To many the Pig Roast is only a short drive away, but for some of us it is a bit more than that. We try to plan some side trips on the way there and also some different scenery on the return trip to home.
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When we passed through Memphis we went to the Bass Pro Shop Pyramid.
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Full sized fiberglas Cypress trees reach upward. :o
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The size is deceiving. 25 stories high and huge.
In Sikeston MO, we ate at Lambert's Cafe (http://www.throwedrolls.com/shopcontent.asp?type=Sikeston), the home of the "Throwed Rolls".
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The "roll throwing" guy.
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Huge yeast rolls with "pass around" fried okra.
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My plate included fried chicken wings, pan fried potatoes, okra, corn, Lima beans, slaw, carrots, mashed potatoes, and unlimited rolls. :o food3
Tomorrow we will go North on I57 to Indy and then I69.
You need a nap now. :D :D :D :D
Wow looks like fun! Love okra!
MM,
Okay. Admit it. You were estimating how many bf of fiberglass lumber you'd get out of those fake trees!
Enjoy the trip. Safe travels.
They looked real. I had to knock on one before I was completely satisfied.
That's why thy call you the Traveling Man have fun and be safe
You could probably plan a trip around restaurants that throw some of your food at you. I saw film of a pancake place that threw extra pancakes to you. The thrower was very good.
Looks just great! I look forward to a road trip with not many time constraints.
MM, we ate at Planners in Springfield years ago and yes it is a fun place. When we passed it today we started to call ahead to see if they threw them to cars as they drove through parking lot!
Nothing exciting yesterday or today. We have decided to visit some of Michigan's West Coast tomorrow.
We left home on Tuesday morning after a slight delay with a flat tire (needed a new valve stem) but still made it to Benezette, PA by mid afternoon. Benezette is in Elk County and home to the largest free roaming Elk herd east of the Mississippi, at least that's what they claim, and we saw over 40 Elk that evening while driving on the mountain. Today while driving on the Ohio turnpike we saw a car with "GOAT" for his license number but probably not OUR Goat. We are now in Petersburg, MI at a KOA campground and should make it to Hidden Hill in Harrison tomorrow. See you there.
PR Travels
Yesterday, we stopped in Wheaton, Mo. to visit with Yukon Cornelius and his family. Man, when he says he is at the jumpin' off place,....believe him!!! The OnStar, and my trusty Garmin both could not put me there!!! A few cell phone calls for road directions had us there . Looked the place over good, and spent time in the shop looking at all the project wood! He's got enough to keep the projects going from now on. Ashton has been learning from his schooling at Roy's and has built a really good spring pole lathe. He also has started his handtool collection, and has some good pieces already, saws, chisels, and a really cool jointer plane. He is going to be a great woodworker as he learns the finer points. A really great young man. Left the Gulch at 6.30, heading to Belleville Illinois. Got in the motel at 12.30 this morning. A really short night, and have not had time to download any pictures yet. Left there this morning at 6.00AM and drove and stopped and drove all the way to Chicago, on old route 66. We looked at old cars, museums, Springfield move_it move_it food1 and everything to see from there to here. We are in Sawyer Mi. resting up for tomorrows travels. Will make the lakeshore drive to where we can go across to Haughton Lake where our reservations are. Try to be in early and post some picts. This trip has been a real blast! We all fell in love with Pontiac, Illinois. Really cool town. 8) 8) Andy
Sorry Lynn on my post about Lambert's. My crazy phone has auto correct and I typed Lambert's but it posted different. When Andy got on here tonight he said WHAT'S this post about? Did not catch it before I posted. See you at PR.
The is a running narrative of a crazy old man with nothing better to do than type every thought that trickles through his mind while riding the train across the nation. Read at your own risk. Spelling was not corrected as I was using Wordpad...
5:07 pm July 26, 2015
The train has left the station. I am aboard. First I need to describe the actions that put me on a train heading East...
After two weeks of packing, unpacking, changing suitcases, and finally allowing my Wife to help, I have discovered that 62 pounds of stuff can really fit into a 30 pound bag (if you stuff it in tight enough). I am allowed two checked bags not to exceed 50 pounds and two carry on bags as well. Of course I am pushing the limits by packing at least two and sometimes three of everything I own most not to be used at all. Somehow I never did overcome the "be prepared" motto of the Boy Scouts so I have packed everything but the bathroom sink and I left that only because when I made it - it developed cracks that rendered it unusable.
First impressions of the train ride East...
The train is Quite, very Quite. A little bouncy but clean and not too tired looking. I have a window seat on the upper level facing South so I can enjoy the view of the Columbia River for the next 150 or so miles. The train is kept at a well air conditioned temperature so it is a little chilly for an old man like me. I wish I had prepared for this by not packing my sweat shirt in my checked baggage so will have to wrap up in my fuzzy blanket if it gets cold enough.
While waiting in line to board the train I was chatting with a couple of people next to me and after standing in line for 45 minutes they wanted me to exchange my car assignment so I could ride in the caboose. When I pointed out trains no longer had cabooses they assured me the train master would find one for me after talking to me for a while. I choose not to explore that option.
People are wandering up and down the isle. I see they can also move between the different cars as well. I don't have a seatmate as yet, perhaps when the train gets more crowded someone will take a chance and sit next to me. Not likely however as I take up more that my allotted seat in girth so it will take a really skinny person to fit next to me. Carry on luggage is stored overhead much like on an airplane but there is an abundance of legroom and wide windows to see out of.
The train travels on the North banks of the Columbia River allowing one to view some amazing views. I have driven many times the highway (I84) that runs on the Southern banks so this is a new way to appreciate Gods Glory. I am Blessed in so many ways. Not only do I have a wonderful Wife who allows me to go on this journey but I also have the time and with the help of LegRite (Professional Tools built for life and made in America), can mostly afford the trip. I love the idea of travel, but seldom can do much more than "armchair" voyages.
8:40 pm July 26, 2015
Twilight grows across the land. Still next to the Columbia River however the surrounding terrain has flattened out. In the distant Northeast (?) is a sunset that makes the sky aflame with color. I don't know where we are but the train continues rolling along. On the low hills nearby is the first wind farm I have seen. Blades 150 feet long rotating silently producing power for the nation. We are coming into a town as the buildings are becoming more numerous and I just spotted an auto wrecking yard (one of my passions, too many to list says my Wife). It would have been great to discover what treasures await however the train is moving too quickly for a detailed viewing.
I hear that we will join the Seattle train around midnight and that will add a dining car for those $30 steaks. I have several sandwiches and some other goodies packed with love by my Wife. I am not sure if she doesn't want me to starve or just is too CHEEP frugal and wants me to save my money for fun (Ya Right). The PA just anounced we are about to arrive in Pasco WA. so now I know where we are. Some stops along the way are smoking stops where their is a charge of desperate people trampling one another to jump off the train and foul the air. Thank you Lord that I don't have any need to further curope my body. All too quickly came the returning tide each exhaling a final stink of fumes and off we roll again.
It's still rather chilly but I am wrapped up in my blanket. I have taken a nap already and have just realized this is a two day trip. Not two days with one night but a full 47 hours. That means I will be trying to sleep sitting up for two nights as well. Now if I was in my recliner at home I might be comfortable but I can't put my feet up so making the best of it is all I can do. The seats in my Superliner car are not plush but okay (I hope to still be able to say the same in a couple of days). Not long ago, I wandered around from car to car and found the lounge car. It has floor to ceiling windows that curve over head making a skylight effect. The seats there face out and swivel so groups of people can interact easily. Then I found the snack car area but am glad I don't have to rely on it for nourishment.
Night has blackened the scenery so I guess it is time to watch a movie. My former Son-In-Law has fixed me up with an external hard drive to add to my tablet computer so I have additional entertainment to keep the hours from dragging on. Perhaps I will start with the Blues Brothers as that seems to be a fitting movie for someone heading for Chicago.
