Day 59 - We're Home!

Aaghhh, home sweet home! Greg kept promising me he’d author the last blog entry, but I didn’t realize he meant just the title “We’re Home”. I’m sure he will add his two cents when he is done scrubbing the bugs, dirt and grime of 26 states (and one province) off the trailer. Or more than likely he’ll dodge the assignment by summarizing, “I liked everything.”

The kids were goofy excited to get home. I was genuinely surprised when Greg said he was past-done, too – tired of all the driving. However, I (apparently alone) could keep going – maybe return the way we came?! I would do anything to avoid unpacking, going back to school, work, soccer, and middle-school. But the fairytale is over and reality is inevitable. The money is out, and we are rich with memories. We missed the heck out of puppy Kiara (and kitty Phoenix), who were thankfully waiting for us when we got home. Now I am remembering that home has its perks – it’s roomy, comfortable, comes with more than an ounce of privacy, has good friends and neighbors, and a reliable internet connection – to name a few. Oddly, both Greg and I commented that our green tile kitchen counters looked unfamiliar.

The rocky start of our trip was appalling. Never in a million years did I think the trailer would fall off our truck! Just looking at the pictures gives me a sick, distressed feeling! That beginning so easily could have been the end. I was quite scared to literally “get behind the wheel” again – but the accident only strengthened our resolve to go. At that point I didn’t think we’d make it all the way around the U.S., but we were willing to at least try, and take the adventure day by day.

In today’s age, I could not imagine taking this trip without both Tina (our GPS) and the iPhone. They were invaluable tools that kept us in touch and on track! Sometimes we were a little too trusting of Tina, who took us on some cockamamie side-trips, and politely only said “recalculating” when we ignored her (I’m sure she could have used some other choice words from time to time). But overall we had shockingly uncomplicated roads with hardly any traffic to mention! And more often than not, the kids were amazingly quiescent when it came to the long drives – though a couple times the bad-energy level crescendoed after excessive non-stop hours in the car.

I cannot narrow down any particular “favorite” of the trip. Gradually the distinct cities and activities started to fade, and meshed into an overall incredible experience. I sincerely loved just about every minute of it! It was so exciting to see such a variety of different places and old buildings, especially when they connected historic moments together. I cherished Christopher’s constant adventurous interest in the trip! Another aspect I religiously enjoyed was the euphoric feeling I got as we arrived at every new campground. If I could do it again, I’d spend the time to take more copious notes as well as be more serious about the photography aspect.

Jeremy’s sole criteria for trip highlights was the strength of his cell phone service, which was utterly unreliable across all of the northern states after NYC. At that point, it was just a waiting game, and he sincerely tried to make the best out of the activities that were between him and home. He’d get so excited when he found a bar of reception! He won’t admit to relishing much else about the trip, though some day he will.

Christopher delighted in just about everything we did! What an amazing fascination and constant drive for exploration he had! Being completely open-minded, his learnings and experience will absolutely reward his future. His only disappointment was sibling rivalry.

Kate doesn’t have the capacity to summarize her journey – other than to say she had a good time. Surprisingly she remembers a lot of what we did, esp. all the camping, New York, and buying her American Girl doll.

What the kids don’t comprehend now is how much our trip will affect the rest of their life references. So many of their future experiences will have them saying, “hey, I’ve been there!” or “I remember that”.

Our souvenirs: Greg and I collected magnets (to display in the trailer) and patches (to make a blanket) from each place, and an occasional t-shirt. Kate always wanted a spoon, but got an assortment of girly things like a plate, purse, necklace, doll, etc. The boys acquired quite the stockpile of assorted objects such as postcards, duck tape, cards, cap guns (and ammo), coins (Christopher collected state quarters), miniatures, quill and wax set, rocks, silly signs, and candy.

Thanks to everyone who read and made comments on the blog. You kept me motivated! Selfishly the blog is now a completed journal for our family scrapbook. However, I also hope it also aids future travelers!

And lastly, we are left wondering … where to next?

Day 58 – On Our Way Home!

Glenn woke us all up at 5am (leaving for Oregon) so we decided to get an early start on the road towards home. This time we are following Craig and Reene; caravanning is a much more entertaining way to travel. Moose was back at our rendezvous point (I didn’t stop screaming “MOOSE” until they stopped driving) – but this time she was really far away. Driving at the crack of dawn was beautiful - with the fog laying low on the meadows, the sun waking up on the mountain peaks, and the hundreds of undisturbed wildlife meandering around their land.

