it above us, so we crossed the ditch with water in it and went up to the road. As we headed toward the car (he had stopped where the road ended in a grassy area) my phone rang. Thinking it was Dave I quickly answered it. Sam went on up to the van. Chip was on the phone - he hadn't seen us and was surprised to suddenly see Sam there. He told us that when we get to the end of this side road we will have 18.3 miles, so on we went while he went to the other end to wait for us.
Just before we got to where Chip was waiting we had a car pull up beside us. It was a Missouri State Highway Patrolman. He asked if we were okay, and I told him what we were doing. He said he had received several calls from people on the highway saying they had seen flashlights on the side road and wondered if someone was having car trouble. He was quite pleased with what we were doing. I got a picture of him, and his card. His name is Trooper J. S. Baird - Badge 143. We assured him we were fine, told him our shuttle van was just down the street (we could see the parking lights on the van from where we were). We told Trooper Baird how much we appreciate it when people are concerned about our safety that way.
Right after the trooper left Dave called to see what our plans were for the evening, and where they should meet us. We agreed to meet at the castle. I told Sam that I was pretty sure they were already at the castle since he was very evasive when I asked him where they were. Arriving at the van we got in and headed off for the castle. It's only 9 or 10 miles to Nevada, MO from where we stopped, then another 30 or so to the campground where the castle is. Sure enough when we got to the castle Dave and Lois were in the Rec. Room. They had been there about an hour. We finally got everyone and everything in, got some dinner together, ate and visited. Lois, Sam and Chip went over to the Rec. Room for awhile. I finished journaling, washed the dishes, and headed for bed.
December 18, 2003 - Thursday - 12.3 + 2240.2 = 2252.5 Total Miles to Date
47.2 Total MO Miles - Day 7 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles - 42.8
Today I was up just after 5 AM and after my *GAJ BIT I got the others up and going. We were out by about 9 AM. We stopped at the Ford dealer in El Dorado Springs to see about getting the van serviced and all the other stuff done that needed doing. I gave them our card right at the beginning so that they knew what we were doing. The guy was really interested and helpful. We left the van with them and use te rental that Dave had for our day's walking.
Dave dropped us off at our start point and we walked along the highway for awhile, then eventually came to a side road that paralleled the highway - we found out later that it was the old highway. Dave met us after an hour. It is difficult for him to meet us as frequently as were used to, so I just told him to go into Nevada (MO) and come back every hour or so. That worked.
Lois walked with Chip and Sam quite a bit today, and I walked on ahead - they were going a lot slower than we usually do. I had a phone call from a lady named Dorothy with Women of Faith. She had called home to see if I had received their mailing, and Russ told her what I was doing and gave her my mobile number. He really encouraged her to call me, so she did. He also gave her the website, so she was going to check it out as soon as she got off the phone.
When we reached Nevada we turned onto Hwy 54 and met Dave, then called it quits for the day. It's a short day, but I'm really feeling the burden of things these days and it's wearing me down. The walking is no problem, but the problems of the castle (leaks, clogged toilet, water or no water, heat or no heat, finding someone that carries propane in this part of the country, etc. etc.) are really getting to me. Then all the van problems just add to the emotional wear and tear on me. I'm really struggling with what to do.
After quitting the walk for the day we went to get pizza, then back to El Dorado Springs to see about the car. They called while we were on the way there. They took care of most of the stuff okay, and checked out the door. It took them two hours to get the door open. Then they found the problem and let me know what they needed to do and what their timing would be. We told them to go ahead and order the part, that we could work around their timing since Dave has the rental car. We were able to go ahead and take the car tonight so that the young people could use it to go to their movie. Then tomorrow we'll take the car back so they can fix it as soon as they get the part. Sam and Chip and Lois went on into Nevada to see The Lord of the Rings, while Dave and I drove around El Dorado Springs to find a church for Sunday. Next we went back to the castle, unloaded the car and got the black water dumped, filled our clean water holding tank, and hooked up the hose for running water. I did my journal, the dishes and went to bed.