Well that didn't work. Microsoft Media Player doesn't like the way the movies are setup so I might not get to watch any until I can ask how to fix the problem. I do get to listen to music and am now experiencing a restful rain shower. It is dark outside and the interior lights are dim so all I can see are the occasional lights outside. It may be dry as an old bone but within my inner world is a wet and refreshing existence. It is interesting to note the communities we are traveling through. Who or where I don't have a clue. Mostly darkness with distant lights then an explosion of illumination when passing near something or another. The only sound to be heard is the train whistle blowing when we approach a crossing I guess. Sometimes late at night when sleep is fleeting I will hear train whistles while lying in my bed. I live in town more than a mile from any tracks yet the sound fills the air much as oil will drip onto the driveway and cover every speck of surface. Both leave a lasting presence.
All is calm now. Next stop is Spokane Wa. where we meet another train from Seattle and then it will take an be an hour or so of combining the cars into a single East bound train. Some people will leave us while we gain a bunch more. Thankfully they will be riding in their own cars so our cars should not be affected. It's so dark... I should sleep but my brain is not ready to relax yet. I have been on overdrive for a while worrying about packing, forgetting something important, and desperately trying to leave a few things behind. I know I have over-packed, my Wife stopped trying to get me to realize I don't really need three of everything. She is a wonderful helpmate. God knew I would need someone special to put up with me and He doesn't make it any easier for her. What She did to deserve me I will never know. We have been married for 35 years and I can say in all that time we have never said a cross word or failed to remember the other persons feelings in every thing we have done. Who leads or who follows has always depended on the situation. Neither one has always gotten their own way but we have both always chosen the path that works for us in the end. It remains a good life. I have children, grandchildren, friends, and a good Church to belong to where God's Word is spoken. I am a happy man who is well loved. Enough of this rambling. I need to find another way to pass the night.
1:23 am July 27, 2015
Still sitting in Spokane. Most activity has quieted down, departing passengers are long gone, my fellow travelers are trying to get some sleep. Unfortunately the Boarder Patrol may have other ideas. They are marching up and down the isle and give every indication they are seeking an escape Canadian moderate who is determined to bring national healthcare to America. No wait, that is already being done. Perhaps it is someone who thinks a crazy American is trying to invade Canada and is packing guns, ammo, and Grits. Gasp, the nerve.
The Amish have arrived. Everything I have learned about the Amish points to them being quite, reserved folk. Solid and proud of their heritage they avoid anything that brings attention to themselves, however I may need to revise my beliefs. A group of older adults in traditional garb and speaking a mixture of Germanic and English words have joined the train here in Spokane. Note it is very late or extremely early - either way most of this car is now awake and pretending to be asleep, hoping that the new passengers find seats elsewhere. I am of mixed feelings as I think I would enjoy the experience of meeting and talking with one of them. But that would mean giving up the empty seat next to me for the rest of the trip (I'm sure they are traveling to Chicago also so that they can return to their home areas). Would they feel comfortable speaking with an English person? A man perhaps, but not likely a woman. Anyway they found seats close together in the front of the car and my chance to explore their culture has passed for tonight. Perhaps I will attempt to meet one of them along the journey.
We are rolling again after about 90 minutes merging trains together. I could report that it is not easy to get comfortable but there will be lots of time for that later. For now I will enjoy the passage of lights, hearing the train whistle blowing and sharing with the world it's cry of adventure, and relish in the quietness of such a large behemoth moving across the land.
2:36 am July 27, 2015
A thought just occurred to me. I could have a gun in my bag, exploding shoes, more than 2 ounces of liquid, and GASP - maybe even a pocket knife!!!!
Where is the security? How can I be protected from all the crazy people hatching plots to import Twinkies and Goats into the Midwest? There goes any chance of getting any sleep tonight....
5:06 am July 27, 2015
At least that's my time, I don't have any idea what time it is where ever I am now. I have awaken to a change of scenery: TREES, mountains, and a ruggedness that encourages the pioneering spirit. I like it! There is a large stream/tiny river running nearby that looks like it might even have fish. Honey, (I always call my Wife honey when I want something unrealistic. Don't know why, it is just something that evolved over the years) Let's move here. i can build a log cabin with these trees and you can learn how to skin, tan, and make buckskin clothing. Sounds good, huh?
Thinking of tanning hides, last week while visiting the National Park Service site for Lewis and Clark's trips end near Astoria Oregon, my family saw a demonstration of scraping a deer hide to make rawhide. The Park Rangers then showed how to use brains to tan the hide and follow that with washing, softening, and working the hide until it was ready to be made into clothing. I have wanted buckskin clothing for years, so all I need to do now is get a gun, truck, ammo, and related camping gear. Go out and find a place to practice shooting, buying even more ammo, and finally :snowball: get a licence. After all this, I need to get the Wife's permission to go hunting. After she "explains" the folly of my ideas, I will worry Her with desire until she gives in and packs me a lunch before sending the "Great Hunter" out on an unsuspecting wilderness, safe in the understanding that I won't see anything to shoot at anyway. The Park Ranger explained that if I put an ad out requesting hides and a barrow at the end of my driveway for drop offs, I will have all I need within a week so why go to all the trouble and risk of trying to kill something myself.
i can just imagine what it would smell like to have a barrow full of rotting deer hides and how popular I would be with the neighbors. By then I will have understood the Rangers explaining that to scrape, tan, and process a hide into buckskin is real work. Something I am seldom up to following through with. So the only way I am ever going to get buckskin clothing is to purchase a herd of hides and have someone skilled into making clothing for "portly" gentlemen. Outta cost about the same as buying a new truck I think.
It just got really dark outside, trains in a tunnel. A really long tunnel, really dark. Geeze.
A really loooooooooooooooooooooooooogggggggggggeeeee tunnel. But I'm not afraid, not even one bit. Nope not me. At all. No Sir. Gosh, will this tunnel ever end. How they make such a dark hole in the earth? Maybe I have my eyes closed, OUCH, nope their open. It's a reallllllllyyyyyy long tunnel. "Honey, where are you"? I don't speak Chinese and the batteries are not going to last forever. Gulp. I feel the train still moving. I getting colder so at least i know I ain't going to He....
Wow!!! It's light again. And standing outside are deer just out side the tunnel. Who needs a truck or gun, maybe they will get run over and I can skin them right here. "conductor, please stop the train so I can harvest my new duds?" That must have been close to ten minutes or so inside that tunnel. I gotta go potty but don't want to miss any wild life outside. What's a fella to do? See you soon.
6:32 am July 27, 2015
Whitefish MT. Eating a Peanutbutter and Jelly sandwhich. Ever wonder why you never get hungery when at the beach? 'Cause of all the sandwich ??? is there! An old joke, much like my youngest daughter "always" forgetting her shoes whenever we went to the beach and us having to buy her a new pair. That went on for several years until we finaly wised up and brought extra just for her.
I have just met two Amish gentlemen named Leon and Jacob. They travel around by bus and train witnessing the wonders of the land. I enjoyed chatting with them, we could relate well enough to share with one another on many areas so hopefuly I can continue the conversation as the trip continues. They are returning to Lancaster PA. after having to cut the trip short due to possible health issues. Thank You Lord for allowing me the strength to travel and a chance to make new friends. Sitting here on a train that is still gives a completly different sperspective. We are sitting at the Whitefish depot with a pleasent green grass park next to the parking lot, trees all around and mountains close by. I can see why people like it here, but I fear the winters would get just a little too cold for me. Last year Portland enjoyed about seven hours of winter snow, just enough to say we had some so the rest of the country could understand we have four seasons too.
Well we just passed a flock of seven wild turkeys. Big juicy plump critters.
Wow, a wigwam wood burner! I haven't seen one of those in years. Several sawmills in the area producing some pretty good looking lumber. When I was a very young boy my family followed the sawmills through out Northern California and Southern Oregon. We traveled from mill to mill wherever there was work, always seeking a new job after being fired from the last one. Mom never did have good taste in men, generally marying one drinker after another. It did make for some memorable childhood stories though. I was walking log rafts before I started school and could see a never ending convayor belt feeding the wigwam burners 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The constant blow of the fires remains one of my most concrete memories. Last night I as sitting sideways trying to sleep I had the feeling of being a kid sleeping in the back seat of the car always on the move. It was a earley sensation. We had a Nash Metropolitian at one time and just for fun Mom's current husband drove UNDER a fully loaded log truck. That was in the day when a single log could fill the bunks and never more than three.
