Even though we got in late last night, we were up early. It was time to go home. Weather was still not real good, but wasn't raining hard. We got on I 64 and struck out for Virginia.
With the adventure over, I have to say, it was nice to see that Virginia sign and the mountains. Got home right around 3:00. Only problem.....Trevor had locked the top lock and I didn't have that key, so I had to call him to come and let me in!! Becky and I unloaded all....and I mean ALL .... my stuff onto the porch and I sent her home while I sat down on the steps and waited for T to arrive! Was glad he did, as he helped me get ALL that stuff in the house!!
I have to say, this was definitely a trip of a life time. I can't believe I say all I saw and did all I did. Our country is beautiful. Every state is unique and wonderful and has so much to offer. Yes, even Indiana and Ohio and Iowa!!! hehehe!!!
It was nice to have a basic plan, but be free to change it when we chose and wander where we wished to go. We saw so many things off the beaten path.
And the people!!! Oh my! We met the nicest people all over the country, from hotel clerks to waitresses to fellow travelers. We did not meet anyone who was not pleasant. This world is full of good people. We tend to forget that! I enjoyed talking to so many different people everywhere!
On our way home, we learned about the fires in California and I absolutely cry for the people there. The Napa and Sonoma area was stunningly beautiful. I cringe to think of it burnt and destroyed. One of our favorite places, Paradise Ridge Winery, burned to the ground. So sad. but all the staff is reported accounted for and okay. We feared the beautiful house we rented for the week in Glen Ellen would be gone, but have since heard it and the surrounding houses faired well. We are delighted for all those involved there. We have also checked on our other favorite places, Beringer Winery and Kunde Winery. So far, they, too, are all ok.
Other than wine country, I have to say my favorite place is a toss up between Sedona, Arizona and the Badlands in SD. I think Sedona wins by a hair. The rock formations in Sedona just spoke to my heart and the church built into the rocks was amazing. There is just something very magical in that area that I loved and I can't wait to return to savor its beauty again.
All that being said, there is truly no place like home. As I said, once the adventure was over, we were both excited to get back to Virginia.!!
I want to thank Becky Farthing for inviting me to accompany her on her retirement trip. We worked and played well together and it was such a pleasure traveling with her. We had so much fun.
I want to urge everyone to get out there and travel. We decided that while it is nice to travel with kids and something they need to do, you need to plan a trip once they are out of the house and go discover this wonderful world. There is a beauty out there that I don't think anyone can fully appreciate until you are 40 or older. Don't put it off. Tomorrow is not promised!! And....keep a blog. It has been so helpful in reminding me of everything we did and all the fun we had. So glad I took the time to write each night!!
We are already talking about another trip in a couple of years. Need to get back to Napa and Sonoma and Sedona plus a few other places we missed. Until our next adventure, I bid you peace and blessings!!
Marge
What an adventure!! So happy for you both!! Lifetime of memories made!
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