Date 6/27
Weather: Foggy and rainy
Expense
$15 food
$48 gas
$4 Spokane tour
$6 rain poncho
$15 campground
$88 today
$408 for the trip
Mileage: 521 today, 1,911 for the trip
Beer: 0 today, 10 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum46.html
I started out early today. I got up gather what little I had around me and was ready. I left a thank you note to Eric, Jennifer, and George. I think people around here figured out something we have not. Small towns seem to be getting big town conveniences without big town headaches.
It was a scenic drive through Montana, Idaho, and Washington. I thought I was starting to get tough arse like truckers now since I’ve driven a large sum of miles. I got to see a number of deer today. Until now I have seen dead deer on the road, or behind bars in zoos, or in pictures. I saw stags, does, and fawns. Cool! Boy, can they jump those barbed wired fences! Wild lives are so majestic. Why would anyone want to trophy hunt? I understand if you must hunt for their meat than it is another. Well, I digress.
Well, I saw more Les Schwab Tire Centers. They are also in Washington. I felt they are following me. Hmmmm! Why don’t we have Les Schwab in Arizona? Is he too good for Arizona?
I stopped at Spokane intending to spend a whole afternoon. It was raining there. Oh, well. I got some information from the visitor center. I decided to check out Riverfront Walk, where a World’s Fair was held (in 1972?). There was a trolley tour for four dollars. It was interesting and I took some pictures but Mother Nature did not want me to stay in Spokane. I got annoyed with rain and left Spokane after little over two hours. It is a nice little town but not enough for me to stay.
I made another stop in Yakima. It seemed like a good place. I drove around town a little to figure out where I can stay. I stopped at Yakima Valley Community College for a quick thirty-minutes run. It felt good to be out there moving my legs.
I ate a salami and cheese sandwich, Oreos, and a nectarine for dinner at a near by park. It tasted fine but I decided to push on today. I drove to a campground near Mount Rainier for the night. I guess I was too tired to make it to the national park. I was happy to brush my teeth and wash up before hunkering down for a slumber.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Monday, July 04, 2005
Day 7 - Another glorious day in MT
Date 6/26
Weather: Sunny
Expense
$17 lunch
$320 total
Mileage: 0 for today, 1,390 for the trip
Beer: 3 today, 10 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum44.html
I got up and read some more of A Farewell to Arms this morning. When Rick, Colby’s father in-law, came, then we went fishing. Eric, Colby’s brother in-law, told me this is the secret spot, which would guarantee catching of a fish. It sounded great. I am ready to get off my not-catching-fish schnide.
We went somewhere, I cannot tell you where the secret fishing hole is since it is Eric’s fishing hole, and stopped. We all got out and walked away and made sure all the passing traffic left before heading into the fishing hole. I think Eric really loves this spot and wants to guard it.
I think Colby caught a small trout, I mean tiny, before kept moving to find a good spot. I kept moving and find a spot where I had three bites but no fish. I took some pictures and watched Rick’s beautiful casting technique. It is a sight to behold. I took a picture of him fishing. After a quick three hours of so of fishing, we came out. I took a group picture of us. It was a great time even without any fish. I will get’em some time.
It was time to take Colby back so he could return home to his wife. We were all sad to see him go but I guess we all understand he should go. I took a picture of Colby in his rental yellow convertible Beetle.
Rick and I decided on greasy hamburgers for lunch at Bulldog’s, but Eric needed to finish his Montana biathlon (fishing and golfing). Rick and I had garlic burgers with a couple of beers each. What more can you ask for? We watched ladies open (golf) on the tube while we ate. Rick told me his ordeal with his recent car accident. Bummer! At least his experience with the other insurance company was pleasant.
We returned after picking up a twelve pack as Rick’s wife, Bish, requested. I think we took turns taking a “power nap.” Oh, will the good times never end?
Bish made dinner for us. Eric grilled steaks after he came back from golfing with his buddies, who apparently are visiting from elsewhere. I enjoyed all of the food on my plate. I ate steak chunks, baked potato, salad, and a corn. I was full and content. Here is coup de grace, moist brownies for dessert. Bish even got everyone to eat salad so everyone could consume brownies. Mmm, brownies.
I decided to take Eric’s offer and stay at his house another night. I’d head out to Spokane tomorrow.
Note to self: Are there any more Les Schwab tire centers around the country? So far I found them in Utah, Idaho, and Montana. According to Eric, Schwab gives away meat with tire purchases. Now there is an idea. Give away hunk o’ meat.
Weather: Sunny
Expense
$17 lunch
$320 total
Mileage: 0 for today, 1,390 for the trip
Beer: 3 today, 10 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum44.html
I got up and read some more of A Farewell to Arms this morning. When Rick, Colby’s father in-law, came, then we went fishing. Eric, Colby’s brother in-law, told me this is the secret spot, which would guarantee catching of a fish. It sounded great. I am ready to get off my not-catching-fish schnide.
We went somewhere, I cannot tell you where the secret fishing hole is since it is Eric’s fishing hole, and stopped. We all got out and walked away and made sure all the passing traffic left before heading into the fishing hole. I think Eric really loves this spot and wants to guard it.
I think Colby caught a small trout, I mean tiny, before kept moving to find a good spot. I kept moving and find a spot where I had three bites but no fish. I took some pictures and watched Rick’s beautiful casting technique. It is a sight to behold. I took a picture of him fishing. After a quick three hours of so of fishing, we came out. I took a group picture of us. It was a great time even without any fish. I will get’em some time.
It was time to take Colby back so he could return home to his wife. We were all sad to see him go but I guess we all understand he should go. I took a picture of Colby in his rental yellow convertible Beetle.