9:20 am July 27, 2015
Browning MT. More wigwam burners, and my first Willys Sedan Delivery truck. It looks to be an early one, perhaps 1950 or '51 with twin windows in the rear doors that open beside each other not the usual station wagon style. I own a 1953 willys Station wagon as my dream truck never to be fixed up and always to sit under the carport. When the grandkids were younger we took many an imagainary trip in that truck. Now no one has time for it any more. It was my hope to get it running as a daily driver but there is never enough extra money when the family needs exceed earnings. My youngest grandson has claimed it for his own (he's 14 now) but I fear it is as much a pipe dream as mine.
price of gas in shelby is $2.84
1:57 pm A never ending day
Farmers and ranchers have a thrifty nature, or maybe jsut lazy. I don't know which. When their old car/truck/combine/whatever dies they just drag in to the side of the field and go get another. No one seems to recycle anything unless they need a part or chunk, then they have a built in scrap yard filled with stuff useful or not. It's probley that way with their worn out spouses as well. I'm lucky that my Wife hates to have useless things cluttering the homestead. I guess I shouldn't be too supprised to learn my return ticket has been changed and She has packed up my Wonder Woman poster along with my tim foil hat. Maybe she will tell me where she is sending them, and me too. I hope it is nice...
I just realized I forgot my cheese curds. Saturday our last day at the beach we stoped by the Beef Jerkey and Cheese factories as it is a family tradition whenever we go to the coast. I remembered to bring the jerkey but left the curds at home. Sigh, most likely the grandkids will find them and "Poof" they will be gone. Well, at least the jerkey is realy good.
While I was exploring, I aquired a seatmate. She says she isn't likely to murder me while I sleep by imbeding a knife in my chest but time will tell. She is on the way to visit her husband who is currently a guest of the State Of Missouri for the next year or so. Says she makes this trip several times a year so she knows all about the train. She also says she prefers Orange jumpsuits over Striped, but wouldn't go into why. She appanently has had ocasions to wear both but isn't a murderer. I theorize her husband took the fall for "Stinky LaFeete" and is serving time while being inocent. Ya Sure.
Sill in Montana, where we are has pleanty of water as we have been skirting a river for a long time. Fields well irrigated producing rolls of hay everywhere.
I wonder if my Wife will mind me sleeping with a strange woman, she certinly is with me sitting next to her. I guess her husband can't say to much as he is sleeping with strange men every night. But he is inocent. My seatmate has excaped me for a while. She kept looking at me with an expression that says she shoulda taken the plane this trip.
It has been raining while the train is rolling along. Not a good frog strangler but enough to wash the dust off. Speaking of dust, there is plenty of it throughout the train cars. They may be clean but it is clear many millions of miles have rolled by since they were last refurbished.
We ahve stoped in Malta MT (?) and there is a Seagull flying around. Stoopid bird, the ocean is nowhere near here. Temp outside is 78 degrees and it is still like a referigation in this train car. The overhead PA just anounced while waiting for a freight train to pass by our engine died. Now that we are stopped again they are taking the opptunity to reboot the systems and run dianogistic tests "just to be sure" the train makes it further down the tracks.
2:30 pm And Montana is still out there.
I finally ??? figured out how to get a movie to play so I watched the "Blues Brothers". Rather a fitting way to approach Chicago. When the movie ended I was thinking it must be around 6 pm or so. Imagine my surprise to see it was still early afternoon. Time sure walks when traveling by train. With the need to give freight trains the right-of-way and now we are experiencing a safety speed restriction requiring us to go 25 mph there is a chance to see the wayside up close and personal like. This slow-down looks to be due to extensive maintenance being performed on the tracks. It must be difficult to keep everything in good repair while still having trains roll past. I have seen a great deal of equipment and supplies all through the journey. We just passed three tank cars laying on their side. Looks like they didn't make the trip undamaged.
Hummm, what's going on here? The computer says it is 6:01 and my watch says 3:00 while my telephone thinks it is 7:04. I kinda figure the telephone has realized we have crossed into a different time zone but the computer hasn't established an internet connection anywhere along the way. So I guess my three dollar watch is shiny but that's all it's good for.
I have gobbled all the sandwiches my Wife packed and a good thing too. The last couple of chicken salad ones were getting a little tingly while the peanut butter and jelly held up just fine. All I have left is snack stuff so maybe tomorrow I will give the dinning car and it's expensive food a try. At least I ain't gonna starve as long as the beef jerky holds out.
1:46 am July 28, 2015
Last location for the train was North Dakota. It's dark. The kind of dark that would dazzle the eyes with heavenly splendors if I could see the stars. Darkness that make you wonder if your eyes are open or shut. Cave darkness, well diggers darkness. A total black with only the occasional flickering where flame gives totality of expression. Oil. Black Hills Gold. Liquid money burning in the night. Flame that's the result of pumping oil from the ground and gas forcing it's way out.
There also is a Lightning storm flashing across the sky. It's so flat here that the horizon is a straight line betwixt earth and sky. I seldon have seen a lightning storm in total silence and in the Northwest where I live we seldom have lightning storms at all.
The train rolls to a stop in a city/town (I don't know which) and we sit here in the rain. There was an announcement earlier that the total seating capacity has been sold out so by the time we reach Chicago every possible seat will be filled. Good for Amtrak, but it means no extra room to spread out. I hear we are in Fargo, ND (you can make your own impression of the way people here talk from the movie). It must be a real inconvenience to have to board the train in the middle of the night in a rainstorm. And a great rainstorm it is out there. The windows are being pelted with life giving liquid. I hope it comes at a good time for the farmers. The darkness is reclaiming the world once again as we continue the trek across the states. So quickly the night captures the world, perhaps it's the rain or maybe it's just the way of the Midwest. Small beacons of life found on a land of nothingness. Perhaps in the daylight farms and evidence of population could be found here, I don't know.
3:40 am Granite Falls (?) ND
Seeing civilization reflects how one part of America looks so much like any other. Fast food, chain stores, car lots, banks, everything is the same. Names may change but the sameness is everywhere. I have just finished watching the movie "True Grit" with John Wayne and Glen Cambell. The vistas and countryside was carefully chosen to give the movie a unique look and feel. America today lacks that special "oneness" near any center of population. Perhaps in places where scenery and regional differences make a statement it could be seen a special gestalt, but as people seek comfort and familiar surroundings we lose the very nature of the land. I seek places where people matter. Where the land has not been tamed into submission. A sight of things not seen at home. Traveling at night may be the fastest way to cover the miles but at what cost. To gain distance yet lose caricature is not traveling for the person who seeks the experiences of wonders and a view of that special "thing" yet to be seen.
My seat mate went exploring yesterday and somehow found another seat without being forced to sit next to a foolish old man. While I miss the company, I enjoy the additional room to try and find a less uncomfortable sitting position. I don't blame her, not everyone is like my Wife. For 35 years She has endured being married to me. Not always easy times for her but she has never complained. I am blessed.
9:45 am my time 11:45 am local time, July 28, 2015
Coming up to Red Wing MN. Very green and lush vegetation everywhere. I am surprised on this sojourn across America not to see much in the way of slum or derelict areas. Last time I rode a train was in Brazil and the poverty of the region was very visible. America has so much to be thankful for that even the poorest have a high standard of living compared to the rest of the world.
Seeing stacks of railroad supplies is a very common sight. Stacks of new ties, rails, bits and pieces, as well as pre-assembled sections of rails ready to be installed at a moments notice can be found evey few miles. Folks that provide ties to the industry have a never ending demand. So many workers waiting for the train to pass so they can resume work must cost a fortune to have standing by . Used ties piled and waiting collection sometimes look pretty good, nice enough to be welcome in any landscaping project, but many are at the end of their usefulness, beat and splintered, useful for things that do not require any strength or beauty.
12:35:09 PM 2:35 Local Time July 28, 2015
Honey, I wanna move to Camp Douglas WI !!!
I just saw the most wonderful auto wrecking yard ever. It is sitting in a grove of trees completely overgrown, and it is huge. I wish I had known it was coming so I could have taken a picture. Geeze, there are plenty of trees everywhere. In Oregon you get all the trees you want as long as you want Douglas Fir. I haven't seen a conifir tree in a long while. We are rolling by the second correctional facility of the trip that I know of. Nice area, green everywhere, well trimed lawns, solid looking homes.