We are spending the last night of our trip in Winnemucca, Nevada (at Winnemucca RV Park). We are back on Pacific Time! Greg didn’t sign up for the 12 hours on the road; however, he just kept following Craig because it shortens our last day of driving tomorrow. Now at least half of the license plates say California – we must not be far! Jeremy is quite excited!!

Day 57 - Grand Tetons

Today was another early morning – I love how determined Christopher is to get up and go fishing! I joined him and Greg so I could search for some more moose, but the moose didn’t get the memo. As I was driving around, I ran into both Glenn, and Craig and Reene (in their cars) – also on the moose chase.

Greg and Christopher were definitely the early birds, and were first to arrive at the dam to fish. Christopher said it was fun, even though he didn’t catch any fish. He likes casting and reeling, and seeing how far out he could get it. Greg caught a trout but was too small to keep.

Kate noticed the Tetons (particularly the snow on them) for the first time today. She hasn’t been out of the campsite much, as she and Ainsley have been very busy building a 4-room rock mansion complete with fireplace (in the nice neighbor's bigger site). We drove to Jenny Lake to take a boat ride across it, and hike up to Inspiration Point. A hungry chipmunk chased Kate around, cutely standing on its haunches, hoping for some handouts. The rain threatened us, and esp. came down back at the campsite (on Greg and his lounge chair).

Day 56 - Grand Tetons

Today we got up at the crack of dawn to go white-water rafting! Along the road, on the way (~6:30 am) we had a huge treat … WE SAW MOOSE !! After spending 3 weeks of previous vacations through Yellowstone and Canada searching endlessly for even a glimpse of one – this is a big deal! We drove way too quickly by a momma and baby hidden in the trees (right next to the road), then another female elegantly crossing the river. The last moose we saw was hightailing it to Jackson along a busy road.

Lewis and Clark rafting company is in the town of Jackson (an hour away), and it included breakfast. Despite an uninviting water temperature of ~50°, we of course had a rockin’ time! (Even Greg, who temporarily gave up his post on the lounge chair.) Craig was completely doused in the lead position. On the right side of the raft, I was hit by wave after wave (making my wetsuit the best-spent money ever!). Each time one crashed onto me, I automatically stopped rowing. I had to toughen up though after our guide said that is exactly what you are not supposed to do. Christopher, Brooke and Jeremy took turns riding “Titanic” style in the front of the raft, and then even jumped into the calmer (still freezing) river a couple times. We all agreed our ride ended too soon, after only a 1 ½ hour adventure.

Day 55 - Grand Tetons

Yesterday Uncle Glenn, Aunt Lisa, Brooke and Ainsley (from Colorado) met up with us for the remainder of the week. We have been doing our typical camping activities – hanging out, playing, laughing, eating and drinking. The “over-40” crowd gets to sleep in Craig’s coach, which means Greg and I are in the rowdy kids’ trailer.

In the afternoon a few of us hiked to some nearby lakes. Every time the Tetons came into view, it took our breath away, and commanded a “wow” comment! Even though the campground is sold out, we are the only ones on the trail – enjoying the incredible, undisturbed scenery. We have seen no wild life at Colter Bay except for birds, squirrels, chipmunks and lots of ravenous mosquitoes.

It is funny to watch Jeremy, a typical middle-schooler, try to argue his one-sided view with six adults. He had tough competition with Aunt Lisa, a middle school teacher! “How do you know a middle-schooler is not telling the truth? If their mouth is moving.” Uncle Craig referred to it as “Jeremy’s world”.

This is much more a vacation pace for Greg (who has found a comfy reclining chair).

Day 54 - Grand Tetons, WY

Day 53 - Grand Tetons, WY

Today we drove a very long 8 ½ hours across the state of Wyoming. “Are we in the middle of nowhere?” Kate asks. We’ve driven through Wyoming many times before, and I’ve never been a fan. However today I’m intrigued by what draws people to live here? The land is desolate and expansive; I’m guessing minutes, hours and days cease to matter here. The closest towns are two hours away with absolutely nothing in between. We drove through a “town” with a population of one!

The end of our drive (along US 26) is where Wyoming gets absolutely gorgeous, and there is no question what draws people here! In my head I’m envisioning all the sights of our trip, and I’m pretty sure the Grand Tetons is the most stunning!

Waiting for us at the end of our long drive is our camping buddies Uncle Craig and Aunt Reene – with cold beer, appetizers, dinner, home-made desserts, and great conversation! (Watch out for Uncle Craig's secrets!) Everyone is happy to see them!