Rick and I decided on greasy hamburgers for lunch at Bulldog’s, but Eric needed to finish his Montana biathlon (fishing and golfing). Rick and I had garlic burgers with a couple of beers each. What more can you ask for? We watched ladies open (golf) on the tube while we ate. Rick told me his ordeal with his recent car accident. Bummer! At least his experience with the other insurance company was pleasant.
We returned after picking up a twelve pack as Rick’s wife, Bish, requested. I think we took turns taking a “power nap.” Oh, will the good times never end?
Bish made dinner for us. Eric grilled steaks after he came back from golfing with his buddies, who apparently are visiting from elsewhere. I enjoyed all of the food on my plate. I ate steak chunks, baked potato, salad, and a corn. I was full and content. Here is coup de grace, moist brownies for dessert. Bish even got everyone to eat salad so everyone could consume brownies. Mmm, brownies.
I decided to take Eric’s offer and stay at his house another night. I’d head out to Spokane tomorrow.
Note to self: Are there any more Les Schwab tire centers around the country? So far I found them in Utah, Idaho, and Montana. According to Eric, Schwab gives away meat with tire purchases. Now there is an idea. Give away hunk o’ meat.
Sunday, July 03, 2005
Day 6 - A full day in Montana
Date 6/25
Expense
$15 food
$25 license
$20 flies
$60 today
$303 for the trip
Mileage: 0 today, 1,390 for the trip
Beer: 3 today, 7 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum43.html
I got up early and worked on my journal some more. Everyone woke up around eight. Colby decided to treat everyone to beer batter pancakes and bacon. Mmmmmm, bacon! I got to finish a half can of PBR. It was gross. It was pretty good to start a lazy morning with a full stomach.
Colby and I got into a yellow convertible beetle, which was dubbed a gay parade car, for a ride into Glacier National Park. We took the top down and drove. Wow, I need to get a convertible or at least a sun roofed car.
We first stopped at a sport store to get me a two-day fishing license. It was twenty-five dollars. I hoped I would catch a fish or two to make it worthwhile. We then drove through the western entrance. There were many picturesque moments including weeping walls, a mountain goat, two big horn sheep, and lakes. I was very close to big horn sheep just after Logan’s Pass. It was close to enough for me to take awesomely close up of them with my lousy 3x zoom camera.
We exited out of the eastern entrance, and stopped to pick up a baguette and Gouda. I was so impressed with Colby’s European-ness. We stopped at a lake at Two Medicine and ate cheese and bread. It was just awesome. I take it I was also hungry.
Well, enough about that. This day is about fishing. Colby wanted to try two places in Midfork. First place was already being fished by a group of people. We also struck out anyway. I relearned to tie flies and cast poorly, so it was not all lost.
The next spot was a good one. Colby proclaimed, “I will not be skunked today!” Colby hooked and reeled one in no time. I was glad to see that. I got some pointers from Colby, as I was not doing so well. I started to get some bites. In fact I had more than seven bites, but did not reel them in. It turns out I need to pull back on the rod. That makes sense. Oh, well. Maybe tomorrow is the day.
Colby’s in-laws are vacationing in town, and I am to stay with them tomorrow night. We got in touch and were meeting them. We stopped at Dire Wolf to order two pizzas and had beers.
We arrived at this ski resort condo where the in-laws were staying. What a view! It is nice to be in Whitefish, MT. Dinner was great. We scarfed down the pizzas. George, the baby, seemed keen on them.
On the way back to Eric’s, we stopped at Great Northern. We had a Guinness each and talk about how great today turned out. I also kept one eye on a horde of women coming through. We speculated that there must be a bride’s party. I don’t think today could gone any better minus no fish.
Expense
$15 food
$25 license
$20 flies
$60 today
$303 for the trip
Mileage: 0 today, 1,390 for the trip
Beer: 3 today, 7 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum43.html
I got up early and worked on my journal some more. Everyone woke up around eight. Colby decided to treat everyone to beer batter pancakes and bacon. Mmmmmm, bacon! I got to finish a half can of PBR. It was gross. It was pretty good to start a lazy morning with a full stomach.
Colby and I got into a yellow convertible beetle, which was dubbed a gay parade car, for a ride into Glacier National Park. We took the top down and drove. Wow, I need to get a convertible or at least a sun roofed car.
We first stopped at a sport store to get me a two-day fishing license. It was twenty-five dollars. I hoped I would catch a fish or two to make it worthwhile. We then drove through the western entrance. There were many picturesque moments including weeping walls, a mountain goat, two big horn sheep, and lakes. I was very close to big horn sheep just after Logan’s Pass. It was close to enough for me to take awesomely close up of them with my lousy 3x zoom camera.
We exited out of the eastern entrance, and stopped to pick up a baguette and Gouda. I was so impressed with Colby’s European-ness. We stopped at a lake at Two Medicine and ate cheese and bread. It was just awesome. I take it I was also hungry.
Well, enough about that. This day is about fishing. Colby wanted to try two places in Midfork. First place was already being fished by a group of people. We also struck out anyway. I relearned to tie flies and cast poorly, so it was not all lost.
The next spot was a good one. Colby proclaimed, “I will not be skunked today!” Colby hooked and reeled one in no time. I was glad to see that. I got some pointers from Colby, as I was not doing so well. I started to get some bites. In fact I had more than seven bites, but did not reel them in. It turns out I need to pull back on the rod. That makes sense. Oh, well. Maybe tomorrow is the day.
Colby’s in-laws are vacationing in town, and I am to stay with them tomorrow night. We got in touch and were meeting them. We stopped at Dire Wolf to order two pizzas and had beers.
We arrived at this ski resort condo where the in-laws were staying. What a view! It is nice to be in Whitefish, MT. Dinner was great. We scarfed down the pizzas. George, the baby, seemed keen on them.
On the way back to Eric’s, we stopped at Great Northern. We had a Guinness each and talk about how great today turned out. I also kept one eye on a horde of women coming through. We speculated that there must be a bride’s party. I don’t think today could gone any better minus no fish.