I have just had a most wonderful and enlightening conservation with one of the Amish folk riding in my train car. It started yesterday when I met Leon and Jacob, to older gentlemen (I choose the word carefully as it completely describes how they act, speak, and the friendliness they project), where I learned they are from Lancaster PA. We chatted about traveling and experiences meeting people, but it wasn't until I met Leon's wife today that I was not too timid to speak with her about her culture. She was so warm and willing to share, helping me to overcome my fears of intruding or being too nosy about their lifestyle. I learned that within the Amish communities, much like in every land and culture there are differences about the beliefs and ways each chooses to follow traditions. If for no other reason this conservation has made the entire trip worthwhile. (And not for the six point buck I just saw.) Leon and his group are more conservative in dress than the other Amish folk in then next car ahead. Wearing only black, grey, and white they look much like the traditional image I see portrayed in the media. The next group however dresses in warmer colors and looks more "modern". I wish I wasn't so shy or afraid to intrude as I would love to engage so many more people in conservation. I don't have any problem meeting and talking with most everyone I see, but the fear of offending is not easy to overcome.
Howdy
Great read, and appreciate your "capture" of the trip and people you talked with along the way.
Thanks
Wow Howdy, I just accompanied you on your journey. Thanks for a wonderful descriptive read. 8)
Great ready Howdy, we have often thought about a train ride out west, but pretty sure after my last trip to Chicago, I'm thinking I will find another way. Visiting with folks and learning a little from them is enjoyable for me too, but it does seem many folks like there space, so, I reckon they can just have it, enjoy the rest of your journey.
Thanks for the narrative of your trip, Howdy. We are looking forward to meeting you Saturday.
Norm
Howdy, you have a gift. Probably have a good novel in you if you applied your talent.
We made a day trip to Ludington today.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0215.JPG)
This is an "ornamental" tree that we have seen several times that has red berries. The leaves and bark indicate that it is a relative of the Honey Locust family??
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0217~0.JPG)
Pat got her toes wet in Lake Michigan,
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0218.JPG)
Red, White, & Blue Petunia hanging baskets on every pole.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0222.JPG)
And the curbs are lined with the same Petunias.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0221.JPG)
A close up.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20011/DSCN0219.JPG)
And this is a shot of half of my lunch. Roast beef with sauteed' onions and cheese, lettuce & tomato in thick slices of fresh baked yeast bread. That was topped off with a bowl of Buttered Pecan Ice Cream.
Oh, and then we stopped off at Jay's on our way back to Harrison. 8)
MM,
Mountain ash. Sorbus americana. In the Rose family. Fruit is a cluster of little apple like fruit (pomes).
Thanks Danny. We encountered them last year and were told what they were, but we both forgot. I may even forget again. ::)
Jeff has one growing in his back yard. We can visit it and admire its botanical features in a day or so ;D.
We were in Pontiac, Ill. having a great time on our way up to Michigan when all of a sudden, 2 deer jumped out of a corn field, smacked into the Equinox, and fell stunned on the road! We then called for the wildlife people to come. After explaining what happened, they loaded up the 2 deer on a low-boy, told us "thanks" and drove away! By the way, the Equinox didn't have a scratch on it either! Believe it, or not? We have pictures!!!!
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Most exciting thing Nancy and I did was while we were in Pontiac, we each bought Harley's!!! (GEEZER GLIDES) We plan on picking them up on our way back through! Here's the picture!!!!
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I once heard a saying that went something like this. "If you don't have pictures, it didn't happen"! That's so cool!
Our first stop was to Wheatland, Mo. We visited with a forum member and his wife and 2 children. Yukon Cornelius and his family are about down to earth as you can get. Got to see all his cedar projects that he makes. Beautiful! His son, Ashton, is following in his dad's footsteps. He has been making wooden spoons and selling them. What a great job he does! He donated one for a prize for PR. 8) Wonderful fellow FF friends. His son. Henry, was a typical boy! Going 90 miles an hour, playing in rocks with his dump truck. Had a great visit.
Nancy
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Got up and walked outside in Findlay, Ohio this morning.
The weather is incredible. It has got to be 25 degrees cooler here this morning then it is at home.
First thing I thought about when the cool air hit was .....Deer Season. ;D
Yup, it's 65°°on my thermometer here in Harrison. NICE. 8)
you want to be careful POSTON sounds/looks like Martha already got her deer and my be looking for a goat or two on the way ;D hope every one has a great time
Me thinks that even with pictures, Martha may be doing some "leg pulling". ??? ;) :)
Our waitress last night at Cracker Barrel is from Tenn. The lady at the check in desk at the hotel is from Greenville, SC.....somebody's looking out for me. 😊
I will stay clear of Martha's car.....I don't like riding on trailers on my side. 😂
Poston,
Here I come all the way to Charlotte and find you are gone. Taking grandkids to Carrowinds today. Going to see friends in Greenville SC tomorrow.
Can't believe Martha didn't go ahead and bring the venison to PR. Our regs are just call and report the road kill then we can take it home.
Went to New York years ago and driving through PA saw lots of deer on roadside dead and first thought they had more deer than we did in WV then decided economy was just better up there and they left them while we took them home to eat.
Y'all be careful on the road and have a good time at the PR.
WV, if I knew you were going to Carowinds I would have gotten you free passes.
Y"all have a good time. Our new Cabelas is right beside Carowinds. 😁
Quote from: POSTONLT40HD on July 31, 2015, 06:46:27 AM
Got up and walked outside in Findlay, Ohio this morning.
The weather is incredible. It has got to be 25 degrees cooler here this morning then it is at home.
First thing I thought about when the cool air hit was .....Deer Season. ;D
To bad you weren't born a SHEEP instead of a GOAT, then you'd stay warm under all the wool! ;D
Poston,
Now you tell me! I should have checked with you first. Daughter here in Charlotte got us half off coupon but still $180. Actually, seeing the sparkle in the 3 year old's eyes as we entered the park was worth every penny but I will check with you next time.
Stay safe and come see us some time.
Howdy,
Great train experience- your writing is impressive. My wife also enjoyed your description- we have made that trip many times and she recognized many of the same places. Watching people on the train is one of our favorite past times.
MM you travel the way we do - from one great food to the next. All these descriptions make me want to skip our family reunion some year and make the pig roast
Howdy,
Thanks for the description, you have a gift!
Thanks to all for the travel stories and travel safe!
Hello Howdy,a mighty nice post. Thanks for the adventure. Sounds like you enjoyed yourself. Eat some pig and post some more!
We just got back to the motel after the 2015 Pig Roast!! It was nothing short of a fine time with great people, wonderful food, and lots of visiting and catching up from last year! This was my first time to come to Jeff and Tammy's pig roast, and I was made welcome at every turn. I thank our hosts for the countless hours and many thousands of footsteps they took getting everything ready to feed the Forum members that were in attendance. I'm posting a few pictures of everyone heading for the food line!!!
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Thank you Martha for posting pictures. It looks like great fun and fellowship is being had by one and all.
Here are a few pictures from the pre-pig roast meet and greet from yesterday. It was great getting to meet everyone that came. Any forum members that have never attended, you definitely should try to go.
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So much fun!!!!!!
Today we will start making our slow way back toward home. The first stop will be Burch Run where there is a huge outlet shopping mall and a very nice restaurant that we found last year. Did I say good eats. After yesterday I wondered of I would ever eat again. :)
Tomorrow it will be Ohio.
Be safe and enjoy your trip. It is still "HOT" in MS. If your route is nearby, come by for visit.
I am in Ohio now.....you can have it Magic,
Orange barrels and all. 😡
Quote from: Magicman on August 02, 2015, 08:03:52 AM
Today we will start making our slow way back toward home. The first stop will be Burch Run where there is a huge outlet shopping mall and a very nice restaurant that we found last year. Did I say good eats. After yesterday I wondered of I would ever eat again. :)
Tomorrow it will be Ohio.
Drove right by the barn... :D
Here at Hidden Hill CG, where Magic and a few others left today we are having a series of nasty T-storms. At the site behind me a branch fell on the guys truck roof and left 4 small but noticeable dents, the truck is a 2015 Chevy with less than 5,000 miles, he isn't too happy.
Last night we dined at Tony's Restaurant in Burch Run.