We are spending the next 5 nights inside Grand Tetons National Park at Colter Bay RV Park. We are by no means here for the expensive campground. Our site really couldn’t be smaller, and it is all dirt. At least it has full hook-ups, and is a very short walk to beautiful Jackson Lake and the towering Tetons. And despite all the people here, it is peacefully quiet.

Day 52 - Black Hills, SD

Today’s highlight was fishing – esp. for Kate, who caught a big rainbow trout (her arms are still sore from reeling it in)! She was so, so excited! Until we told her it was dinner (fish chili), then she didn’t want to catch anymore (she doesn’t like fish). She watched daddy clean the guts out of the fish, and for dinner even tried a tiny bite … yuck! Christopher caught a fish too – not quite big enough to keep.

The rest of the day was spent at the waterslide, pool, jump pillow, mini golf, arcade, and bike rentals.

Day 51 - Mt. Rushmore

The remainder of the trip is all repeat (previous vacations) for us. There are tons (and tons) of touristy activities in the Black Hills; however, our pace is slowing down as we don’t feel the need to sight-see anymore.

We did re-visit Mount Rushmore, though, as Kate was two years old last time we were here. The ranger tour was well-done, as usual. We are looking at the prominent faces of these presidents differently this time, feeling much more familiar with them as we were just at the homes of Washington and Jefferson, and the spot where Lincoln died. Though we still know nothing of Roosevelt, who was chosen to represent great presidents here because of his significant contribution to land conservation.

On our way back to the campground we stopped at a lake to check out its fishing access. We drove through primitive, peaceful Horsethief Campground and saw an empty site overlooking the lake. We thought the kids were absorbed in their own car activities, but when I said to Greg, “Let’s move the trailer here,” the kids screamed “No” in unison! They really like our KOA with all of its activities (and are mistakenly assuming all KOAs are amusement park-like). If you are not looking to enjoy the beauty of the Black Hills in your own remote tranquility, and you have kids, then this is a great vacation destination!

Day 50 - Black Hills, SD

Today we had to drive 6 ½ hours across the state of South Dakota. Although we managed to pass up Corn Palace, we couldn’t resist a stop at Wall Drug for some good roadside kitsch – and spent an hour catching up on some souvenir shopping. We were by no means alone … you would not believe the amount of people who stop here!

We are staying 3 nights at the Palmer Gulch KOA, practically right around the corner from Mount Rushmore. The place is a mega-city! There is a lodge, cabins, kamping kabins, and 500 campsites crammed into a meadow. It is a kids' paradise with a waterslide, splash pad, pools, mini golf, playgrounds, even horseback riding and much more! You wouldn’t stay here for tranquility - that is for sure!

Having been here before, we reserved a spot in the outside loop where there is a tiny bit more breathing room. (You pay an additional fee to request a site.) Greg was not at all happy that we were instead given a site with a pad smaller than our trailer, and right across from the bathhouse. It maybe does have a bit more traffic, but I like that the site is huge and backs up to a creek. It might just be one of the best sites here (considering the options)! And if it doesn’t work for us, then we can leave.

Day 49 - Sioux Falls, SD

Yeah! Wi-Fi in the trailer today! (You can check up to 14 days of old posts for newly uploaded pix.) We had a 6 hour drive today, which of course took longer due to gas and lunch stops. In Wisconsin we drove past many cow pastures, and decided they must film the California “happy cow” commercials here. Minnesota was one big windy corn field (not that there’s anything wrong with that, other than the wind). And we saw our first “Wall Drug” sign – only 355 miles away (a reminiscent joke for anyone who travels within a couple states of South Dakota). It was fun to text with brother Craig (aka "best looking and smartest") and Reene, as they are headed towards us, and we are now only a state away from meeting up. I have them to thank for the reason why all the barns we see are red: rust was added to a linseed oil mix to protect the wood. Rust is toxic to mold and moss. When paint 1st came out, red was the cheapest. That explains it!

We are staying overnight at the Sioux Falls Jellystone RV Park. The kids haven’t even made it to the site because they’re distracted by all the “fun for everyone” – which means Greg and I are finally alone! We should have found more of these places along the way! (Being slightly facetious here … it’s our one and only obligatory stay.) The jumping pillow is the bounciest fun yet, esp. after a bloody mary, but maybe not so much after having 3 kids!