Day 5 - Off to Montana
date 6/24
Weather: Cloudy
Expense
$5 on lunch
$30 on gas
$35 for today
$243 for the trip
Mileage: 672 for today, 1,390 for the trip
Beer: 2 for today, 4 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum42.html
I woke up to Michelle tapping my shoulder at five. Normally I would be up but I guess the run wore me out. I changed into my regular shorts and I was ready to go. We hugged good-bye and I was off. I am grateful to Michelle for being such a great hostess.
Drive to Missoula was uneventful except for one miscalculation on my part. I did not realize I15 did not go through Butte. Now I had to drive further to get lunch and gas. I was worried for a little while as the gas gauge was going below an eighth of the tank. I stopped at Deerlodge for a standby McDonald’s and filled at Conoco.
The pump at Conoco would not automatically fill, so I had to manually hold and squeeze the handle the whole time. What a pain in the arrss!
The real drive began from Missoula, because the drive became speed up, slow down, drive through town, speed up, slow down, construction, speed up, and etc. It took another two and a half hour to drive less than a hundred miles. Montana is gorgeous. Weather was so great. I guess I did not mind the drive too much.
I finally arrived at Columbia Falls at half past three. It did not look like anyone was home, so I went to merchant area of town and got a haircut. I felt it was about time. A local barber was helpful and chatty. I called Ian A to let him know that I was staying with another. I could hear him but he could not hear me. How weird! Ian kept saying hello. I felt bad. I would call him again.
I went back to the house that I would stay at and rang the doorbell. No answer. I decided to wait at the park next to the house. I started to note things in my journal when a woman came out of the house and asked if I was Jae. I said I was and she invited me into the house. Her name is Jennifer and she is Colby’s sister in-law. It was good to meet her. We briefly chatted about this and that. I felt comfortable being here.
Pretty soon, Colby and Eric (brother in-law) came back from fishing. It is good to see them both. Eric looked older. I guess we are all older. I met the little one, George, and found out they are also expecting another like Colby and Amy. We started to drink some beer. Rokanee? I never heard of it. It was pretty good nonetheless. Do we have to consider Canadian beer, imports?
We had a great dinner, which consisted of boiled (or steamed) ears of corn, salad, and meatloaf. Mmmmmmm, meatloaf!
Weather: Cloudy
Expense
$5 on lunch
$30 on gas
$35 for today
$243 for the trip
Mileage: 672 for today, 1,390 for the trip
Beer: 2 for today, 4 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum42.html
I woke up to Michelle tapping my shoulder at five. Normally I would be up but I guess the run wore me out. I changed into my regular shorts and I was ready to go. We hugged good-bye and I was off. I am grateful to Michelle for being such a great hostess.
Drive to Missoula was uneventful except for one miscalculation on my part. I did not realize I15 did not go through Butte. Now I had to drive further to get lunch and gas. I was worried for a little while as the gas gauge was going below an eighth of the tank. I stopped at Deerlodge for a standby McDonald’s and filled at Conoco.
The pump at Conoco would not automatically fill, so I had to manually hold and squeeze the handle the whole time. What a pain in the arrss!
The real drive began from Missoula, because the drive became speed up, slow down, drive through town, speed up, slow down, construction, speed up, and etc. It took another two and a half hour to drive less than a hundred miles. Montana is gorgeous. Weather was so great. I guess I did not mind the drive too much.
I finally arrived at Columbia Falls at half past three. It did not look like anyone was home, so I went to merchant area of town and got a haircut. I felt it was about time. A local barber was helpful and chatty. I called Ian A to let him know that I was staying with another. I could hear him but he could not hear me. How weird! Ian kept saying hello. I felt bad. I would call him again.
I went back to the house that I would stay at and rang the doorbell. No answer. I decided to wait at the park next to the house. I started to note things in my journal when a woman came out of the house and asked if I was Jae. I said I was and she invited me into the house. Her name is Jennifer and she is Colby’s sister in-law. It was good to meet her. We briefly chatted about this and that. I felt comfortable being here.
Pretty soon, Colby and Eric (brother in-law) came back from fishing. It is good to see them both. Eric looked older. I guess we are all older. I met the little one, George, and found out they are also expecting another like Colby and Amy. We started to drink some beer. Rokanee? I never heard of it. It was pretty good nonetheless. Do we have to consider Canadian beer, imports?
We had a great dinner, which consisted of boiled (or steamed) ears of corn, salad, and meatloaf. Mmmmmmm, meatloaf!
Day 4 - A full day in Salt Lake
Date 6/23
Weather: Cloudy
Expense
$14 on Art Fair
$208 Total
Mileage: 0 for today, 718 for the trip
Beer: 0 for today, 2 for the trip
Picture: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum41.html
I wake up early today. I don’t know why but I figured I would get busy right away. I started to look at some maps and read about Mountain Rainier and Crater Lake some more. I started to type up my journals about last three days. I was hoping to start a new blog and share with everyone, but I don’t know when I will get a chance to upload. Oh, well.
Michelle went off to work at 6:00 am, but will be home by about eleven in the morning. Keith goes to work at 7:30 or so. Michelle and I will rendezvous with Keith for lunch. It will be at Wings and Things. Now there is a name for a restaurant.
After I finished typing, I realized that I still had a few more hours before Michelle gets back home. I started to read more from A Farewell to Arms. It is starting to get good. I finished the Book One, which is when American ambulance driver, Henry, gets hurt and will be shipped to Milan.
Even the women in books confuse me. Why does Ms. Barkley play all these games? Slap the guy for trying to kiss her and let him kiss her after apologizing. Ask the guy if he loves her and tell him that he does not love her. She is just a head case.
