Well, here we are. 2021. A pandemic. Stuck in Japan since 2019. My mother passed away after a long illness, and since travel was not permitted, I could not see her in her last months or send her off at the funeral. (I attended the funeral via Zoom. Thank god for technology.)

Vaccines came to fruition earlier this year, and people in the USA are now venturing out. People in Japan got access to the vaccine starting in June, and I received my first vax the other day. Now, I can see a light at the end of this tunnel

The purpose of this private blog is to collect ideas and tips for a trip that I have always wanted to take with my dad and kids. Now that the kids are 14 and 12, it seems like a perfect time. Next summer they will be 15 and 13. Dad has traveled these roads several times, so he will lend his experience. But more than that, I think it will be a good opportunity to bond - the four of us.

Here is the basic plan:

August 2022

Wisconsin to Idaho

Idaho to Colorado

Colorado to Missouri

Missouri to Wisconsin

Shannon and Jill would like for us to stop on our way back, so that is CO and MO in this plan. Michele's best friend lives in Idaho, so if Michele gets involved with this trip, we may get to see Janna. (Michele doesn't want to drive and would prefer a train trip. Dad wants to drive, and so do I. Perhaps she can fly out to meet us for part of the trip.)

I have joined three FB groups in order to get tips/ideas and to ask advice:

USA Road Trips Share Your Adventures

Yellow, Glacier, and Montana Trip Planning

USA Road Trips, Photos & Adventures

I also downloaded an app called Roadtrippers that helps you plan out your trip. It is owned by Rand & McNally. Speaking of which, Dad said the best thing is to buy a Rand & McNally state map book. I have an old one but will order a new one as soon as I can.

Finally, some people say to plan and book way ahead of time, while others say to play it by ear! What the... I guess I am more of a planning type.

I will be exploring the following topics:

Main routes

Sightseeing places

National parks (rules, reservations, tips, etc.)

Length of time / budget

Places to stay (KOA Cabins, Hotels, etc.)

Car rentals

Tips from FB Groups

Dad seems excited for this trip, and it is something we can all look forward to. It also serves to motivate us to stay or get healthy!