Day 48 - Wisconsin Dells, WI

Today started out painfully early. Even though we’re not departing for our next destination, we have to go through the motions because our trailer has an 8am appointment at the service shop. I don’t know if the prognosis is good or bad news. They confirm that the rear axle is bent, but can’t get a new axle for a week. So we put on a new tire (avoiding an imminent blow-out on the old, worn one), and return to town.

The boys’ early morning treat is Wizard Quest, a real-life video game experience! They are not old enough to get in by themselves, so I can tell you first-hand about the game. It is quite cool… a real fantasy come-to-life! Alone in the introductory “library” room, we are given our mission to free the four wizards. But first we must gain points by solving clues, and then we must find the hidden wizards – all within 90-minutes! We run around trying to locate all the clues and solve the riddles; you have to look at and read everything you find because you don’t know where you’ll discover an answer. We have to climb through many different obstacles on hands and knees. We realize that the wizards are all hidden in secret passageways that seem impossible to find! In one secret room we discover several locked doors. We almost give up with the room, assuming the doors are facades. But just as I realize that pulling out a dresser’s drawers make lights go on, another experienced “quester” runs in to align the drawers to make each light stay on (not as easy as it sounds). Our reward is an unlocked secret passageway to a wizard – which I’m quite certain we wouldn’t have found by ourselves. In the end, we did manage to find all the wizards and solve enough riddles, but we ran out of time to officially win. We couldn’t help leaving with an overwhelming feeling of defeat. It was a challenge!! All Jeremy wants to do is go try again – determined to conquer the game.

We move on to our next adventure – a high-speed jet boat ride on the Upper Dells (Captain Ron’s Jet Boat tours). Finally we’ve discovered a boat ride that the kids love! We can’t get enough of the ~300° spin-outs! Christopher sat apart from us up in front (the wet section) but everyone on the boat got plenty wet.

Next, as huge Harry Potter fans, we have to go see The Half-blood Prince (just released today). It’s a great movie, of course!

Lastly the kids stay up to enjoy our final campfire of the trip – no fire pits at our South Dakota and Tetons campgrounds. One of our biggest campfire challenges has been that it is illegal to bring firewood into each state (actually to move it more than 50 miles even within a state), so we have to buy it when we arrive. Then you have to mix in other possible factors like heat, bugs, nightly thunder showers, and/or sheer exhaustion.

Bye bye Dells … that was a worthy detour!

Day 47 - Wisconsin Dells, WI

Today we spent the entire day at the largest waterpark in America – Noah’s Ark. Running around all the slides, wave pools, play areas, bumper boats, “spooky” ride, 4-D Sponge Bob movie, and even miniature golf was almost ideal … except for the cloudy, breezy weather (which kept the crowds away). The best thing about the park is that the kids had too much fun to fight with each other – ahhh, peace, finally!

Greg dropped us off. He managed to escape our fun day by finding something wrong with the trailer: a rear tire is wearing abnormally, indicating a problem with the axle. He stayed long enough to wait with too-short Kate while Jeremy, Chris and I rode the Black Anaconda, “America’s longest watercoaster”. Most of it is covered, and all you can hear is people screaming all the way down! We found out why … many “outside parts” uniquely propel you up the hills so you can fall straight down the pitch black drops, while water falls all over you. Once was enough torture for me, but the boys couldn’t resist a second ride!

We spent a lot of time at the two ocean-like wave pools, also taking breaks to try all the different slides they have. Kate couldn’t get enough of the interactive play areas. We finally pulled ourselves away to have an excellent hamburger dinner, with yummy cheese curds and onion rings, at Monk’s downtown restaurant.

Day 46 - Wisconsin Dells, WI

No excitement today, except for leaving Indiana Dunes. Too many loud, large groups of people gather there – and the open camp area has nothing to absorb the noise. We peeked at the attached beach (of Lake Michigan) which is probably great for locals, but too crowded. Some cars had to park over a mile away!

Our drive to Wisconsin Dells was ~5 hours long. We went a little out of our way to avoid construction, downtown Chicago, and higher tolls. Driving through Illinois was one toll after another – probably 5 total. Fortunately they amounted to less than $15 (for 4 axles). The roads were in good condition, but were beyond bumpy – to the point that Greg said he was going to get sick (it is literally hard to breathe). They must be constructed with small concrete joints which create a consistently bumpy effect – maybe only for trucks towing trailers? Christopher said if we had a cow with us we’d get a hecka good milk shake (and then, a little later, we passed a trailer of cows).

