For years, I fantasized about driving cross country, NJ to California. The southern route, the northern route. I followed the blogs of the NY Times writer, Matt Gross, as he drove east to west, often to lesser known spots. It seemed like such a grand adventure. I had never gone cross-country in my 20's, but I could do it now that my kids were grown. Then, the negative thoughts would surface: sitting for endless hours; the cost; safety issues; the wear and tear on my car; maybe too much time alone.
In April, I traveled to Colorado with a friend. We went to Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder. I fell in love with Boulder, which is no surprise to anyone who knows me. I knew I wanted to return for an extended time. When I got home, I did some research, weighed out the cost and convenience of flying vs. driving. I talked with family and friends. I checked with my mechanic. Finally, I would take the drive, though ending in Colorado, not California. Good enough!
Stop #1- Chicago to spend the weekend with my daughter. Taste of Chicago and the beach (Lake Michigan). The drive took a bit longer than I thought it would, but overall smooth going. NJ- Pennsylvania- Ohio- Indiana- Illinois. Route 80 W. all the Chicago, then route 90 W. into the city. It's great to be here, for endless reasons.