When Michelle arrived, we went off to pick up her hubby for lunch. The combination of wings, fries, and drinks were good. These came with a Utah’s own “Fry Sauce.” Apparently, it is a mixture of mayo and catsup that everyone uses for fries? Thank God, Michelle forgot to get one bottle for me to take home.
We went to Salt Lake City Arts Festival. It is collection of art vendors selling from their booths. It’s nothing too special. Michelle was keen on making our own paper bag hats. We paid our fees and started on our project. We elbowed against many children to find stickers and other decorative things for our hats. We listen to a local band playing at a staging area. There were circus folks next to the staging area. It was quite a sight. A tall bike rider, jugglers, a person on long walking sticks, and others were entertaining people. It was a blast.
We then went to Costco to get things for dinners. We talked about this and that. It was good to catch up. After talking with her, I realized how well adjusted and stable Michelle is. I think I would have a real hard time if I just moved to a new city and did not know anyone. I am impressed. It’s a good thing. Thanks Martha.
We decided to go for a run and I really wanted also. Weather did not cooperate as a couple of tornadoes touched down east of us. It was windy and rainy for a short while. We decided against running. I changed to running clothes and back to non-running clothes. Thanks Mother Nature.
After about an hour, Michelle said let’s go for a run. I looked out the window and voila, the weather was clear. How funny! I changed back to running clothes and off we went a trail that was nearby. Keith went to lift weights. The local trail was awesome. It was something out of Runners World. It was like A Little House on the Prairie or a rolling knoll. I had a hard time going up the long hill, but Michelle was doing pretty well. At the top, we saw the downtown and surrounding towns. Coming back down was much easier. It was a great run.
During our run, we conversed about the trail being developed for more housing, politics, war, and other things. I then also realized she is quite worldly as she explained her perspective. Maybe she should think about politics.
We came back home and she started to make dinner. I took a shower and watched the game seven of the NBA finals. It was entertaining for the most part as the game was tightly contested until the fourth quarter. We sat down to salad, lasagna, and rolls. I was hungry and plate was soon empty. It was good.
I called Colby in Montana to chat about the next day, since I am driving to Montana. I am driving to the house of his brother in law. I was looking forward to seeing Colby. I can smell Michelle is baking cookies.
Weather: Cloudy
Expense
$14 on Art Fair
$208 Total
Mileage: 0 for today, 718 for the trip
Beer: 0 for today, 2 for the trip
Picture: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum41.html
I wake up early today. I don’t know why but I figured I would get busy right away. I started to look at some maps and read about Mountain Rainier and Crater Lake some more. I started to type up my journals about last three days. I was hoping to start a new blog and share with everyone, but I don’t know when I will get a chance to upload. Oh, well.
Michelle went off to work at 6:00 am, but will be home by about eleven in the morning. Keith goes to work at 7:30 or so. Michelle and I will rendezvous with Keith for lunch. It will be at Wings and Things. Now there is a name for a restaurant.
After I finished typing, I realized that I still had a few more hours before Michelle gets back home. I started to read more from A Farewell to Arms. It is starting to get good. I finished the Book One, which is when American ambulance driver, Henry, gets hurt and will be shipped to Milan.
Even the women in books confuse me. Why does Ms. Barkley play all these games? Slap the guy for trying to kiss her and let him kiss her after apologizing. Ask the guy if he loves her and tell him that he does not love her. She is just a head case.
When Michelle arrived, we went off to pick up her hubby for lunch. The combination of wings, fries, and drinks were good. These came with a Utah’s own “Fry Sauce.” Apparently, it is a mixture of mayo and catsup that everyone uses for fries? Thank God, Michelle forgot to get one bottle for me to take home.
We went to Salt Lake City Arts Festival. It is collection of art vendors selling from their booths. It’s nothing too special. Michelle was keen on making our own paper bag hats. We paid our fees and started on our project. We elbowed against many children to find stickers and other decorative things for our hats. We listen to a local band playing at a staging area. There were circus folks next to the staging area. It was quite a sight. A tall bike rider, jugglers, a person on long walking sticks, and others were entertaining people. It was a blast.
We then went to Costco to get things for dinners. We talked about this and that. It was good to catch up. After talking with her, I realized how well adjusted and stable Michelle is. I think I would have a real hard time if I just moved to a new city and did not know anyone. I am impressed. It’s a good thing. Thanks Martha.
We decided to go for a run and I really wanted also. Weather did not cooperate as a couple of tornadoes touched down east of us. It was windy and rainy for a short while. We decided against running. I changed to running clothes and back to non-running clothes. Thanks Mother Nature.
After about an hour, Michelle said let’s go for a run. I looked out the window and voila, the weather was clear. How funny! I changed back to running clothes and off we went a trail that was nearby. Keith went to lift weights. The local trail was awesome. It was something out of Runners World. It was like A Little House on the Prairie or a rolling knoll. I had a hard time going up the long hill, but Michelle was doing pretty well. At the top, we saw the downtown and surrounding towns. Coming back down was much easier. It was a great run.
During our run, we conversed about the trail being developed for more housing, politics, war, and other things. I then also realized she is quite worldly as she explained her perspective. Maybe she should think about politics.
We came back home and she started to make dinner. I took a shower and watched the game seven of the NBA finals. It was entertaining for the most part as the game was tightly contested until the fourth quarter. We sat down to salad, lasagna, and rolls. I was hungry and plate was soon empty. It was good.
I called Colby in Montana to chat about the next day, since I am driving to Montana. I am driving to the house of his brother in law. I was looking forward to seeing Colby. I can smell Michelle is baking cookies.