Christopher finally completed his license plate game – it took forever to find North Dakota! We’re suspicious that North Dakotans don’t leave their state. As it is, he found the plate on a big rig.

Wisconsin Dells was exciting to arrive at, seeing one waterslide after another (it’s the U.S. waterslide capital). We drove past Yogi’s Bears campground, with its large waterpark, and I wondered why we aren’t staying there. I must’ve had some sense when I was making reservations because it was crowded with uneven, small sites right along the interstate. Then we arrive at our campground – Stand Rock. We have a large, quiet, grassy site on the edge of the property (and full hookups, which we haven’t had for 11 days). Immediately I’m calculating how to stay here longer! I had to call the next 4 campgrounds, but I got it to work – so now we are staying here for 3 nights. We chickened out of Custer State Park in South Dakota because of how primitive it is. Plus its many tunnel entrances (narrow, low clearances) make it esp. difficult for a trailer to get into. (We still have 3 nights at the KOA right next to Mount Rushmore.)

Day 45 - Chicago, IL

Chicago was added to our itinerary as basically an after-thought. Knowing little about it, I’ve failed to be drawn to it, and only recognized it as a frightfully cold city that delays planes. But that is not the Chicago we experienced today! Quite the opposite, actually, as it was one of the most gorgeous days yet after one of the dreariest Junes on record.

We started early, having to leave the campground at 6:15am to drive an hour, and make it to our boat tour. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the soaring architecture on the Chicago Line cruise! So early on a Sunday morning, we were the only boat on Lake Michigan and then the Chicago River. I have to admit I’ve never given a lot of thought to tall buildings, but our docent attached a story to each one, bringing them to life. Most of his descriptions included the words “world’s biggest” or “world’s first”. Something about this place attracted ambitious people here and gave them much inspiration and determination!

Next we headed to Navy Pier to pick up the bikes I had reserved. I thought bikes would be a truly original way to experience a city! Tired Jeremy didn’t agree, and tried to sabotage the plans. He only saw negatives – that you have to wear a helmet, and cannot text while riding. Despite his mood, it was easy (for all of us) to enjoy the next 4 hours.

We rode along Lake Shore path to Museum Campus, and then backtracked through Grant Park and Millennium Park. The “world’s largest” Buckingham Fountain really is impressive! Millennium Park had a lively festival going on. The distorted reflections in Cloud Gate (the large bean) are childishly captivating. Kate and Christopher had fun splashing around in Crown Fountain, though some of the tower’s projected images – cross-sections of 1,000 Chicagoans – were disproportionately scary. We had a picnic from nearby Giordano’s “famous” stuffed pizza, which hopefully isn’t representative of all Chicago pizza because we prefer our Folsom “Chicago Fire” version better.

Before returning the bikes, we rode along the crowded shores towards Lincoln Park. Kate liked her “tag-along” bike, and repeatedly thanked us for renting them (and kept asking to ride some more)!

Next we enjoyed the theme-park diversions of Navy Pier. We rode the 150 foot-high Ferris wheel, the swing ride, and played mini-golf. I especially liked the pier’s views of the dramatic skyline and lakefront. The kids like the fun-house mirror views.

Lastly Kate and I couldn’t leave Chicago without visiting the flagship American Girl store. I much prefer this store’s sensible layout to those of New York and Los Angeles.

I left with a new opinion of Chicago. We hardly skimmed the top of everything a visit has to offer, and hopefully can return some day.

Day 44 - Indiana Dunes, IN

Nothing good about today. We took 11 hours to do just over 8 hours of driving. Stopping at the Canadian border, and then the U.S. border, took too long (25 min at U.S. border). I guess ignorance (and not getting caught) is bliss because during all that time we sat waiting, Greg never read the sign that said we needed to declare all of our meat! We drove 4 hours through Ontario Canada, through a severe rain storm, and then somewhat diagonally through Michigan - with entirely too many highways closed (aka traffic) in the Detroit area.

We finally arrived at Indiana Dunes State Park. We are here for 2 nights. We have a nice site that backs up to the back/dunes edge of the campground, but both Greg and I commented that it seems loud here. I think the real problem is that NO alcohol is allowed here! How can this many people camp without beer (and still be so loud)?

Day 43 - Niagara Falls, NY

We had little planned for today, so set out to fill our tummies. We started with more sinful donuts, then fell prey to the “home of the original buffalo wing” – Anchor Bar in Buffalo, NY. They were not worth the 45 minute drive. But the beef on a weck was delicious!