December 19, 2003 - Friday - 18.6 + 2252.5 = 2271.1 Total Miles to Date
65.8 Total MO Miles - Day 8 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles - 61.4
Today was an interesting day. I woke up at about 1:30 AM, didn't go back to sleep for 2 or 3 hours, then slept until about 5:30, got up and did my *GAJ BIT. The others woke up on their own pretty much. We had a problem with our toilet being totally clogged - that all began when we had snow all over and it froze up. It hasn't drained right since, and now it is just totally clogged. There have been so many problems in the castle with the onset of winter weather that this was just the final straw for me. Winter weather tends to set me into depression, and the leaks, and propane problems, and other things, and now this just really did me in this morning. I had a real rough time coming out of it enough to just get going. We finally went into El Dorado Springs to leave Lady Van Go at the Ford dealer's so they could finish up the repairs, then to McDonald's to eat breakfast.
At last we got started walking - at least it was a sunny day - a cloud covered day would just add to my depression. Dave ran errands in between meeting us about every hour. He went to Wal-Mart in Nevada and talked to some guy in the RV department about our clog. They gave him some ideas. He bought some RV T.P. thinking maybe we were using the regular stuff, but I assured him we always use the RV T. P.
As Dave was waiting for us at his first stop, a car stopped by me and a couple asked if we needed a ride anywhere. I told them what we were doing and gave them a card. Then I took their pictures and got their names. They were Christy and Bear from El Dorado Springs. When I asked their names he said, "Folks just call me Bear". Later in the day a gravel truck driver pulled over to the shoulder in front of me. As I got up to where he was he leaned out and said, "I just gotta know . . ." I laughed and told him what we were doing. He was real impressed and asked lots of questions. I got his picture and his name - Jay Emery. Then just a bit later another car pulled up with two gals who asked if we needed help. Same routine - they were AJ and Theresa from Stockton, MO. I told them we'd be walking through there in a few days - probably after Christmas now - and they told me there's not much left of the town right now, but they're rebuilding. It was hit by a tornado in May of this year.
Then a bit later another car honked and pulled into a driveway I was passing by. The guy got out and I recognized him as Jay Emery who had been driving the gravel truck earlier. He told me he sometimes does freelance writing for the newspaper, and had called the editor up to see if he thought our story would be a good one. The editor said he thought it would, and Jay came looking to find us. He had a tape recorder when he interviewed me. Chip and Sam caught up before long and Jay took pictures of the three of us walking and waving to cars. He was really excited about interviewing us, and felt it was truly a good story for their paper.
When we got to where Dave was waiting Chip got in and Lois got out. Chip went with Dave to get Lady Van Go while Lois, Sam and I continued walking. At one house a dog came running out to greet me. I decided to see if I could keep her occupied while Sam and Lois got Waliluke past. It didn't work. The other dog saw Waliluke and ran off to greet him. We continued walking trying our best to get the other dog to leave. No success until she decided to run in between two cars. The second one (a small truck) actually hit her slightly, but she rolled to the side, jumped up and started running as fast as she could for home. We were SO thankful that she wasn't hurt and that she was going home.
Finally we came to El Dorado Springs and walked to the east end of town where we'll be turning onto Hwy 32. There we met the guys and piled into the rental van to go to Pizza Hut for dinner. Dave and I had pasta with meat balls and sauce while the others had pizza. After pizza we drove back to the castle, tried a few things with the toilet that semi-worked, did journaled, washed dishes, then went to bed.
December 20, 2003 - Saturday - 16.0 + 2271.1 = 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 9 - Walking Day
This Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today I got up just after 5 AM again. After *GAJ BIT and getting everyone up I prepared hash browns and eggs. We ate, then I read them the Facts and Trivia on Tennessee - Chip had mentioned a few things, and had a question about the motto of The Volunteer State. This answered his question and agreed with the things he had said. He found out some things he didn't know - it was really interesting. We had fun with it. Then we had our prayer time and got ready to go. I went in to pay for one more night before we left for the day.
We didn't have too far to go this morning since we finished at this end of El Dorado Springs. We stopped first at McD's for restrooms, then started in on the walk. This was the beginning of Hwy 32. It is really a nice highway. The first several miles had nice wide shoulders. As we left town we placed Memorial Stone #108 at the El Dorado Springs sign. At one point a man stopped to ask what we were doing - he had seen us near Nevada yesterday morning, then near El Dorado Springs in the evening. Now seeing us along Hwy 32 he was really curious. I talked with him for awhile, gave him our card, took his picture and got his name - Kent Bland. (Toward the end of the day he drove by us one more time and waved at us.)