Day 3 - Off to Salt Lake
Date 6/22
Weather: Cloudy and not so hot
Expense
$30 on gas
$3 on lunch
$9 on frozen custards
$42 for today
$194 for the trip
Mileage: 331 for today, 718 for the trip
Beer: 1 for today, 2 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum40.html
I wake up to even tighter quads. Oh, well. Off to run, I went. I thought dirt road on Walkman Trail would be easier, but it was climbing up too much. I ran about 12 minutes before turning back. I ran about six minutes more on Pa’rus for total of thirty minutes. I was not dying so it was a good thing. Thanks Martha Stewart.
I packed up quickly. I mean quickly since I did not even pitch my tent. I figure sleeping in my car is easier. I started to drive toward Salt Lake. My first stop was at Kolob Scenic drive, which is a part of Zion, but off I-15 and away from Zion Canyon. It was a great little drive up a hill to a beautiful scene. It was worth the drive.
I stopped to fill up with gas and have lunch at Provo. It turns out BYU is there. Interesting. This is where my Mormon high school friend came to get married. I mean to get educated. Ha, ha.
I arrived at Michelle’s about 1:30 local time. It was quite an easy 320-mile drive. Even with the road constructions on the way. I felt like I slowed so many drivers as I drove the speed limit. Who wants to come back to fight a speed ticket out of state? That is what I told myself.
Michelle lives in this new home on a hill. It is quite nice. Moving on up! Good for her. I started to recharge my cameras, typing up travel logs, and read Michelle’s newspaper. Pistons won game six. Yes! Maybe I can catch the game seven tomorrow.
Mental note: Do not download video. Takes too long.
Michelle came home about half past five. It was nice to see her. I noticed her hair was shorter, but I was not sure. I found out later she donated her hair. Good for her. I got a quickie tour of the house. It is quite big, tall ceilings, a big garage, and a large basement. Impressive. I should take some pictures for the gang back in phoenix.
Keith, her husband, came back soon after. We headed out to Salt Lake. It was an adventure finding a local microbrew. I imagine they want me to go since I like to make my own beer. They had a hard time finding one. I reasoned it because they do not drink. We had a great dinner and conversations at Desert Edge. I think that was the name of the restaurant/microbrew. I had a bland chicken sandwich with a steam beer. The steam beer was not as hoppy as I expected but good. I used salt to make the sandwich better.
Before returning to Michelle’s home, we stopped at a local frozen custard shop, Nielsens. It was good but I did not see what the big deal was. I guess I am not a frozen treat expert.
Weather: Cloudy and not so hot
Expense
$30 on gas
$3 on lunch
$9 on frozen custards
$42 for today
$194 for the trip
Mileage: 331 for today, 718 for the trip
Beer: 1 for today, 2 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum40.html
I wake up to even tighter quads. Oh, well. Off to run, I went. I thought dirt road on Walkman Trail would be easier, but it was climbing up too much. I ran about 12 minutes before turning back. I ran about six minutes more on Pa’rus for total of thirty minutes. I was not dying so it was a good thing. Thanks Martha Stewart.
I packed up quickly. I mean quickly since I did not even pitch my tent. I figure sleeping in my car is easier. I started to drive toward Salt Lake. My first stop was at Kolob Scenic drive, which is a part of Zion, but off I-15 and away from Zion Canyon. It was a great little drive up a hill to a beautiful scene. It was worth the drive.
I stopped to fill up with gas and have lunch at Provo. It turns out BYU is there. Interesting. This is where my Mormon high school friend came to get married. I mean to get educated. Ha, ha.
I arrived at Michelle’s about 1:30 local time. It was quite an easy 320-mile drive. Even with the road constructions on the way. I felt like I slowed so many drivers as I drove the speed limit. Who wants to come back to fight a speed ticket out of state? That is what I told myself.
Michelle lives in this new home on a hill. It is quite nice. Moving on up! Good for her. I started to recharge my cameras, typing up travel logs, and read Michelle’s newspaper. Pistons won game six. Yes! Maybe I can catch the game seven tomorrow.
Mental note: Do not download video. Takes too long.
Michelle came home about half past five. It was nice to see her. I noticed her hair was shorter, but I was not sure. I found out later she donated her hair. Good for her. I got a quickie tour of the house. It is quite big, tall ceilings, a big garage, and a large basement. Impressive. I should take some pictures for the gang back in phoenix.
Keith, her husband, came back soon after. We headed out to Salt Lake. It was an adventure finding a local microbrew. I imagine they want me to go since I like to make my own beer. They had a hard time finding one. I reasoned it because they do not drink. We had a great dinner and conversations at Desert Edge. I think that was the name of the restaurant/microbrew. I had a bland chicken sandwich with a steam beer. The steam beer was not as hoppy as I expected but good. I used salt to make the sandwich better.
Before returning to Michelle’s home, we stopped at a local frozen custard shop, Nielsens. It was good but I did not see what the big deal was. I guess I am not a frozen treat expert.
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Day 2 - A full day in Zion
Date 6/21
Weather: Cloudy and hot
Expense:
$4 on shower
$31 on dinner
$35 for today
$152 for the trip
Mileage: 0 for today, 387 for the trip
Beer: 1 for today, 1 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum39.html
I was ambitious with my plan today, which was not intentional. Since it was so hot yesterday, I decided to get started early. I was up and waiting for the shuttle by 6:00 Mountain Time. It turned out the next shuttle was on schedule for 6:35. So I impatiently started to take Pa’rus Trail to Zion Lodge. I caught the same shuttle at Canyon Junction, which is still far way from the Lodge.
The shuttle driver talked about the wildlife early in the morning, which includes wild turkeys, deer, and mountain lions. In fact, everyone was treated to a wild turkeys sighting. I did not think they were wild, but rather docile. I guess turkeys cannot look menacing.
There were about fifteen people in the shuttle, who were headed to Angles Landing Trail. I was headed there, as this is the TRAIL. The shuttle driver started to talk about Angels Landing. He said that it is so named because only Angels can land there. He further told us that there is chains that will aid ascend and descend. When the driver went on to explain that there are people who give up just at the sight of the peak, I found out later why. It is supposed to take about four hours to summit and back. I was ready with a half gallon of water, a digital camera, a video camera, and a tripod.