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This burger has sautéed mushrooms, onions, & Swiss, with fries and a one pound side of bacon. They serve 11,000 pounds of bacon each week. :o
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It was soooo good that we went back there for breakfast this morning. Three eggs with hashbrowns, toast e/w strawberry jam. Nope, no Grits, and I have no idea where I would have put them anyway.
We will spend at least on night here in Berlin, OH.
I don't know where you put all that food Magic.
Good thing you won underwear. :o :o :o
We got home today around noon, and had a good drive getting back. Sometime during our journey, we got some bad news about our oldest living relative, a cousin and his wife of many years. They were both hospitalized, he with some gall bladder issues, and her with congestive heart failure and pneumonia, in critical condition along with other major problems. I was not looking forward to feeling the heat and humidity down here, especially after appreciating the cool breezes I enjoyed in Michigan, but home is where your roots are! I will be visiting at the hospital tomorrow.
I had a wonderful time at the PR, and look forward to the next one! Y'all all take care and be safe!!
An amazing thing happened to me on this PR trip. Customsawyer and I were eating breakfast at the Bob Evans restaurant in Midland, MI on Sunday morning, and they had grits on the menu ;D. That was a surprise. Of course I ordered them. Waitress did not seem too enamored of them, though :D.
And, a big thank you to a wonderful girl, Wildflower, who made sure that I had sweet tea at the PR. What a fine host and Lady.
Part two of my travels:
July 31, Time who knows, My wooden and brass pocket watch which I have owned for 30 years went through the laundry today and hopefully can be saved (again, this happened 25 years ago and while in Chicago a watch shop was able to get it restarted).
So I finaly reached Chicago on the train, whoo hoo! It was so much fun I just might return the same way (and not just because I already have a return ticket that's non-refundable). Meeting folks was everything I had hoped, and that combined with seeing the sights (at least from the right side of the train) was a true delight that didn't get tired. Riding the rails is a pleasent way to travel, quite, smooth, and there is lot's of room to spread out unless someone is sitting next to you. I was lucky to have both seats to myself all the way (thanks to the knife murdering lady who found another seat to sit in). Being able to walk from car to car exploring the train and it's people can be an adventure all by itself.
So Chicago... it's a BIG city. I live in a relativity small town of 93,000 outside a real city. Portland is around two million if you count all the suronding area. Chicago has that many living in the same block I stayed at and then you have the billion or so visitors walking the streets. Cars in Chicago have horns that are set at the factory by law to sound off every 100 feet just to say howdy. Every driver blows their horn for any reason and if someone doesn't move fast enough or refuses to run a red light, well you better turn down your hearing aids cause it's a real deafing experience. People are walking everywhere, around one another, between cars and I'm sure once when a car stopped in a cross walk some people opened the doors and walked through the car as well, at least those who couldn't climb over the offending blockage. Add in bicyles and delivery workers until there is no room for skateboarders to terrize the poor soul who just wants to get to the train of bus and you start to get some idea of what a person experiences on the streets and sidewalks. I didn't see any accidents but I'm sure there were chalk outlines showing the past victims and all the curbs must have been painted red cause that much blood would have been a real hazard. The panhandlers like to get a late start cause they keep long hours working the crowds wandering around when less adventurous folks are asleep in bed. I found myself victim of a new to me approch. A man in orange robes saw me looking at him as we approched one another and targeted me like a snake on a rat. Before I knew what was happening I had a colorful track in one hand and he was putting a wooden bead bracelet on the other. Then he mumbled a few words of an unknows dilect while handing me a book for me to write what I wanted him to pray about. When I thanked him, he suddenly could speak English and "requested" a donation. Being the sucker I am, I handed him a dollar only to have him demand five bucks explaining that is the cost of the bracelet. I again thanked him and returned his bracelet but he kept the dollar and moved on to his next target.
Now back to my wooden pocket watch. I bought the brass ringed with wood sides and a digital readout so long ago I paid only $3.00 for it new. It served me well and is lovely to have. Then I washed it in my jeans... So I figured I had killed it and as the company was no longer in business I was out of luck. But I kept it because it was so lovely and I hoped that one day I could have the inners replaced or something. Knowing I was coming to the Pigroast I started looking for a place that could perhaps do something with the watch. I found a jewlery center with hundreds of shops in a single building and thought a miracle just might be possible. It only cost me $15.00 for a new battery and the watch was working again, Yippeee. The next day I ran it through the was again. But now I knew how to open the watch and with a hairdryer from my hotel room it was once again working. I was unable to adjust the time readout but I learned if I removed and replaced the battery exactly at 1:00 o'clock it would be just fine. So now I have a working watch until I bust it again and am a happy camper.
My train was late arriving to Chicago as between breakdowns and Freight trains having the "right of way" over passenger trains we did a lot of sitting and waiting. I had planned on two days sightseeing so right off I was losing almost a day. I caught a cab to my Hostel and checked in. I was asinged a room with three other gentlemen, one from Korea, another from Mexico City, and the third I couldn't understand. Tiny room with two bunk beds and it's own bathroom. As the Hostel had just opened it was very nice with attentive staff in an old building renovated with plenty of mahoginy wood everywhere. Seeking a slice of famous Chicago style pizza I was directed to a popular place. There I found a waiting line an hour long, and please order your pizza now as it also will take an hour. "one slice, sorry you will need to order a whole pie and there are people waiting so what do you want"? $38 bucks and an hour later I was shown a table in a dining room filled to capacity (at 10:30 at night with people still waiting). "Here's your pizza," said the three people carrying it to my table, "and do you need a box, there are people still waiting"? I ate that pizza for four days as my Wife would have killed me to waste even a single piece. So at least my food budget was simpler than I had figured.
The next day was my introduction to the rail and transit systems. I walked, rode the trains, walked, got lost, walked, and looked at my tiny free hotel map a lot. Then I walked and searched for things I wanted to see inbetween walking everywhere. That night I was glad to crawl into my bunk and collasp into a deep sleep.
Sleeping with strangers isn't hard to do, just pretend they are someone you picked up the night before and can't remember their names. But as they were all guys it was a little hard to get used to. At least I didn't get waylaid by a Russian lady masusse who would drag me into a steam bath and beat me wuth birch branches as my daughter was afraid would happen to me.
I enjoyed my stay at the Hostel as it offered everything I was seeking at an affordable price. The location was supurb and the staff first rate. I wish them well for the future.
All to quickly my time for sightseeing was over and I needed to leave for the Pigroast Whoo Hoo! I of course got lost after picking up my "Not Dodge Charger" rental car (I got a brand new Dodge Journey for my journey). After wandering the city trying to follow my map while seeing the Great Lake (It's really bigggg) and hoping not to be smeared into mush by native traffic I finaly found myself going south around the bottom of Lake Superior through Indiana, and finaly into MI. I didn't get lost again until I stopped for the night in Mt. Pleasent. The next morning (Friday) I of course headed out going South rather than North and added an extra hour to my trip which was not too bad all concidering.
Getting closer to Clare MI I found a visitor center where I went in for directions. When I mentioned I was seeking Jeff's address there came a call "Another one for the PIGROAST!" Quicker than it took to ask I was given a prepared map with highlighted directions straight to the roast. Back on the road I soon rolled into Harrison with a smile in my heart as it is a lovely community sournding a lake with big trees, nice people, and even a place that sold Venisen and cheese meat sticks (thanks Jeff). Getting lost can add some fun as I got to see the entire town until I turned around and found the road I had missed the first time. Reaching Jeff's and Tammy's home was easy as all I needed to do was look for all the cars and trucks piled up on the street.
I tried to sneak in with a bunch of flowers the neighbor would never miss and of course spotted Jeff right away by his picture on the Fourm. Without saying who I was I asked for Tammy and Jeff pointed her out by saying in his mighty voice "She's the one with the big mellons" as she was about 100 yards away carrying two huge cabbages. She of course heard this and the look on his face when he realized what he had said was priceless! But she must have been in a forgiving mood as he lived to put his foot in his mouth another day. It took a while for them to figure out who I was but before long I was smothered in embraces and welcomes.
The way I was brought into the fold by EVERYONE could not have been any more friendly or accepting. I did not need anyone to hold my hand or make sure I was introduced as we had already read each others postings and already had established a bond of friendship. I met many old friends for the first time.