Once a large dog came out to greet Waliluke. We couldn't get him to go home. He followed us for about 45 minutes. As he walked along with us he would run into other yards along the way and recruit more dogs. At one point we felt like the pied piper leading our troop of dogs along. Dave met us finally, and Sam put Waliluke into the car until we could lose the dogs. They disappeared quick once Waliluke was out of the way.
At about time for our 10 Mile Manna break we came to the little town of Filley. The town seemed pretty dead. There was a covered picnic table area, so we ate our lunch there, took pictures, and prayed for Filley. We left a Memorial Stone (# 109) there by the tree. Finally we continued walking. I realized we wouldn't be able to get as far as Stockton, so I told the others they could enjoy the walk more and have some fun. They ended up in a snowball fight while I took Waliluke ahead with me. There wasn't a lot of traffic, but some. We quit for the day at the Cedar Creek Bridge on Hwy 32.
Then we drove back to where the other car was parked. Chip, Sam, Lois and Waliluke got into the other car and went on back to the castle via Subway for their dinner. Dave and I went to El Charro's Mexican Food. It was very good. Then we drove to Wal-Mart in Nevada (stopping at the Nevada sign to place the Memorial Stone #107 that we didn't have with us when we were there before) to look at cameras. We settled on one but they were out of them, so we'll try the Wal - Mart in Branson. Sam called to say that Janeece , Georgia's daughter, was at the camp. I asked how much longer she'd be there and they said only about half an hour. No way could we get back there in that time, so we just had to tell them to say hi to her for us.
We then finished our shopping and drove back to camp. We unloaded stuff and put it away, did the dump thing, and filled the water tank. Then I got ready for bed, washed dishes, and journaled before going to bed. I am really tired. It was a good day anyway.
December 21, 2003 - Sunday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 10 - Rest Day
Last Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today I got up at 6:30, did my *GAJ BIT and then began the process of getting all the others up. We left here at 9:45 to go to Park Street Christian Church in El Dorado Springs. We actually got there a bit earlier than I intended, but we went in and talked to some of the other people that had also gotten there early. They told us that church had been canceled last week because of the snow. That's something we don't ever think about since it just never happens in our area of the country. Anyway we were able to meet the pastor as well. He is young, very nice, still a student and single. He has an older brother named Chip - interesting. We only know that because he used Chip, his brother, in his sermon.
Anyway, the service was very good, with several Christmas songs, a skit by the youth, a very nice solo by one of the ladies, communion, and an excellent sermon by the pastor on the Doxology, and how it should apply to our daily lives. I was going to include some thoughts from my notes on his sermon here, but my bulletin seems to have gotten into the wrong car after church. We took two cars since Dave and I were scouting the route between here and Branson, then checking out RV Parks. The three young people were taking Lady Van Go back to the castle and spending the afternoon there. I guess I got a bit sidetracked here, but if I do find my bulletin I'll try to remember to put in some of my notes for the sermon.
So after church Dave and I headed for Branson via Hwy 32 to Springfield. The route along 32 is all quite nice, and at least by Walnut Grove a bike trail began and continued all the way to Springfield. It looked real nice - that will be a little relief from the traffic and from roads with no shoulders. At Springfield we found a tentative route through the town, but I want to get a local map to give us more options that aren't as busy as what we drove today. We followed Hwy 160 down from Springfield to the Branson area. Once there we looked for the WorldMark, then for campgrounds close by. It was a dead end trail on campgrounds. They all seemed to be closed for the season, or their showers weren't open, or they would be closing in a week - we need a place for about 3 weeks. Finally we found two RV Parks that were open with everything, and were close to our WorldMark. One is Gerth's, and one is Chastain's. Both were very nice, but Gerth's is cheaper. I think it will work nicely. We also checked at WorldMark about the possibility of parking the RV someplace and finding a kennel for the dog.