Most people got off at Grotto, where the trail begins. I went to the restroom just so I felt lighter before embarking on this mission. I was following a group of five people who were in great spirits. It was not so bad of a climb for sometime as I did not feel any ill effects. I guess running in the mornings have been helpful.
About a third way up the trail, the trail became the serious looking switchbacks. It was well made and maintained. I still felt good. You know, nice and easy. I came up to this top of a place where chains were attached. One man slept overnight using a hammock. What an idea! I need to start thinking about these things.
It turns out this is not the top. He pointed at this serious looking peak where people look like ants were climbing. Alas, I understood why the driver’s talk and the write-up about this trail is not for the height fearing types. Oh, well. I was there already. I might as well do what the tourists do. I left everything on the trail and took just a bottle of water with me to the top. I later regretted not taking the camera to take a picture from the top.
It turned out, the climb was not bad at all with chains, but it was still scary looking at the start. I felt a little like Rocky and would have appreciated “Eyes of the Tiger.” I did not stay long at the top, as I was a little worried about my things, which I left on the trail.
Descending the trail was relatively quicker and easier on my spirit. I was happy to have done this trail and all I could think about was an ice cream cone at the snack shop. I decided against it and headed to Hidden Canyon Trail. Once again, I came to regret this decision. C’est la vie.
Hidden Canyon is supposed to be shorter and easier, but it felt much harder. It might have been because I did this one right after Angels Landing, or I am not used to this much climbing up and down, or a combination. Maybe this was harder. I was wondering why this is called Hidden Canyon, but I never did find out why. There was a sign at the end of the maintained trail. Beyond it is not maintained but is an arch. It became my hold grail for this trail. I went and followed the riverbanks until I ran into a family. I might have passed it if not for them, as the arch was relatively small in my opinion. By this time, I learned to use self-timer of my camera. I took my first picture of me in Zion.
As I was shuttling back to my campground, I met the jovial five-some again at the Lodge. They were telling me about ice cream. I was very envious, but I reasoned that I am spending a handsome amount of money for dinner at the lodge tonight. It turns out one of them is from Tucson. It is always good to run into Tucsonan every so often. I listened as they joked about this and that. I was starting to feel tight quads. Crap, I am going to feel this tomorrow I thought.
Once I got back to the campground, I ate a peach, four Oreos, and ham rolled up in a tortilla again. I took a quick thirty-minute shut-eye. I felt much refreshed, but tighter quads.
I took a shuttle into the town to take a shower. I wanted to feel, look, and smell nice for my dinner. After all, I was going to pay through the nose. I took a four-dollar shower at a local coffee shop. What a concept! Java and shower. I felt so much better and I was ready for my dinner. It was still a little hot outside. I hoped that I would not perspire too much before dinner.
I went to the Lodge with a book to read, a book of maps, and a national parks touring book. I started to read A Farewell to Arms by E. Hemmingway. This comes highly recommended by a friend. I got to the point where the American is getting to know the British Nurse. I hope this becomes good. It is good to be in AC’ed environment. There was awfully slow and free internet access, which I could not get it to work. I would have loved to have checked my e-mail, but I reasoned this is why I am out here, to get away from it.
At exactly 5 pm, I was seated and no sooner. The host would not have it any other way. My server was Cheryl from Wyoming, which was written on the nametag. I would not have found this out on my own, as I am not a great conversation starter. I thought to myself, she is cute. I guess I cannot help being a dirty old man sometimes.
I had a glass of Kolsch and prime rib. I guess I am getting to be a beer snob or getting good at judging beer. I thought their Summer Solstice Kolsch was not as malty. It was a quaffable beer. Prime rib on the other hand was mediocre at best. I had better. I felt okay, as they did not charge too much for this. I guess you also paid for the ambiance. The vegetable medley was excellent. I quite enjoyed it. Mashed potato was awful. Inedible.
I called Michelle in Salt Lake, who I am visiting next. I looked forward to seeing her.
Weather: Cloudy and hot
Expense:
$4 on shower
$31 on dinner
$35 for today
$152 for the trip
Mileage: 0 for today, 387 for the trip
Beer: 1 for today, 1 for the trip
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum39.html
I was ambitious with my plan today, which was not intentional. Since it was so hot yesterday, I decided to get started early. I was up and waiting for the shuttle by 6:00 Mountain Time. It turned out the next shuttle was on schedule for 6:35. So I impatiently started to take Pa’rus Trail to Zion Lodge. I caught the same shuttle at Canyon Junction, which is still far way from the Lodge.
The shuttle driver talked about the wildlife early in the morning, which includes wild turkeys, deer, and mountain lions. In fact, everyone was treated to a wild turkeys sighting. I did not think they were wild, but rather docile. I guess turkeys cannot look menacing.
There were about fifteen people in the shuttle, who were headed to Angles Landing Trail. I was headed there, as this is the TRAIL. The shuttle driver started to talk about Angels Landing. He said that it is so named because only Angels can land there. He further told us that there is chains that will aid ascend and descend. When the driver went on to explain that there are people who give up just at the sight of the peak, I found out later why. It is supposed to take about four hours to summit and back. I was ready with a half gallon of water, a digital camera, a video camera, and a tripod.
Most people got off at Grotto, where the trail begins. I went to the restroom just so I felt lighter before embarking on this mission. I was following a group of five people who were in great spirits. It was not so bad of a climb for sometime as I did not feel any ill effects. I guess running in the mornings have been helpful.
About a third way up the trail, the trail became the serious looking switchbacks. It was well made and maintained. I still felt good. You know, nice and easy. I came up to this top of a place where chains were attached. One man slept overnight using a hammock. What an idea! I need to start thinking about these things.