We stopped for a while to gaze at the giant whirlpool and rapids just downstream of Niagara Falls. These are some of the most extreme rapids in the world – you don’t see anyone on them! We watched as a jet boat adventure gets frightenly close to them, and the Canadian aerial trolley slowly carries people over the top. A tour group comes through, and we have to restrain Christopher from joining them; he has already found his spot directly next to the guide. We overhear some extra tidbits about the area.

We spend the remainder of the beautiful day at Fort Niagara’s large public pool. There Jeremy has a classic teen moment – when you are so embarrassed you just want to die (or strangle your mom)! After paying the fee to get in, I tried to avoid the bathroom by walking around it. Instead, suddenly we are engulfed in a camp of girls screaming “there are boys in the girl’s bathroom!” (It’s the girls outside staging area, not quite the bathroom.) Jeremy instantly stops focusing on his phone, and turns to escape. I can feel his humiliation and have to hold my hysterics at bay; he is livid! A short while later Greg arrives to head for the same fate, but is fortunate enough to have a friendly bystander catch him just in time. I’m sure it’s a big joke on tourists, and candid cameras are tuned in!

We spent most of the evening with an Outbacker family from Connecticut. At bedtime Kate learns first-hand why dad is constantly telling us to shut the screen door … a thousand various bugs (mostly gnats) have found refuge inside our well-lit trailer! I managed to dispose of the majority of them, and only let 50 sleep in the comforts of the trailer.

Day 42 - Feel the Roar

Today was unforgettable. We experienced the falls from the U.S. side. We started with sinfully delicious donuts from Dicamillo Bakery (and will be going back for more tomorrow). They melted in our mouths!

We parked on Goat Island - the island that separates American Falls from Horseshoe Falls. We are here to do Cave of the Winds, but are lulled the opposite direction to the edge of Horseshoe Falls to feel the roar. The magnitude is mesmerizing, and makes us forget the commercialness of the area! We are close enough to touch it, almost, but wouldn't dare. For a while we watch the perspectively small Maid of the Mist boat go through the rainbow and get absorbed by the mist, which in hindsight is not something Kate should see before doing.

At Cave of the Winds (no longer a cave) we don our required "free" sandals and poncho, and take the elevator down 175 feet to the base of Bridal Veil Falls. A wooden walkway is built literally into the falls. I can hardly describe what it is like to be standing here. Water is gushing all around us, even on the decks and down the stairs. It is shockingly not freezing! We take our time, allowing us to completely absorb the adventure; the sheer power etches it into our memories forever. Slowly we ascend to the Hurricane Deck, which is more water than decking. We have to turn our backs to the tremendous torrents of water. I get video of Christopher and Greg trying to stand beside (practically under) the full force of the falls. Kate doesn't like getting wet.

Next we walk over to Maid of the Mist. It is hard to match the experience we've just had, but this does come close. At the center of the falls, you feel the boat's engines at full throttle, fighting against the power of the current. We sense we are headed straight for the falls, but in actuality we are suspended in one spot - as far as we are going to go. The boat stays there for a long time, letting us take in our surroundings. We can hardly look at the falls through the dousing spray, and we have to hold on for support on the rough water. The roar is deafening.



We spend a quiet, relaxing evening back at the shores of Lake Ontario. We love camping, and this opportunity to experience so many campgrounds across the country.

Day 41 - Niagara Falls, NY

We are back on the road today to drive another 4 hours. Our destination is Four Mile Creek State Park on the U.S. side of Lake Ontario. We are spending the next 3 nights here, 30 minutes from Niagara Falls. There are campgrounds much closer but I’m glad we chose this one. Our spacious site backs up to Lake Ontario (20 feet below us), with a view all the way across to Toronto. Christopher is once again surprised at how large a lake can be (it is 193 miles long and 53 miles wide), and Jeremy is wishing we had a boat to water ski across it.

I’m impressed with how much money New York allocates to its state parks. (Though they might want to spend more money on their roads.) This one is huge too, with acres of manicured lawn. This campground only has electric hook-ups (which is still more than we are used to in CA). Normally when we are camping we don’t maintain a blog, so it wouldn’t matter that there is no wi-fi here. Jeremy particularly dislikes the odd, roving (mostly non-existent) cell service; he spends all of his free time roaming the massive campground looking for the latest bar of service. The laundry machine works and is cheap, though I’d much prefer an indoor one that isn’t surrounded by dirt and bird poop. The bathrooms have showers, and we are crossing our fingers that there is more than one water temperature. Greg and I had a good laugh at the other state campground this morning. We took two completely opposite approaches to the blazing hot shower – he blasted the water out and I barely turned mine on. (I guess it beat freezing cold water, but a mix would have been nice.)