As it was Friday there were still many folks to arrive but the conversations were flowing, food was being eaten, beverages were everywhere and the spirit of the Pigroast was strong. Attending this gathering of members needs to be on everyone's calendar.
Saturday the weather was wonderful, blue sky and sunlight were tempered by the many oak trees and a breeze was making the leaves dance to a merry tune. With room to spread out Jeff and Tammy offer a wonderful location for many people to gather and a beautiful yard filled with tables, chairs, a fire-ring a blazing, and when people are arriving their dog Tucker who is a mighty black lab will charge you at full speed from across the yard to the sound of people calling "FRIENDLY DOG, FRIENDLY DOG". Tucker looked the new folks over and returned to trying to get someone to toss his toys for him.
I grabbed a chair and joined into conversations with an ever changing number of members. At no time was I not included or did anyone ever not welcome me into their group. People were always seeing new faces, old friends, or different topics to explore so it was an ever evolving party.
There were an amazing number and verity of door prizes, some from the Forum's sponsors but many more from members with huge hearts wanting to share with the group. Woodmizer, Stihl, and of course Logrite/Legrite/Blue Creeper brought items that everyone lusted after. Jeff had designed several games to play and with lot's of kids plus the dogs to watch everyone had a way to enjoy themselves. Jeff roasted a whole hog giving off a smell of delight, and it took a team of people to do the "pulling" as the critter was reduced to trays of meat and added to a tables filled with vittles. After everyone had their fill the tables still held enough for a church social of starving worshipers after a long service.
I won a door prize of Maple syrup and could not be more pleased as I could not figure how I was going to pack a chain saw donated by Stihl for my return trip back home on the train or what I would do with it once I got home as my Wife won't let me play with sharp things anymore (a result of every new pocket knife I get resulting in stitches). The syrup came in a lovely maple leaf shape that will add to my creative designs in the future. Shirts, hats, and a bevy of other items were spread out and everyone got several different items to take home. But the best was the relationships and bonds of the members that will last a lifetime. I could not imagine a more welcoming or friendly group of people and I thank you all for accepting me with your friendship.
It was a great event.
August 2 Night-time and in a THUNDER and Lighting storm.
In Oregon where I live, a thunder/lightning storm is a real rare occurrence. Seldom is it more than a very few minutes, bringing no rain, and short lived. Today while driving toward Grand Rapids MI it was like going through a powerful car wash set on high. The heavens opened up with enough rain to last my home a month in just a few minutes. People talk about Oregon being a rainy region but let me tell you, we got nothing like what is going on now. Most Oregonians do no worry as the light sprinkles are not an inconvenience. What I saw here was entire buildings and trees floating down flood filled streets plus wind that picked up dog houses and delivered them (dogs and all) to the next county. The radio was announcing Weather Alerts, Storm Warnings, and Tornado Advisories and they call this mild weather. I tell you, I'm ready to return to the land where a severe winter lasts seven hours and deposits almost an eight inch of snow.
Another great post Howdy. Kinda reminds me of Tom's posting. :)
Thank you Howdy for the update and I look forward to reading about your trip home.
Howdy is such a gentle and loving man. Meeting and visiting with him was truly one of life's treasures.
Even though we couldn't attend I'd like to thank Jeff and Tammy also for this, and also all of you that did for the wonderful posts and pictures that makes the rest of us feel like we were there. Howdy, you need to write a book, I'll buy the first copy ;), and Magic you need to put together a cook book ;D. I'm sure glad it was a great time and hope everyone returns safely.
Berlin, OH is very much an Amish settlement, so we are enjoying some of their culture.
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We visited a cheese "factory" this morning.
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This is one of the cheese making processes.
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We had a nice noon meal at a local restaurant and I enjoyed a slice of Fresh Peach Pie. food6
uhuh, hence the cook book, you're always showing pictures that make me hungry! :)
This thread and others from the pig roast are fantastic this year. I am not sure if they are better or more people participated making them better or what but I am certainly enjoying the PR threads and attendees comments!
Howdy I would buy your book too. Thank you for writing about your experiences. You have the gift of gab!
As stated before Lynn's postings make my tongue slap me silly!
We made it home this afternoon after another stormy night in the camper with no problems. Actually I am just taking the wife's word for it when I say we had a storm overnight as I slept through it. Anyway once again a great trip.
We spent a couple of days in Berlin, OH.
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I found some of the grocery store items fascinating. It looks like the individual items are weighed out into plastic bags and labeled.
The campground that we stayed in provided "free" firewood.
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It consisted of lumber cutoffs from various Amish cabinet/woodworking shops. I knew Oak, Poplar, Maple, Cherry, & Ash, but there were a few that I did not recognize. Obviously they were not native to a Grit state. ;D
Most of the log trucks that I saw were hauling tree length Ash logs. Maybe they are trying to get ahead of the EAB's or just have a need for Ash lumber. The logs appeared to be from healthy fresh felled trees.
The trip through Southern Ohio on Hwy 83 was scenic and hilly. In West Virginia it was totally wooded and very mountainous. The only level ground was along the streams/rivers. We passed through Pikeville. KY; the historical location of the Hatfield/McCoy dispute. It rained the entire day, but we were traveliing anyway.
We are now in Johnson City, TN for the night, and will stop over in Pigeon Forge for probably a couple of days.
Lynn,
That is some beautiful country you are traveling thru. My oldest friend's parents lived in Kenova W.V. and he and I spent many days deer hunting around Beech Fork Lake , Great times and great country. Pigeon Forge is Nancy's next bucket list destination. Be careful on the road, and bring us some rain on your way West. Andy
Howdy, I just have had the opportunity to read your travel log. Very interesting. You do a good job of telling your story. It was a pleasure to meet and talk to you as we made our way thru that great chow line. Hope your trip back home was filled with pleasure. bg
We are settled in here in Pigeon Forge, TN. for a few days. :)
The driving has not been bad at all, and the new camper is meeting all of our expectations. There is a learning curve with the 5th wheel backing, but I have not failed to put it where I want it yet.
Quote from: Magicman on August 07, 2015, 06:18:54 PM
I have not failed to put it where I want it yet.
You could put it in Rock Hill, S.C. for a few days before you go back.
I have several jobs you could help me with while the ladies shop. :D
I noticed that you enjoy good food while traveling, try the Applewood Farmhouse Grill while you are near Sevierville.
Thanks for the tip kenlt30. food3
David, thanks for the offer, but we do have a deadline as in a Great Granddaughter's Birthday Party that we will host. We are just squeezing out all of the time that we can on this trip. ;D
Lynn, Pat, Glad you are having a good time.
Magic, did you or are you going to Smokey Mt. Knife Works? Lots of sharp things there. Also not too far to Bushes Baked Beans factory.
You might pass by the Worlds Biggest Bible Store on the main drag going into Pigeon Forge/Sevierville. As it turns out, their Bibles were no bigger than one I had. :D If go to Dollywood, go see one of the Kingdom Heirs shows.
Glad to hear you kids are having fun, someday I hope either you'll make it to Nebraska or we'll make it to Mississippi, crispy chicken is the only way I can eat it ;). Safe travels.
August 3 and getting ready to return to Chicago and then HOME.
I have itchy feet. The doctor says it's not Athletes Foot and gave me a cream so it helps, but my desire to travel and see the country is not something a cream can help. Twice I have driven a bus filled with teenagers from Oregon to Florida and back, once up the East coast to Newark then back to Florida before returning to Oregon. In the past my travels have taken me up and down the West Coast and a cruise to Alaska with family remains a highlight. I love to go on road trips. Letting my imagination wander when I see an old building that craves redevelopment or gentle rolling land where a home could stand with trees and hopefully even a cave for exploring. That is my passion. Finding a small town dinner with warm smiles and great pie, what could be finer? It's a big world out there just waiting to be discovered. I have even gone to Brazil but that's another story.