Finally we started home (to the castle) via Hwy 65 to 54. It took about 2 hours, and we stopped for gas and to get milk. I made a few phone calls while we were driving both ways. I called Darrol to wish him a Happy 40th Birthday. I also called Russ to see how he was doing and to let him know that Dorothy of Women of Faith had called me the other day. He told me she had called him back after she talked with me. We had a nice conversation. Then I called Georgia and talked with her for awhile. I also called Sam just to let her know where we were and about when we'd be back at the castle.
Finally we got back, and after getting stuff in I filled the water tank. We explained the options to the girls for the RV, and tentatively decided to leave the RV with the girls at Gerth's RV Park. Then Chip and Sam went over to the Rec Room, and I journaled. Finally I headed off to bed.
December 22, 2003 - Monday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 10 - Moving Day/Christmas Break
Last Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today we all tried to be up and about by 9 AM - of course, I was up much earlier, but some of the others had a hard time being up by 9, then we sat and talked a lot as we ate breakfast and such. Finally we began packing stuff up and getting it all ready to move. I talked to Fran at the office and told her good bye - she and her husband, Raymond, have been very good to us while we've been here.
I think it was about 10:30 or 11 AM when we finally left Arrowhead Point and headed east to Collins. At Collins we parked the castle at a service station lot and went in the van to the post office to get our mail and leave our forwarding address. Then we headed south. Dave drove the rental van, Chip drove Lady Van Go with Sam as his passenger, and I drove the castle with Lois as my passenger and assistant. The drive went well. We had some light rain, but nothing big as we drove. At Springfield I stopped to get gas and see if we could find propane - no luck on the propane.
On to Branson next. Dave took the lead when we got to the Branson area so that I could follow him to the RV Park. He did a good job of leading. I would have had a hard time. I think I remembered all but the last turn, but that was an important one. We were both very thankful that we had driven down yesterday to scout this out.
I went into the office to check in. When I told the gal we would be here about three weeks she immediately asked if we were the ones walking across America. We had talked to a fellow yesterday when we were here and given him our card, and he had shown it to this gal and told her about us. That was good. Anyway she wanted two of our cards so she could put them up on their bulletin board with each side showing. She was really sweet. She put us down to pay when we leave rather than up front so that they can decide how they will charge us - that generally means some sort of discount. Also we're not exactly sure how long we will be here - at least three weeks, maybe longer.
We found our spot and got set up. We let Chip and Sam go off together to get something to eat while Lois, Dave and I set up, since they would be parting soon. We were going to wait to hook up and all until we got propane, but when I checked our propane level we decided we had enough for several days, so we went ahead and set up.
At about 4:15 PM we all got into Lady Van Go and drove to Springfield to take Chip to the bus station. Once we found it we had plenty of time, so we went to a Sonic to eat our dinner. Back to the bus depot - a very nice depot, I might add - where I stayed in the car with Waliluke while the others went inside. I did get out to say good bye to Chip and give him a hug. He asked if it would be okay for him to join us again in March during his school break. I told him certainly. Dave came back out to the car after a bit while Lois stayed with Chip and Sam. I know they had a hard time saying good bye. Chip's bus was a bit late so the farewell was prolonged.
After the bus took off Sam and Lois came on out and we headed back to Branson. It was now beginning to rain quite a bit. It rained off and on all the way back - at times really hard. We stopped at Wal-Mart in Springfield to see if they had the camera we were looking for, but they didn't. So on to Branson. During all of this driving to and from Springfield I kept trying to get Russ on the phone. We had heard on the news that a 6.5 earthquake had hit Paso Robles and some buildings had toppled and people killed. Much to my surprise I did finally get through to Russ at about 7 or 7:30 PM - the earthquake hit at about 11 AM Pacific time (1 PM our time here). He said he was fine, our house was fine, but the clock tower downtown had been renovated (destroyed). Dave's "End of the Trail" statue fell and broke, Russ' dragon statue fell and broke, and a sand picture broke. Other than that things seem to be okay there. He didn't know who was killed in the quake yet - they hadn't released the names. I asked him to let us know when he did hear who they were if possible. We do know so many people in Paso.
As to damage downtown in Paso, the clock tower and its building collapsed, and a few other buildings either fell or were badly damaged. Russ was without power or phone service for 4 hours, then it was on for 10 minutes and off again, but came back on soon after that. We were the first ones to get through to him. It was good to talk with him anyway. I also talked with Gail and Jerry a bit later.