It turns out this is not the top. He pointed at this serious looking peak where people look like ants were climbing. Alas, I understood why the driver’s talk and the write-up about this trail is not for the height fearing types. Oh, well. I was there already. I might as well do what the tourists do. I left everything on the trail and took just a bottle of water with me to the top. I later regretted not taking the camera to take a picture from the top.
It turned out, the climb was not bad at all with chains, but it was still scary looking at the start. I felt a little like Rocky and would have appreciated “Eyes of the Tiger.” I did not stay long at the top, as I was a little worried about my things, which I left on the trail.
Descending the trail was relatively quicker and easier on my spirit. I was happy to have done this trail and all I could think about was an ice cream cone at the snack shop. I decided against it and headed to Hidden Canyon Trail. Once again, I came to regret this decision. C’est la vie.
Hidden Canyon is supposed to be shorter and easier, but it felt much harder. It might have been because I did this one right after Angels Landing, or I am not used to this much climbing up and down, or a combination. Maybe this was harder. I was wondering why this is called Hidden Canyon, but I never did find out why. There was a sign at the end of the maintained trail. Beyond it is not maintained but is an arch. It became my hold grail for this trail. I went and followed the riverbanks until I ran into a family. I might have passed it if not for them, as the arch was relatively small in my opinion. By this time, I learned to use self-timer of my camera. I took my first picture of me in Zion.
As I was shuttling back to my campground, I met the jovial five-some again at the Lodge. They were telling me about ice cream. I was very envious, but I reasoned that I am spending a handsome amount of money for dinner at the lodge tonight. It turns out one of them is from Tucson. It is always good to run into Tucsonan every so often. I listened as they joked about this and that. I was starting to feel tight quads. Crap, I am going to feel this tomorrow I thought.
Once I got back to the campground, I ate a peach, four Oreos, and ham rolled up in a tortilla again. I took a quick thirty-minute shut-eye. I felt much refreshed, but tighter quads.
I took a shuttle into the town to take a shower. I wanted to feel, look, and smell nice for my dinner. After all, I was going to pay through the nose. I took a four-dollar shower at a local coffee shop. What a concept! Java and shower. I felt so much better and I was ready for my dinner. It was still a little hot outside. I hoped that I would not perspire too much before dinner.
I went to the Lodge with a book to read, a book of maps, and a national parks touring book. I started to read A Farewell to Arms by E. Hemmingway. This comes highly recommended by a friend. I got to the point where the American is getting to know the British Nurse. I hope this becomes good. It is good to be in AC’ed environment. There was awfully slow and free internet access, which I could not get it to work. I would have loved to have checked my e-mail, but I reasoned this is why I am out here, to get away from it.
At exactly 5 pm, I was seated and no sooner. The host would not have it any other way. My server was Cheryl from Wyoming, which was written on the nametag. I would not have found this out on my own, as I am not a great conversation starter. I thought to myself, she is cute. I guess I cannot help being a dirty old man sometimes.
I had a glass of Kolsch and prime rib. I guess I am getting to be a beer snob or getting good at judging beer. I thought their Summer Solstice Kolsch was not as malty. It was a quaffable beer. Prime rib on the other hand was mediocre at best. I had better. I felt okay, as they did not charge too much for this. I guess you also paid for the ambiance. The vegetable medley was excellent. I quite enjoyed it. Mashed potato was awful. Inedible.
I called Michelle in Salt Lake, who I am visiting next. I looked forward to seeing her.
Day 1 - Off to Zion National Park
Date 6/20
Weather: Clear and Hot
Expense
$10 on suveniors
$25 on gas
$50 on NP card
$32 on camping fee
$117 for Total
Mileage: 387 miles
Beer: 0
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum38.html
I got up extra early today. I am not sure if it is the excitement of traveling, but I woke up at 3:30 A.M. unintentionally. Oh, well. I went through my list one more time and cross everything off, including turning up the AC to 85°F. I wrote an e-mail to most of people that knows I was taking an extended road trip. I said a good-bye to my little girl, Cenya. I hope my parents will take good care of my dog.
It was a cool morning, but I guess 4:16 a.m. would be a cool time of the day. I started my Honda and off I went. Radio was playing Don McClain’s “American Pie.” I was off to a good start.
First place I stopped was at Flagstaff. I took care of number one and filled the gas tank. The gas station attendant was a cheery of sort. He greeted me so politely before I even purchased any gas. In fact, I first went to the restroom. Flagstaff’s morning temperature is quite chilly. I suppose it is a relative thing, but I felt kind of nippy on the chest area.
I was off to Page, Arizona. It took another couple of hours. It was quite a boring drive. I stopped at Glen Canyon Dam Visitor Center, which was nearby, for a quickie tour. I noticed the guide talk giver woman had a nose stud. I don’t know why I noticed that so much. I did not even think she was cute. I was thinking our employers are getting less of a stick in the mud. I bought an over-priced patch. I am not sure why I bought it since I did not really hike or take an extended tour of anything. What a waste!
The last stop for today was the destination, Zion National Park. It was quite a short drive from Page. I guess this is also relative, but it took just over two hours I think. I entered the Zion through the East entrance. Supposedly, the East entrance is a scenic drive and it is named Zion-Mt. Carmel Hwy. It was pretty awesome to see the tunnels and Checkerboard Mesa. I drove down into the canyon unlike Grand Canyon.
First thing was first. I set up my base in South Campground. I paid for two nights as soon as I found my campground 102. I was ready to explore the Zion, but I was famished. I ate pita with ham and drank some water. It tasted mighty fine.
I walked over to the visitor center where all the shuttles were. During the busy season no private vehicles are allowed in the Zion Canyon. I started with viewing a 22-minute video about Zion at the Human Museum. It was your everyday informative thing and nothing spectacular.
