Joe's Roadtrip

Location: Palmer, AK

After sleeping in a bit, I had remembered there were a few items on the list that I had to take care of today.  First thing, I needed an oil change, and second, I wanted to buy some postcards.  Definitely not a hectic day by any means, but one that fit in nicely with the soreness that I experienced after yesterday’s hike.  My legs and arms were definitely feeling it,  especially my wrists from all the hanging on tree limbs when I was slipping on muddy downhill paths.

I took care of the oil change at a nearby Midas.  This is probably one of the last few oil changes I’ll be getting before this trip is over, and the mini-inspection that comes part of the oil change showed no issues with the car.  Not that I was expecting any, but after close to 18,000 miles driven thus far, I need to be prepared for regular issues that may come up after a year’s+ worth of driving.

I then hit up a local gift shop, then came home to walk Susan’s dog, Vegas.  I haven’t had the chance to walk a dog since I left Georgia, so it brought back some good memories of Sally and Marba.  Vegas is especially well-behaved and friendly; in fact, the dog insisted on sleeping next to me the prior night.  Hasn’t barked at me once, yet.

Vegas the dog

I spent the remainder of the evening laying low and relaxing on the couch.  Watched a couple movies (Clint Eastwood’s Gran Torino is a great film, by the way) and then got to bed early.

The plan for Sunday is to hit the road by early afternoon, and I’ll be making my way gradually East towards the Alaska/Canada border.  It’s a six hour drive from here, per GoogleMaps, but I’ll be making some stops along the way, so it’s up in the air even if I’ll make it to the border tonight.  In any case, the journey in Alaska has come to its end…the long journey home soon begins.

Thanks very much to Susan who offered me the use of her awesome home.  I had such a great stay hanging with Vegas, and am very grateful for a comfortable place to relax and sleep.

And big props to my brother Mike – it was through his connections I’ve had three places to stay – two friends in Alaska, and one in Vancouver.  Thanks Mike.

joe