Back at the castle we got ready for bed and went to sleep. A long day mixed with good and bad happenings. For Sam it was a very sad day as Chip said good bye and headed home. It was very sad for Chip as well.
December 23, 2003 - Tuesday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 11 - Christmas Break
Last Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today we got up slowly and lazily. I was up early as usual, but the others were later. We had a repairman coming sometime after 8 AM. By 9 AM he still hadn't shown up, so I called to see what was happening since Dave and I wanted to run a few errands. He had problems with his truck and was just about ready to head over. He came soon, looked at our holding tank that was all backed up into the toilet and quickly discovered we didn't have a "clog" problem, but a broken handle - the handle that pulls the drain open and closed to allow it to drain into the sewer connection. He needed to get the part from his parts office on wheels. This was back at his home since he was having some mechanical problems with it. So he said he would be back in the afternoon with that. He did indeed "have a truck" (see Dec. 5), and seemed quite "with it".
Dave and I went on out to run some errands - the girls chose to stay at the castle with Waliluke. We went to look at cameras and find a place to get copies made for our big update/Christmas letter. We went to two Wal-Marts and decided on a Samsung digital camera. At the second Wal-Mart the department manager helped us, and seemed to be quite knowledgeable. While we were in the parking lot after buying the camera and Dave was on the phone, I saw Randy's RV repair go by with the trailer attached. We stopped and got cokes then headed straight for the castle. Randy was there working on the valve handle already. After he finished, I wrote a check for him and we talked just a bit with him. Now we don't need to run over to the camp restrooms every time - yeah!
We still had to find a copy place, so Dave and I headed out again - the girls still preferred to stay at the castle. We stopped at a store to ask about a copy place, and the guy told us how to get to Office Max. We also needed the post office, so he gave us directions to that as well. We went to the post office first and picked up our mail - only a package for Sam. Then we found the Office Max which turned out to be a Staples. We were able to get our letters copied there, buy envelopes and stickers, etc. Then we went to check in at our WorldMark Resort where Dave and I will be staying until New Year's Day. Once we checked in and looked at the suite we went back to the castle. The girls are really excited about staying in the castle with Waliluke while Dave and I stay at the resort. We can't have dogs at the resort, and they preferred to stay at the castle rather than put Waliluke in a kennel. It's a very safe campground where I feel totally comfortable letting them do that.
We had dinner at the castle with the girls, then we said good night to them and went back to Staples to pick up our copies and then to our resort for the night. We have a 3 bedroom suite since we had originally planned for Alyce-Kay and family to join us. But then they moved to Tennessee and we saw them as they were on their way. Since they were just getting settled into their new home it wasn't really practical for them to turn around and come back to be with us here. It was too late for WorldMark to change us to a one bedroom, so here we are with just two of us in a big three bedroom suite. Oh, well, we'll enjoy it.
We watched the news trying to get anymore news on the Paso Robles earthquake we could. They did show our CA governor walking through Paso with Mayor Frank Mechum. It looks pretty bad. So much of the area on 12th Street is destroyed or damaged. We were also able to get a newspaper earlier with pictures of Paso on the front page, and more pictures on page 5. It was a good article that went with the pictures. The two women killed were not ones we knew - one was 19 year old Jennifer Myrick of Atascadero and the other was 55 year old Marilyn Zafuto. How sad for their families. I've added Paso and the area to our prayer list. It will be a big job cleaning up and rebuilding in the next months.
Finally we turned off the TV and headed for bed.
December 24, 2003 - Wednesday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 12 - Christmas Break
Last Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today I got up late and took a shower - ummm, that felt good. I scrubbed my hair and my skin real good. Then I filled the tub with nice hot water and turned on the jets and sat and soaked. After three weeks of sponge baths it really felt SO good! In case those of you reading this are wondering, we had two weeks at a place with yucky showers that I couldn't bring myself to walk through the icy snow to get to, so I chose instead to sponge bathe. Then the next week we moved to a camp that had closed their showers down for the winter. It's that way more and more - there are very few campgrounds that stay open this time of year and the ones that do often close their showers. It makes sense since they have to winterize everything around here to keep it from freezing, but it makes it difficult for us.
