Tuesday, July 25, 2006

The Big Move - part 3



I can tell I'm in the west, when the landscape changes from farmland to grazing land. The trees are short, the green grass turns to sage brush, and the vistas become truly grand. The air changes too, I no longer need the air conditioner to fight the summer humidity. The air is drier, and clearer. The veil of humidity is gone, and I feel I can see so much further. The pets notice the change also, and are eager to sniff this new smell.


I spent the night at a rest stop almost on the Okalahoma/Texas border and awake to a surprise. I find the whole parking area filled to capacity with 18 wheelers. My big truck and trailer looks dwarfed, in amongst all those titans. I feel like I am a part of some large wagon train, bedded down for the night. With a laugh, I hurry to get my camera. Feeling an eager anticipation for the coming day, I can't wait to get back on the road.


The scenery is gorgeous and the weather is perfect. I just might make it to Colorado before night fall.

Thursday, July 06, 2006

The Big Move - part 2


Driving from sun up to sun down and sleeping in my truck at rest stops, was a whole new experience. Truthfully, it wasn't that bad. I met some nice people, learned that there are a lot of women driving 18 wheelers, and found endless photographic opportunities. I found that I could steer the truck with one hand and shoot pictures with the other. The pets and the radio kept me company, and not once did I feel uneasy traveling alone.


The second day I traveled from the Florida panhandle to just outside of Little Rock, Arkansas. Right through the Bible Belt. Churches everywhere and not a bar to be seen. The land is covered with crops, and cat fish farms. The people are friendly and happy to chat with a stranger. Very little traffic and lots of scenery. I enjoyed the drive that day.


I spent that night at a rest stop, parked next to a nice retired couple on their way to Alaska. They were concerned about me being alone, and promised to keep an eye on me. I knew God was keeping me safe, and I slept soundly that night.