Making Good Progress

Saturday was a long run from Williston, Vermont to Dayton, Ohio (Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio).

After some sleep and a leisurely start, I was back on the road this morning; through Indiana, Illinois, and a good chunk of Missouri.  Thanks to a little detour (construction and a misleading sign) I was routed right through St. Louis.  The UP side is that I got to see the Arch without having to find a parking place (remember there's a trailer behind my car).

Just as I passed out of St. Louis (actually, some before also) I hit some good old Midwestern stormy weather; huge raindrops, lots of water, darkness...except for the flashes of lightning, and wind.  It's that white-knuckle kind of driving where you turn the radio off and totally focus on the road.

Then, just as fast as I drove into it, I drove out of it.  It was time for a gas stop and I was really ready to be done so I looked for one of those all-in-one stops; gas, food, and accommodations.  It thought I found one but the only hotel was closed, so I got gas and went back on the road.  On my way in to use the restrooms, I realized that I was finally among "my people".  Living in Vermont, I am always among Ben & Jerry's people, but in the Midwest, I find Baskin Robbins people. :)

I finally spotted a string of hotels just off the highway.  I decided to try one that I had never heard of (dangerous, I suppose).  The price was right and the desk staff was friendly.  And, they are hip to the ways of travelers...family-sized media room!  Fitness studios, pools, restaurants - I've seen those - but never a media room.  How fun.

 Tomorrow should be a relatively relaxing day as I cruise into Tulsa to visit family.