Finally I went out to the sitting room to do my *GAJ BIT. After that Dave came out and we got ready to go out. I called the girls to see if they were up and if they wanted to go to breakfast with us. They were up, and they had eaten already. So we went out to breakfast by ourselves. I don't remember the name of the place we went to, but we had a very good breakfast. We also got a list of places that would be open for Christmas.
Then we went to the castle. The lady we met in the office the day we arrived here brought us a gift wrapped loaf of bread she had made - she and her husband are full timers here at the RV Park. After a bit the girls and I got laundry together and headed over to the WorldMark Resort via the grocery store to get a few items. We stopped in the office at the resort to get some movies to watch while we did laundry. We also worked on folding, labeling and stuffing our GAJ letter. We have 600 of these to do.
Then we went back to the castle where we visited a bit, then we headed out in Lady Van Go to drive through the Trail of Lights at Shepherd of the Hills. This was very pretty with all different theme sections. At the end we got to go up in the tower and look down over it all. Then at the gift shop we all got hot cider. Then back to the castle where we soon said good night to the girls and we headed off to the resort.
There we watched some Christmas programs while I continued with the laundry and worked on our GAJ letters. It was after midnight and into Christmas when we finally went to bed.
December 25, 2003 - Thursday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 13 - Christmas Day
Last Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today I woke up late - about 7 PM, dressed, had my *GAJ BIT, and finished the laundry. I also made blueberry muffins to take to the castle for all of us. I made a few phone calls to some relatives trying to get in touch with some rather distant relatives in nearby Springfield that we're hoping to see while we're in this area.
We went over to the castle at about 11:30 taking the clean laundry with us. When we got there we sat and visited a bit, then we went to the Country Grand Buffet to eat our Christmas dinner. Oh the choices - we really enjoyed ourselves. I ate plenty, but didn't feel stuffed - just comfortable.
Back at the castle we enjoyed watching DVD's of Little House On The Prairie. One of them was a Christmas one that had Wendy and Brenda in it playing Gracie. In that particular one the Ingalls got snowed in. It showed a blizzard that snowed all night leaving several feet of snow on the ground. The scene gave me shivers as I thought of the small amount (in comparison) that we had, and how little I enjoyed it. It was very pretty at first, and fun to watch coming down, but I'm afraid I tired of it quite quickly - I am just not a snow or cold weather person.
After an afternoon of movies I did my journaling and we ate some of the bread that the lady from camp brought to us, then we headed back to the WorldMark. There we watched some TV before going to bed.
December 26, 2003 - Friday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 14 - Christmas Break
Last Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today I slept in again - until almost 7 AM. After my *GAJ BIT we got ready to go for our appointment to pick up our half price tickets - first we had to listen to a sales talk, but it was worth it to get the tickets to the hottest show in town (The Dixie Stampede) at half price. It makes a nice Christmas gift to give to Sam and Lois, and it's the only way we could all four go.
When we finished with our thing I had a message from Sam on my phone. The girls had walked to Wal-Mart with Waliluke, but he was hyper and they didn't want to try to walk back to the castle with him like that. I called her back and then we went to meet them via the propane place to see what their hours were. When we got to Wal-Mart we found Sam outside with Waliluke. I stayed with Waliluke while she went in to find Lois. She called me in a few minutes and said that Lois was still going to be awhile. I called her back a bit later and told her that we would take Waliluke with us to go get something to eat. At about 3 PM we went back to Wal-Mart and got the girls.
We went back to the castle, disconnected everything and drove it over to get propane. Once that was done we took it back to the campground and got it set up again. Then we went to get some dinner at Taco Bell, rented a couple of DVD's, and watched them at the castle while we ate. After we ate Dave and I left and went back to the Wal-Mart. We watched a bit of TV and then headed for bed.
December 27, 2003 - Saturday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 15 - Christmas Break
Last Weeks Total Miles - 77.4
Today we picked the girls up at about 9 AM, and were soon on our way to Carthage to the Precious Moments Inspiration Park. It took about 2 hours to get there. We went first to the Welcome Center where we found out that everything is free today - wow! That saved us about $68! We found out later that the whole week between Christmas and New Years is free. We were able to see pretty much everything in the park.