In the evening we head to Niagara Falls on the Canada side. We get to use our passports! But first we have to wait (~30 minutes) in line at the border because they want to know your life story! Where are you from? What brings you all the way here? Are you driving up the East Coast? What do you do for a living that allows you to take so much time off? What will you be doing in Canada? How long will you be staying? What route are you driving on?

Then we all get our first view ever of Niagara Falls. American Falls is very pretty, but I know there’s more to look at. Horseshoe Falls, with its impressive plume of mist, is what takes our breath away. Even 1000 feet away we can feel its spray. I heard that Canada has a better view of the falls, and from our position, I’m suspicious if the U.S. has even half the view? Horseshoe Falls is tucked off to the side, so I’m sure the U.S. can’t see it in its entirety.

When it gets dark, the falls are illuminated with colored spotlights. I can’t decide if it is tacky, or pretty – but it is something to look at either way. And we finally get our fireworks fix, which reassures me … even though we were disappointed to miss the show in NYC, fireworks are fireworks.

Day 40 - Ithaca,NY

We start today out with a scenic drive to Watkins Glen. We take a slight detour through the nearby town of Newfield to see its covered bridge, built in 1853.

Our destination is Watkins Glen State Park – though I’m sure Greg would much prefer a stop at the race track. We hike the beautiful gorge (a 3-mile trail). It’s an idyllic hike – lush greenery, spellbinding waterfalls, interesting rock features, as well as tunnels, bridges and stairs. Just as we finish the last bites of our victory ice cream cones, a rain storm hits.

Jeremy’s inability to smile for pictures is not representative of his demeanor. He is no longer a surly teenager … somewhere early-on in the trip, he stopped fighting the “I want to go home” battle, and has since been surviving, and making the most out of it.

Back at camp, we try to get motivated to go to the “swimming hole”. It is overcast and hardly 70°, and the kids are running around with their friends. But we can’t leave here without visiting the pool – a dammed-up waterfall complete with a high dive! The kids wonder in amazement how others are swimming in the 63° water; they can’t take the plunge. Christopher is the first to muster up courage, and goes off the high dive four times before Jeremy decides to try it. “It takes forever to get down,” they both agree.

In the evening we go to “Wings over Ithaca” to try some local eats. It is up the hill near Cornell University. On our way, we pass a new fawn (Bambi) dying on the road. Fortunately only Greg and I see the gut-wrenching sight. There are many dead deer on the road in mid-state NY, and we even had to dodge some bounding across the road.

It’s time for bed, and we have to tear Kate away from her friend. She is hysterically exhausted, and devastated that she won’t see her again.

Day 39 - Ithaca, NY

Today is a turning point …starting our 3-week journey west towards home (and back to our longer driving days). We drive for 4 hours on a bumpy interstate to Ithaca.

We are spending the next two nights at Robert H. Treman State Park. I found this campground after dedicated searching, as it was not listed in rvparkreviews.com, and there was little information on it. Our gamble paid off – it is a hidden treasure! It is only supposed to have 15 amps to plug into, but our box has a 30 amp outlet too. We’re supposed to share the water spigot with several neighboring sites, but instead we all v-off of it. The site is large, grassy and level. Hardly seven sites in the spacious loop border a playground/grass area the size of a football field. Our kids spend the rest of the day and evening running around – finally socializing with other kids their age.

Day 38 - Crowning Moments

Yesterday, for the first time in 8 years, the crown of the Statue of Liberty opened to the public (indefinitely closed since 9-11). Only 240 people are allowed up. Today we get to be one of those people!

We arrive to Liberty Island from the empty New Jersey side. Even though only a small portion of tickets are allocated to get inside the statue’s pedestal, and it is still early in the morning, there is already a Disney-size line to get in. The kids and I bypass that line (leaving Grandma and Greg behind in it), and are escorted straight through security. We are allowed to bring absolutely nothing except a camera (not even cell phones or wallets). We laugh at each other as our hair flies up in the “air puffer” security machines. We are last in a group of 10 people who are allowed to climb, so by the time we reach the crown, we have it completely to ourselves! Definitely a different experience than the “olden days” when you could wait for 5 hours only to be briefly pushed through the crown, allowed to hesitate for a 1-second view. We hang out for a while, appreciating the moment.

