We are about a month into the trip and it truly has been a wonderful experience -- but before you go jump in your car and start caravanning behind us, I thought I'd mention some of the obstacles we've faced.
First of all, we have been in each other's company almost constantly throughout the trip. The vast landscapes up north keep us together as we are either in the car or on a hike. We are both pretty stubborn (I have Priscilla's permission to say that about her) so we often butt heads. For some reason it usually involves breaking down the tent. I think it will be easier to find some time to ourselves once we reach the Pacific Coast. Until then I always keep some chocolate close by to feed to Priscilla and she makes sure I get enough sleep.
Another obstacle has been the weather. After experiencing 100 degree days in The Badlands at the end of the first week, we ran into freezing temperatures in Yellowstone and a good amount of ran through Canada. We want to tent camp as much as possible not only for the experience but also to save money. However, it's difficult to set up camp and cook in the rain so we've spent some nights in hotels. It's also nice to take a shower without sandals on!
Food has also become an adventure. We've done a great job preparing some interesting meals but there are plenty of days when we have oatmeal for breakfast, peanut butter and jelly for lunch, and something with rice for dinner. Suggestions/donations/food care packages welcome.
Finally, there is the car. Gas has really added up, especially in Canada and Alaska. It's crazy that Alaska, with all the oil the oil companies are pumping through the pipeline, has gas prices over $3 a gallon. As Priscilla has been saying, it's rather insulting to the people of Alaska. We also have a tire pressure warning light that won't turn off. It started on the road construction throughout Yellowstone, then went off on the smooth roads around Calgary before lighting up again on the bumps on the Alaska Highway. We constantly monitor the tire pressure and hope it goes off again soon. Since we rented the car from Hertz, it's nice that they cover the maintenance (including having the car checked out to make sure the warning light wasn't anything serious).
That's about it. We have settled into a decent routine and are learning a lot about ourselves and each other. I think these above points are the nuances that make the trip interesting and help us grow individually and in our relationship. Now back to your regularly scheduled program.
-Jack
1 comments:
Sounds like you are getting the full experience of long distance traveling over the open roads. Suggestions for food: Have you guys tried frying some eggs over the open fire? Buying some kidney beans and dry soups you could even create a pot of chili. We could send you a care package if you find yourselves at an actual address for a few days. The Pacific Coast should be a bit different for you when you get there probably even a bit warmer. Keep enjoying the trip!
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