A shuttle takes you around to everything since it covers about 22,000 acres. We went first to the Fountain of Angels Christmas Musical, then stayed for the regular Fountain of Angels Musical. Both were very good and quite beautiful with beautiful dancing fountains as the music played.
Next we went to the Wedding Island and toured the buildings there, then to the Pink Ribbons Crusade Exhibit. This is a year and a half long exhibit of Princess Diana's and other royal clothes and pictures and memorabilia. From there it was back to the Welcome Center and on to the Precious Moments Chapel. That was really beautiful. Then outside to see everything all lit up after dark. Finally we headed on back to Branson. We stopped to get gas, then at Mt. Vernon to eat some dinner at Sonic's.
Finally we got back to Branson, took the girls to the castle, said good night and headed back to the WorldMark. Again we watched some TV and I did my journaling and headed for bed.
December 28, 2003 - Sunday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 16 - Christmas Break
Week Before Last Total Miles - 77.4
Today I was up at about 6 AM, showered and had my *GAJ BIT, and we got ready to go over to pick up Sam and Lois. After picking them up we went to the First Presbyterian Church of Branson. One couple at the church made it a point to meet us and talk with us a bit. After they found out what we were doing they went to find the pastor and bring him back to us. They introduced us and the pastor asked a few questions and made some notes. Then it was time to go in.
They sang Christmas music mostly- very nice. There was a solo by a lady who had an incredible voice - she sang Ring the Bells. Then the pastor had a stand and introduced us and told the congregation a bit of what we are doing. They were most appreciative. The pastor gave an excellent message on GOD's comfort when we hurt and our responsibility to share that comfort with others when they need it.
After the service we were able to talk with quite a few people, in fact we were the last ones to leave. I got pictures of the church and of the pastor and his wife. Gene and Barbara Byron are actually the assistant pastor couple, but the senior pastor was away so they were leading the service. We then stopped in at Taco Bell for a little food and back to the castle to eat and talk.
Then Dave and I went to Wal-Mart and to the supermarket for a few things. I got new Team shirts for us for Sundays and dress up times. They were a good price and kind of different from anything we have. When we finished the shopping we took some things to our WorldMark suite, then to the castle to get the girls and head for the Dixie Stampede - the hot show we got tickets for by listening to the sales pitch yesterday. The show included a dinner of a whole roasted chicken, a slice of baked pork, a wonderful tasting biscuit, a creamy veggie soup, corn on the cob, and a delightful dessert pastry. The show was really fun! They had horses and races and singing and comedy - a little bit of everything.
I bought my Missouri earrings at the Dixie Stampede gift shop. Then we headed back to the castle, got things in and said good night to the girls and headed back to the suite. There we worked on journals and on labels and watched a bit of TV before heading to dreamland.
December 29, 2003 - Monday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 17 - Christmas Break
Week Before Last Total Miles - 77.4
Today we were up and about a little later, but I did get our blueberry muffins baked and ready to take back to the castle. I baked 6 small tins of the mix - 3 for us to keep, and 3 to take to the girls - then I forgot to take theirs when we went over to the castle. We were with them for a little bit, then Dave and I headed to Springfield - the girls wanted to stay and do stuff at the castle.
We arrived in Springfield at about 2 PM and went to visit Jack and Ruth Evans, clients of Dave's. They moved here from Fremont, CA about a year ago. What a nice couple. I really enjoyed them. They gave us a tour of their beautiful home. Then we went out to dinner together at the Cracker Barrel - our first time to eat at a Cracker Barrel. We've seen them quite a bit, but haven't had a chance to eat at one, so this was perfect. It was a delightful time. We went back to the Evans' home and took a picture of them, then Jack offered a prayer for us. We said good bye for now and headed back to Branson.
Back at the castle we sat with the girls for a bit, and Dave printed our return address labels. Both girls had dyed their hair a pretty red color. They looked cute. Now again Chip can ask for the cute little redhead and Sam will actually have red hair. Her hair had pretty much lost its red color from before, but Chip still called her the cute little redhead.