No matter where I have gone the call to return to home is strong. I sometimes feel like birds or butterflies returning every year to the same place. Home is were my heart is. Home is where my family is. Home is where I belong and home is were I am going now. I want to eat the wonderful dinners my Wife makes, sit in my recliner, and watch what has recorded on TV in my absence. I want to talk with my grandchildren, play with their dogs, and listen to the quiet of my world. My vegetable garden needs me to supervise the watering and picking of produce while sitting in my chair put there just for that purpose. I haven't even looked to see if my lottery ticket was the big winner and I could be sitting in a coach seat when I could have a sleeper cabin. I need to get home quickly - there are things to do and I need to be home to ignore them. Besides, my Wife might have a list of stuff that needs attending to. I called home and learned my 15-year-old grandson fixed his great-grandmothers internet connection (something I could never have figured out but still...).
The train has left Chicago and is rolling Westward. It's a full train again however the family across the isle ("lady" and two young children) have purchased three tickets so the conductor has assigned the seat next to me for their use if needed. I say "lady" because the language she uses is so coarse and unladylike she would be refused service in a biker bar. I can only imagine what she is doing to her children's future and hearing them speak does not suggest they will stray far from the example she offers. I guess different regions have different standards for decency and I am of an age where I do not like strong language especially around kids.
August 5 Duck Country
I don't know where the train currently is (the overhead PA just announced we are approaching Devils Lake ND) but I know I am in car 2 seat 27 and in duck country. The surrounding terrain looks like someone made their bed by spreading out the top blanket without first smoothing the sheet. Gentle bumps on a flat countryside. With all the water mixed in with the grain fields there are plenty of ducks around. I may not be a hunter but that does not mean I can't appreciate what I see. Why would anyone name their community "Devils Lake"? There are many odd names around the country that beg to be investigated.
Currently my ideal way of traveling and sightseeing is by 26 foot GMC Motor home manufactured between 1973 and 1978. They made a 23 foot model but it's the 26 for me and if I could find one I would rather have a 29 foot stretched model. Just big enough to have some room but not so large that it would be like driving a truck everywhere. I would like to have a "Royale" model with a center kitchen (you would just have to look it up to understand more) and twin beds in the back for the grandkids. The couch in the front makes into twin bunk beds so there is room for just so many. My Wife's idea of traveling is from three star hotel to four star hotels when she is tired of "roughing it, with an indoor pool of course. Somehow traveling in close quarters and still needing to cook, clean, and do laundry is not a vacation to her. Years ago I read the book "Blue Highways" by William Least Heat Moon and found in his writing a kindred spirit. Avoiding the interstate highways by seeking out the twisty, meandering, local ways people get from farm to store and schools are just the ticket for me. Avoiding the big box stores to discover how personal business relations existed in the days of my youth (I'm an old man now if you couldn't figure it out) and still getting a milkshake at a soda fountain sounds like the simple life. Remember having a charge account handled in a notepad ledger at the grocery store?
I have so much enjoyed this trip. Going to the pigroast combines my passions of travel with the joy of meeting new friends and to do it for a reason that makes sense to me makes all the time away from home, discomfort of sitting for days (and nights) in a railcar that hasn't been cleaned or maintained for the last few years, and eating out of a sack/box/container worth it all.
Tips for riding the train:
As the cost of a sleeper cabin is very high most people get a coach seat. There is a good amount of room between seats even when the seat ahead of you is reclined. Bring a blanket and sweatshirt because the HVAC is set on Artic cold all the time. I found if I stuff a couple of tee shirts above the window where the cold air blasts down it helps a lot.
Bring a pillow or something to put between the window and your shoulder to keep it warm as well.
Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take off and put on. You will need them whenever you go down stairs for the bathroom (don't even try to imagine why).
The train is ALWAYS moving in three different directions ALL the time. First there is the incredible smoothness of starting and stopping unless the train makes a sudden lurch. Then combine with a side-to-side rocking that is always changing in rhythm. Plus the bouncing and jiggling as we travel across tracks that are built for freight not passenger comfort.
The seats are industrial strength but after many millions of miles and countless passengers they are just plane tired. Bring something to sit on unless you weigh so little you don't leave footprints in the sand.
Carry on baggage remains accessible in luggage racks on the lower level or overhead shelves above your seat. The seat I chose has behind it a place for a garbage container and I have put my large bag behind it next to the wall. That way it is easily opened and I don't have to go down stairs or stuff it overhead. I chose this seat for my return trip while sitting across the isle last week. It offers expanded room and the overhead light for the stairs does not brother me.
Bring your own food unless you want to eat prepackaged and warmed up stuff at fine dinning prices. I am amazed at the cost of everything from $3.00 cans of soda to $25.00 steak dinners. Even a salad will put you back $10 bucks.
Be ready to climb narrow twisty stairs every time you need to use the restroom (and that's a kind thing to call an outhouse on train-tracks). The restrooms are less than portable toilets and more than outhouses. You won't enjoy it but if you need it I guess it's a sign of endurance. There is one lower compartment handicapped toilet (open for all) that is somewhat larger as well as a special seating area for folks unable to venture upstairs but you need a special ticket ride there.
Understand you are riding with 60 or so of you new best friends and a little give and take goes a long way. Noise and cell phone calls are heard by everyone. Trying to sleep is a constant activity. Reading the same line over and over is a result of the jiggling and you will just have to get used to it.
Electrical outlets (two) are under the window for every set of seats. There are foot rests, leg rests, seats that lay back, and you won't be comfortable anyway so make the best of things. Smoking outside on the platform is allowed on longer stops about every four hours or so when the train needs to refuel or move many passengers.
The snack bar is below the observation car and the dining car is two cars ahead of that. The handicapped restroom is just before the snack car but there is no signage so you will have to explore. At least that is how it was for the Empire Builder running across Western America.
Unless you board at the start of the line, look for tags over the seats showing where open seats are. Each tag indicates the place where the passenger will get off so finding an open seat is possible. Some seats are reserved for parties of two so if you are traveling with a companion you have a chance of setting together.
Dress is casual, picking you nose is optional. Trying to move through the cars while traveling is an adventure in keeping your feet and not landing on anyone. But if you see someone interesting, you just might accidentally fall into the seat next to them and start a conversation. If you ride my car and find the ball that belongs to my trackball please let me know. It went AWOL in North Dakota.
Riding the train long distances is an exercise in endurance and opportunity to explore the country. You will have the chance to meet plenty of new people, see some amazing scenery and explore you inner self all at the same time.
August 6, HOME AT LAST
Clicking my tired old feet together didn't get me home like Dorothy and Toto, but somehow I made it home. My Wife didn't move away, the battle between the gopher and the dogs has continued (my yard is losing), people remember me as having once lived there, and the best thing of all is my bed doesn't move.
I walked in and said hello to my grandsons, put my luggage in the bedroom and took a shower before anything else. Then I chatted for a few minutes before laying down for a nap. My Wife returned home from work and woke me up that evening in time to go out for dinner with family but I was so confused it took a while to get my brain working.
It has been a whole day that I have been home and between naps I have unpacked, sat in my chair, looked at the internet, gotten in trouble with my daughter, and discovered my neighbor has been replacing the fence between our properties and would I like to pay for it as he is doing all the work? I am still tired but have done my laundry so I have clean clothes to wear and while I cannot say anything has changed here at home, I know they missed me (at least I hope so).
Was the trip worth it?
Yes.
Would I go again?
Yes. Next time I would fly however, I am getting too old for adventure. As I type this I can hear the calling of a train whistle in the distance and my yearning to travel is not yet quenched so who knows what the future holds.
Did I meet anyone?
It was so rewarding to meet some of the good people who populate the Forestry Forum. We are as varied as a field of wildflowers. We share common interests and yet each have a different approach to the tasks we accomplish. Like a forest that is stronger because of the different kinds of trees intermixed throughout we can with stand adversity. The Forestry Forum is a wonderful group of people sharing, caring, and standing strong for each other. The sponsors are first rate and produce quality products. Thank you Logrite for your generosity. Thank you Tammy and Jeff for hosting us at your home and for the boxopigroast you sent with me home.
I am proud to be a member.
Heck of a story there, very enjoyable read, my desire to ride the train out west has diminished quite a bit now,
Thank you Howdy for sharing your "going home" adventure. And Thanks also to your Wife for sharing you with us for that too short of a visit. :)
Howdy, this adventure of yours has been amazing to read about! Makes me feel as if I was the one on the train. I still want you to have the straw hat, so if you PM me with your address, I can get it into the mail. Thanks for writing your adventures down, and it was great to meet you at the PR. Glad you are home!!
