John had always wanted to drive across the country in an RV, and I resisted this idea for a year or more. When we plan vacations, I always say that I don't want to do the same things I do at home and have doing them be more difficult. John pointed out that Justin and Ryan were 9 and 11 years old; this would be educational, fun, and a family-bonding experience, and if we put it off much longer, the boys wouldn't want to go with us at all, so I finally came around. We bought a used 23-foot RV, stocked it with all the comforts of home, and planned a trip to Yellowstone. On June 23, 2002 we left New Jersey and drove 240 miles to Bedford, PA. Our plan was to stay in campgrounds with pools so the boys would be happy and we could all relax after a day of driving.
The next day we drove 430 miles to Greenfield, IN and swam again.
The third day we had some trouble with the RV, fixed it in a Walmart parking lot, but still did 500 miles to make it to Grain Valley, MO, where we swam once more.
June 26th found us 420 miles farther in Goodland, KS. We knew we were in Kansas by the combine on the overpass.
I'm sure swimming happened here, but just for some variety, here's a different type of picture from the pool.
Next week: We head further west and do some more interesting things besides driving and swimming. (Promise!)
Oh, this is going to be great fun to relive with you!
ReplyDeletewow! I did not know this about you and I love that you have documented this journey. doesn't it seem like yesterday? quick question, are they digital or print photos you are scanning. Either way what a labor of love!!
ReplyDeleteAs soon as I read this, I was in: "It's sort of like a modern day Oregon Trail Game, except we didn't have to caulk the RV to float across the Kansas River and nobody died of dysentery."
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to your series! My father took us across county several times during my life. We lived in a tent, camping along the way. I learned so much from the experience.
ReplyDeleteI love this - especially that it took you a year to come around to a vacation that you "do the same things I do at home" only doing them is more difficult. I have to tell you I laughed right out loud at that one! Yep! Been there done that. I learned that the term vacation is definitely relevant! But, all those pools!
ReplyDeleteThis is great! Decades and decades ago, when I was around 12 my Mom packed up 3 of us kids and took off across the country. My Dad flew out to meet us when he could take some time off. It was a wonderful trip that we all still talk about. I'll enjoy your installments so much!!
ReplyDeleteI love this! We did it in 1971 camper bus when I was 12 and my brother was 10. Lots of pool action then too. Can't wait to see what's up next!
ReplyDeleteThis is wonderful, Bonny! I can't wait to follow along on your Epic Vacation. (We had an Epic Trip West around that same time. But not in an RV. Perhaps we were on the highway at the same time?) Ah, pools! Nothing quite like them after a long drive! XO
ReplyDeleteoh my goodness, I'm excited for the next installment! I have to admit your "vacation" does sound a little like my (and Marc's) idea of Hell, so I'm just happy to be along for the virtual ride. and the photos. your boys were at a perfect age for the trip (yay, John!)
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, how fun!! Looking forward to learning more about your trip!
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