We went back to the WorldMark where we met a man staying in Rm 104 with his wife. We got to talking in the parking lot, and after mentioning what I was doing he asked a few questions, then said, "Keep warm as you walk". It turned out he was in the business of selling a special type of long underwear. He ended up bringing us a couple of pair to try out. They are really nice - very soft and comfortable, but made with metal thread. They are made by Nikken. The man's name is Norvin Lanz. We didn't meet his wife, but her name is Bonnie. We'll see about whether or not we decide to buy some or not - it is on the expensive side, but oh so good.
After Norvin left I did my journal and headed for bed.
December 30, 2003 - Tuesday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 18 - Christmas Break
Week Before Last Total Miles - 77.4
Today we got a fairly early start picking up the girls at about 9 AM and heading toward the Lake of the Ozarks to get together with Dave's niece, Debbie, and family. We stopped in Springfield at the Visitor's Center to get some maps and info on bike trails for walking through the area. Next stop - Buffalo, MO - for drinks and restrooms. Then we continued to the town of Osage Beach where we stopped to get a bite to eat. From there it was only a short distance to Debbie and Tim's dairy. We leashed Waliluke to a tree on his 20 foot cable, then went inside hoping that their dogs would wander over and get acquainted with Waliluke. Walls wanted them to come over and play with him so bad, but they never did. He was just too hyper for their older dogs.
We had a fun visit - mostly with Debbie, but Tim and "T" (Tim Jr.) were also there for awhile. "T" is 25 now - we last saw him in 1995. After awhile Tim left to go feed the cattle, then soon after that "T" left for his place. Later Brianne, Josh's wife, came with their son, Dillon. Dillon is 2, and ever so cute. Tim was also back, and Dillon went right for "PaPa". Meanwhile Debbie prepared a dinner of venison, mashed potatoes and corn on the cob. They hunt the deer that come across their property. Tim has mounted several deer heads and wild turkeys, and they hang on almost every wall in the house. Hmmm, Joni might not be too happy here. The four of us had never had venison before, but found it to be quite tasty. We had a delightful visit with everyone.
Tim and Debbie want to sell their herd of dairy cattle since both Josh and "T" have decided on other occupations. Keeping up with the milking and other chores is getting to be too much for them by themselves. They also raise beef cattle. They butcher all the meat for their own use, but sell the rest of their cattle to commercial butchers. The "Mad Cow" scare kind of has them in limbo along with other cattle ranchers.
We finally left after Josh came. I think it was about 8 PM. We stopped in Preston for gas and restrooms, then on to Springfield for another restroom stop. An hour or so later we were back at the RV camp where we got the girls and Waliluke settled. We also filled the water tank and coiled the water hose under the castle - frost coming tonight. Saying good night to the girls we headed back to WorldMark with both vans. It was about midnight and we were tired so headed for bed soon after. It was a long, but good day.
December 31, 2003 - Wednesday - 2287.1 Total Miles to Date
81.8 Total MO Miles - Day 19 - Christmas Break
Week Before Last Total Miles - 77.4
Today I got up at about 6 AM, dressed and had my *GAJ BIT, then took Lady Van Go to the Ford place to get a new seat belt put in the rear passenger seat - one of three that Waliluke destroyed. I got there at about 8 AM and just sat in the waiting room working on maps while I waited. It took about an hour and a half. On the way back to the WorldMark I stopped at McDonald's and picked up breakfast, then at our suite I took breakfast in on a tray to Dave, and we both ate breakfast in bed.
Then I worked on laundry, and on our GAJ report/Christmas letter until the girls called to say they were finally up and about. We went over to the castle and Dave stayed with Waliluke while Lois, Sam and I went to the post office (a long line so we didn't wait), then to Wal-Mart. Lois got her ears pierced, then the three of us went up to the WorldMark suite to watch a video we had checked out a few days before, and to do laundry. We also did some baking so that we wouldn't have to use our propane to do some of the things we wanted to make. We baked the food, then put it into storage containers to put in our castle freezer or fridge. We were at the suite until around 7 PM more or less. Then we went back to the castle and put things away. Joni called (she had called last night and left a message) to wish us a Happy New Year. She's had the flu, but sounded better than she did last night on her message.
We took the girls to rent some DVD's to watch while they waited for the New Year, then back to the castle to leave them. Dave and I went back to the suite to finish laundry, watch TV and see the New Year in. I fell asleep after about 1 AM while we were watching a video.