Home stretch

Great return so far, but I knew I'd hit a snag somewhere. Left Iowa City this morning (along with Bill & Hill) and headed east.

I hit the most horrible weather on 70 heading toward Columbus, OH. I'd hoped to make it to Zanesville, but drove into the biggest, blackest clouds with frightening lightning, and it was never-ending. People pulled off under the underpasses--even trucks pulled over. I plugged along, I knew if I stopped I could be stuck for a long time. Finally exited where they had some motel signs, but I couldn't find the motels because I couldn't see. Utilized Bertha's search feature, she said turn left, said I was at destination, etc. but I didn't believe her (I couldn't see because of driving rain!) Fortunately she also gave a phone number, so I called the motel and asked if they had rooms and if so, how could I find them. They had rooms and they were just a block away. Another vote for GPS.

Anyway, unless I run into that storm again, I should be home tomorrow (Thursday) night. So John, I'll have plenty of time to prepare for your arrival!

Iowa City

I'm staying in a 37.99 Motel 6 tonight, Iowa City, IA, pirating internet. Bill & Hill in town, that's all the news. I figure I've only got one more night--somewhere in Ohio--and I should be home late Thursday. John & Co. to arrive Friday afternoon, I know I'll be tired but I just love being around those two boys

Kadota, S.D.

I'm Kadota, S.D., tonight. I left Butte, Mont., this morning - just calculated my mileage - 675 miles today!

I left at 7 a.m., arrived around 4:40. It was 75 all the way. I know things will slow down as I head eastward, so glad I did so well today. Weather perfect, though much hotter than it was when I went through here three weeks ago.

Winging it

Left Seattle this morning, 55 degrees, I'm in Butte, MT tonight, 85 when I arrived. Made reservations for South Dakota tomorrow night. Note to self: next time factor in traveling during July 4 holiday (many motels are full).

I spent most of the time planning my trip TO the west coast; this part I'm making up as I go along. I learned that the white figure up on the mountain is "Our Lady of the Rockies." I didn't even realize I was IN the Rockies.