Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018 The State of Washington

Today is another drive day, but in less time that the previous two days.  We left Coeur d'Alene, Idaho and headed to Cougar, Washington, just south of Mt. St. Helens.  Shorter drive - only 7 hours this time.

I was out there back in 2012 and saw the beauty of this state on the western side (from Seattle to Leavenworth to LaConnor).  But this was going to be a new experience for John and I traveling this state from east to west - and oh boy does it seem like two very different worlds.  We didn't have any stops planned except to pull over and stretch, get gas, or take care of Mother Nature's business. 

Before we left Coeur d'Alene, we had to stop at the grocery store to pick up a few essentials, like water, apples, and a bag to hold our dry goods that we brought with because the paper bag we had everything in split right down the side during one of our transfers between vehicles back on our first day out.  The Duluth Trading Company's paper bag did not hold up.  So we had to resort to buying a bag.  Of course being so close to Washington, the only type of bags at the store were Seahawks bags.  Now being Packer fans, we really did not want to stoop to buy something against our own favorite team, but we needed it and since it was a recycled bag, it wasn't going to rip.  So, we bought one - BUT - it was a picture of Russell Wilson only - not of the logo or of the team or any other player.  The only reason we picked Russell Wilson was because he played for the Badgers in college.  :)  So we figured it was okay to do.  And of course, since John was wearing his favorite Packer hat (from his buddy Craig), the ladies at the checkout counter had to make comments about us buying the bag.  Its all good banter of course! 

On our way finally. 

We were very impressed with the beauty of this state simply because of the diversity between the eastern side and the western side - of course, the Olympic mountains being on the western side.  It was all beautiful!  One cannot grasp the true beauty through pictures, but they sure give a great shot.

Eastern Washington

Western Washington

Finally reaching our destination at Lone Fir Resort in Cougar, Washington.  We were so surprised when we stepped into our room to find our friends surprised us with a gift, which is so fitting considering we are in Sasquatch territory and one of John's favorite past times to study.  Thank you Michael and Lauri for the warm greetings to your beautiful state!  :)

Sat., Sept. 15, 2018 Highway, Hills, and Mountain Peaks

Today was a big drive day for us.  Left Gillette,  WY around 7:30.  Had a terrific room at the Candlewood Suites.  Each room is a suite with everything one could need if staying for a while.  And for only $86!!  The bed was soooo comfy and shower was perfect for sore muscles.

This is all new for us in driving this part of our  beautiful America.  Deer and the Antelope truly do play on the range.

John wanted me to let everyone know that we found a creek that was actually named after me:

Even though our journey today was going to be an 11 hour drive to the next hotel,  we planned a stop to check out the historical Little Bighorn Battlefield.  So happy we did! 

We took a walk among the markers of fallen soldiers of the 7th Calvary lead by Lt. Col. George Custer. Learned more in depth of the fight the Lakota nation had before them to keep their way of life lead by Sitting Bull...Americans against Americans...another civil war less than a decade after the war between the states. 

We heard the details of the battle by a retired combat soldier from Vietnam.  He made it so one could visualize the battle before our eyes as he referred to certain areas surrounding the park.  Both of us were grateful we stopped to listen.

That was our only touristy event today. We had a ghost town on our agenda to see around Whitehall,  MT,  but we decided we needed to stay on the road since we would be pulling into our next overnight stayed after 9 pm if we didnt stop.  We'll hit that next time we come out.

Took a little detour after pulling off to get gas.  Never saw one of these before in person.  It was operating too. 

The Rockies are breathtaking!!  Pictures can never do these majestic peaks justice.

No car troubles and having a great time driving the speed limit....80mph!  :) 

We finally made to our hotel in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.  740 miles and 11 hours in one day - we are for certain tuckered out.  

Tomorrow will be less on the road and more "friendly"  :)