Re-assures my opinion of train travel.. but indeed was an adventure that Howdy won't forget, nor will we.
Thanks for the write-up.
Today has been a lazy day for us here in Pigeon Forge.
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I was thinking about Howdy when we went to the local Flea Market. We did not buy anything. I wanted a draw knife, but I was not willing to pay $45 for it.
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Yup, we stopped by the Smoky Mountain Knife Works. Again, we bought nothing, but I did drop a few $$ at the Tool Store across the street. I will return tomorrow because I thought of something else that I "need". ;D
Howdy, your flair with the written word has once again captivated me. I enjoyed the trip with you. If you ever write your life story down and sell the book let me know I want a copy! Thanks Magicman for starting it and everyone that has taken the time to post.
Another mighty fine post Howdy!!
Yes, thanks Howdy for letting us take a ride on the train with you back to Oregon. Your writing made it in real time. Anyway glad your home safe and sound with your loved ones which no doubt they are glad you are back with them. And the neighbor will be glad to collect any money you have left from the trip to pay for the fence. Also MM thanks for your photos and stories of your trip, I am sure you had a very good time. bg
Did I just see you on a Ferris Wheel Bill??
Yes MM. That is only the second time I have ever ridden one. bg
At least you were smiling. :)
Quote from: Magicman on August 07, 2015, 06:18:54 PM
We are settled in here in Pigeon Forge, TN. for a few days. :)
The driving has not been bad at all, and the new camper is meeting all of our expectations. There is a learning curve with the 5th wheel backing, but I have not failed to put it where I want it yet.
Oh Pigeon Forge. The land of constant traffic. That's about 2.25 hrs from me. My sister lives about 30 minutes from the Knife Works. You turn sort of a half mile past it coming from the interstate.That's about as far in as I go.
Yes, and thankfully we have learned to go East and get off of the main drag. (Parkway) Most of the folks moved out this morning, so we can enjoy a day or so with relatively little traffic woes. We will probably go to Cade's Cove tomorrow. We have been many times, but not on weekends.
Thank you Howdy for your most enjoyable story. I too felt like I was along for the ride. And I did enjoy our short visit at the PR.
And again I must say that I enjoyed my quick trip to the PR with all those renewed friendships.
david G
carry on
Today was a lazy day. We had/ate too much for lunch, but OK because no evening meal.
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We were served with portions for two.
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My plate has Beef Pot Roast, Rice & Gravy, Corn Casserole, Tossed Salad, Catfish Filet, Squash Casserole, Macaroni & Cheese, Cheese Biscuits, Corn Fritters, and topped off with Peach Cobbler. food3
OK, I have been accused of being "nuts".
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And here is verification that your suspicions are true.
We made the ~75 mile loop through some of the Smoky Mountains and Cade Cove.
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Not a real good picture, but we saw three good bucks.
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The Smoky Mountains upheld their namesake.
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I never tire of seeing the old homesteads.
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And the conditions that the early settlers lived in.
We had three different sightings of Black Bears.
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We approached the first one feeding along the roadside.
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The second was feeding along a creek.
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And the third was just moseying along.
It is forecast to be 100° at home tomorrow so we are glad to be here and not there. :)
Many years ago before Pigeon Forge/Seiverville became so popular used to be a little gift shop you could stop at that had a bear in a cage about 10x10 and tall enough to stand in.
Back then cokes in a glass bottle were 15 cents and for a dollar you could by one and the store propriter would take it in to the bear who would set on a bench and take the coke holding it with his front paws and set and drink it.
Sounds like you and Pat are having a nice trip. But you better hurry up and get home before you starve to death. bg
Love the photos of the Smoke Mts., the bears, old homestead, the food, and the nut, I meant the squirrel!!!!!! Looks like y'all have had a wonderful trip going back home.
I enjoyed meeting you and Pat at the pig roast, and hope to see y'all again in the future!
Martha
I guess that we will make another move toward home today. Our destination goal will be Tannehill SP (http://www.tannehill.org/), which is South of Birmingham, AL.
Tannehill is a real interesting place. I especially liked the frontier ironworks. If you are there at the right time, they fire up the foundry and make a batch of pig iron. Usually on weekends, there's some real good music, old fashioned pickin and sangin. enjoy....It's about time you got back to sawin before the pine borers get into all them pine logs that's waiting on you..
Lynn, How do you and Pat stay so slender?
Quote from: petefrom bearswamp on August 11, 2015, 09:47:48 AM
Lynn, How do you and Pat stay so slender?
Look at what they accomplish ;) :)
David doing the happy dance for being home.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fF0pIGqors
Well I think he had that purple drank again when he got there ;D
Very pleasant surprise yesterday when I got a phone call from Magicman. He told me he and Pat were near Birmingham and wanted to come by for a visit on their trip home. They arrived at our place at lunch time, went to Mel's place in Smithville for lunch and back home to visit. Spent several hours talking over memories and the events at the Pig Roast. Some Forum members ear's may have been burning (old saying) as we talked about several of you and the pleasant memories we have with Forum events and activities thru the years. Safe travels my friend.
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wwsjr, Pat, and Magicman
Very nice photo. Good to see you Willy. bg
wwsjr, Isn't it amazing what turns up when you least expect it!! A real treat for sure is visiting with that pair. You are in my thoughts daily, and will soon be over for a visit also. 8) 8) Andy
That is a great picture! :)
After a wonderful visit and meal with wwsjr (Willie) and his wife, Pat and I spent the night at a Mississippi State University campground South of Starkville, and then made the short drive home today.
3K miles, 12 states, and 17 days of traveling had to finally come to and end, but we had stretched the PR trip as far as we could. The new 5th wheel camper performed flawlessly and so did the 3 year old F250 gasser averaging 11.7 MPG. I was very pleased.
You better go back to work Lynn. :D :D
He might starve.
Quote from: WDH on August 13, 2015, 08:12:21 PM
He might starve.
Not if he follows the Peter Drouin 4 foot sticker plan. :D :D :D
I have not given sawing much thought for the past few weeks. I guess that will soon change because because there are messages on the answering machine.
Quote from: Magicman on August 13, 2015, 07:57:26 PM
After a wonderful visit and meal with wwsjr (Willie) and his wife, Pat and I spent the night at a Mississippi State University campground South of Starkville, and then made the short drive home today.
3K miles, 11 states, and 17 days of traveling had to finally come to and end, but we had stretched the PR trip as far as we could. The new 5th wheel camper performed flawlessly and so did the 3 year old F250 gasser averaging 11.7 MPG. I was very pleased.
Good you made it home safe, And thanks for the pics of your trip. 8)
I am going to miss the food pictures. Like i is on a diet . Lazerdan
Glad to hear you made it home too, there's no place like it you know ;)
Finally got the pictures out of the camera and into the FF gallery. So here is proof that train travel is a great way to see the country while attending the Pigroast...
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This is the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington not far from Portland.
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The train was made up with two level cars, the lower was for getting on/off, bathrooms, and luggage storage.
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Observation car seating, one per train. One end offered seats that swiveled while the other end had tables. On the lower level was the snack bar.
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Remember the train was always moving in every possible direction at the same time. Pictures are somewhat blurry.
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Tight stairs between levels.
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Moving between cars required opening two doors and being ready to step from one car moving in one direction to another moving in a different direction. Made for fun times.
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Typical restroom at the start of the trip (you didn't want to know how it looked after a couple of days). While restrooms were sufficient in numbers it was a tight squeeze to fit in. A handicapped restroom was in one of the cars and was somewhat larger.
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And to prove I was really there, here is a picture of the guest of honor being disassembled by a team of ready volunteers.
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People had a great time at the Pigroast. This is something every member needs to plan on attending someday.
I had a wonderful time and thank Jeff, Tammy, and especially the good folks at Logrite for their generosity in assisting me to go this year.
Good picture of the elusive Furby!
Thank you Howdy for including the train pictures. That is the closest that I have never been to riding on one.
Quote from: POSTONLT40HD on August 13, 2015, 08:17:01 PM
Quote from: WDH on August 13, 2015, 08:12:21 PM
He might starve.
Not if he follows the Peter Drouin 4 foot sticker plan. :D :D :D
This might be kinda old but what is the 4ft sticker plan?