We stop at Ellis Island long enough to take a rubbing of my mom’s family name – even though when they came from Germany, they didn’t enter through the island, as they were sponsored.

Next Greg gets to drive through the Holland Tunnel to Manhattan. Learning to drive in L.A. barely prepares you for the chaos on the streets. As it turns out, cars don’t pay any attention to red lights either, if any traffic laws at all. Their favorite stunt seems to be to cram themselves into intersections as the light turns red. Regardless, we arrive safely to my mom’s childhood home in Queens. The kids are visiting for their first time. My Oma still lives there. After a while, mom tells me it is time to leave – though I feel like I can stay holding Oma’s hand, listening to her ageless voice forever. She is 94 years old. There is a good chance I’m hugging her for the last time. Thank you hun, and mom, because without you I wouldn’t have this memory.

Day 37 - Manhattan, NY

Happy 4th of July!

It is not quite 7am and I am kicking back in a lawn chair in the middle of the street in Time Square. Since Memorial Day, portions of Broadway have been closed to traffic and scattered with lawn chairs. Very cool! I am absolutely loving the pulse of New York City! A guy sits down next to me and announces that he is Elvis. He tells me that he will fill his backpack with tips today, and then have to somehow safely ride his bike through Brooklyn with all that cash (since the banks are closed). My next hour is filled with one fascinating “New York” conversation after another! The funniest is the flamboyant public safety officer reminding the “sleeping” 85-year old man near me to keep the brown chairs segregated from the green ones. A little later I get my keepsake photo of the Naked Cowboy (who was slightly more impressive last time I saw him – “naked” in the freezing snow).

Since we’re all exhausted, instead of sightseeing, we stumble through the subway to get back to the trailer for a quiet day.

We fail miserably to watch a fabulous Macys fireworks show over the Hudson River. Originally the plan had been to watch them launched here at Liberty Park. However the lady who runs the RV park said we wouldn’t be able to see them from here, and gave us a map of where to go. She was dead wrong. We were surrounded with thousands of (disappointed) people and a postcard view of the city – but our view of the fireworks that went off on both sides of us (one being back at the trailer) was completely blocked by buildings. They sure did sound impressive though.

Day 36 - Manhattan, NY

The morning starts early (before 6am) for the boys as we sneak out to see Rob Thomas (from Matchbox Twenty) perform at the Today Show's summer concert series. We only have to walk 2 blocks to the studio at Rockefeller Center, but the line to get into the tiny recording area is already wrapped around a couple of blocks. We spent the next 3 hours squished like sardines with a view of only the head in front of us. I don't care, and Jeremy doesn't seem to mind - but I feel bad because adventurous Christopher thought we were going to be doing something fun. As for the "concert", he performed about 3 songs ("Lonely No More" he repeated several times). Kate said she saw us on TV ... Did you?

Finally the concert is over and Christopher bursts through the doors of the Nintendo World store just as they unlock them. They each buy a new DS game, and get a handful of free stylus pens.

Kate, Grandma and Daddy join us and we hit the American Girl store. You’re not going to believe this, but Jeremy said he could spend the day there – playing on the 4 floors of escalators. Of course Kate is the real reason we are there, and she gets to leave with their newest (historic) doll, Rebecca. She loves her new baby!

Next we walk 1 ½ miles (down 5th Avenue) to the Met. Christopher gets to go on the Pharaoh tour (with Grandma) while the rest of us wander aimlessly around looking at misc. artifacts. Jeremy and I laugh at all the really, really old statues that are missing heads, arms, and other unmentionable body parts (that Kate is quick to notice).

We get our token vendor hot dog, and spend the rest of the afternoon meandering through Central Park. It is a beautiful, relaxing day to spend enjoying the massive, famous park. All of my visits have mostly been in the winter snow, so I’m esp. enjoying the city’s summer feel. The boys sail a model sailboat in the lake, Greg’s sunglasses fall into the slimy lake (just out of reach), and Kate rides the super-fast carousel. We spend quite a while at its largest playground, Heckscher Playground.









After a delicious dinner at a church converted into a pizzeria (John’s), we walk through Times Square to Macys, and Jeremy finally gets his shopping fix (buying a new pair of jeans). We stare at the festive red-white-and blue Empire State Building, and walk back through Bryant Park. We’ve put some miles on our shoes today!