I went to Court of Patriarchs after the video. It is three gigantic (I thought about ginormous) rocks. They are Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham. Apparently, a Methodist minister named much of the Zion. The Patriarchs were impressive, but I’ve seen better.
After the Patriarchs, I stopped at the Zion Lodge. This is where the pampered visitors come to stay. It has a snack shop, a gift shop, and a full service restaurant. I made a reservation for dinner for next day. Emerald Pools Trail is at this shuttle stop. This is a nice trail where three green looking pools are at three different levels. I made it to the top only losing the trail once. The park service forbade swimming at the top pool. Middle pool contained harmful bacteria, so I did not drink the water. I did wet my feet. I don’t think that was a good idea in retrospect, but I was hot at the time.
I stopped at Weeping Rock next. It was a real short hike to where water slips out between two rock formations. One is porous and the other is much harder, Shale. Water comes out between the two layers. It was nice to be under the mist of water, as the day seemed hot.
The last stop for the day was Riverside Walk. It was longer hike then I thought. It was nice to walk in shade along the Virgin River. Yes, the river is called Virgin. I washed my face, hands, and feet at the end of the trail where there are river access areas.
I went to the Visitor Center, where I purchased postcard postage and two postcards. I was hungry so I came back to the campground. I ate a peach, three Oreos, and ham rolled up in a wheat tortilla. I wrote the postcards to my folks and my sister. I hoped they like them.
With daylight savings, Utah does not experience sunset until 9 pm or later. I was bored so I took a free shuttle in to the town of Springdale. It is a little dink of a town serving Zion, which is made of shops along 89.
I looked forward to exploring more tomorrow. I was pooped out. I brushed my teeth. Sayonara, I was out.
Weather: Clear and Hot
Expense
$10 on suveniors
$25 on gas
$50 on NP card
$32 on camping fee
$117 for Total
Mileage: 387 miles
Beer: 0
Pictures: homepage.mac.com/cenya/PhotoAlbum38.html
I got up extra early today. I am not sure if it is the excitement of traveling, but I woke up at 3:30 A.M. unintentionally. Oh, well. I went through my list one more time and cross everything off, including turning up the AC to 85°F. I wrote an e-mail to most of people that knows I was taking an extended road trip. I said a good-bye to my little girl, Cenya. I hope my parents will take good care of my dog.
It was a cool morning, but I guess 4:16 a.m. would be a cool time of the day. I started my Honda and off I went. Radio was playing Don McClain’s “American Pie.” I was off to a good start.
First place I stopped was at Flagstaff. I took care of number one and filled the gas tank. The gas station attendant was a cheery of sort. He greeted me so politely before I even purchased any gas. In fact, I first went to the restroom. Flagstaff’s morning temperature is quite chilly. I suppose it is a relative thing, but I felt kind of nippy on the chest area.
I was off to Page, Arizona. It took another couple of hours. It was quite a boring drive. I stopped at Glen Canyon Dam Visitor Center, which was nearby, for a quickie tour. I noticed the guide talk giver woman had a nose stud. I don’t know why I noticed that so much. I did not even think she was cute. I was thinking our employers are getting less of a stick in the mud. I bought an over-priced patch. I am not sure why I bought it since I did not really hike or take an extended tour of anything. What a waste!
The last stop for today was the destination, Zion National Park. It was quite a short drive from Page. I guess this is also relative, but it took just over two hours I think. I entered the Zion through the East entrance. Supposedly, the East entrance is a scenic drive and it is named Zion-Mt. Carmel Hwy. It was pretty awesome to see the tunnels and Checkerboard Mesa. I drove down into the canyon unlike Grand Canyon.
First thing was first. I set up my base in South Campground. I paid for two nights as soon as I found my campground 102. I was ready to explore the Zion, but I was famished. I ate pita with ham and drank some water. It tasted mighty fine.
I walked over to the visitor center where all the shuttles were. During the busy season no private vehicles are allowed in the Zion Canyon. I started with viewing a 22-minute video about Zion at the Human Museum. It was your everyday informative thing and nothing spectacular.
I went to Court of Patriarchs after the video. It is three gigantic (I thought about ginormous) rocks. They are Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham. Apparently, a Methodist minister named much of the Zion. The Patriarchs were impressive, but I’ve seen better.
After the Patriarchs, I stopped at the Zion Lodge. This is where the pampered visitors come to stay. It has a snack shop, a gift shop, and a full service restaurant. I made a reservation for dinner for next day. Emerald Pools Trail is at this shuttle stop. This is a nice trail where three green looking pools are at three different levels. I made it to the top only losing the trail once. The park service forbade swimming at the top pool. Middle pool contained harmful bacteria, so I did not drink the water. I did wet my feet. I don’t think that was a good idea in retrospect, but I was hot at the time.
I stopped at Weeping Rock next. It was a real short hike to where water slips out between two rock formations. One is porous and the other is much harder, Shale. Water comes out between the two layers. It was nice to be under the mist of water, as the day seemed hot.
The last stop for the day was Riverside Walk. It was longer hike then I thought. It was nice to walk in shade along the Virgin River. Yes, the river is called Virgin. I washed my face, hands, and feet at the end of the trail where there are river access areas.
I went to the Visitor Center, where I purchased postcard postage and two postcards. I was hungry so I came back to the campground. I ate a peach, three Oreos, and ham rolled up in a wheat tortilla. I wrote the postcards to my folks and my sister. I hoped they like them.
With daylight savings, Utah does not experience sunset until 9 pm or later. I was bored so I took a free shuttle in to the town of Springdale. It is a little dink of a town serving Zion, which is made of shops along 89.
I looked forward to exploring more tomorrow. I was pooped out. I brushed my teeth. Sayonara, I was out.
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