Test run

We just got back from a trip to Casper, Wyoming to catch up with our good friend Jamie before we depart. We had a great time hanging out with Jamie and her precious Kaleb - my how he's grown!

As well as visiting Jamie and WINDY Wyoming, it was good to have a mini road trip. Much was learned.  What to and what not to do, when embarking on a 5 week road trip. 

First on the agenda, spill proof cups! A whole McDonald's cup of Sprite was spilled within the first 30 minutes of leaving Denver! A quick pit stop to dry off the spillage - fortunately leather seats - and lesson two learned. Ensure towels are easily accessible!!
As it turns out a USB hub from the computer does not work in a car cigarette lighter USB adapter. With 2 IPhones, Kindle and IPad this may be an issue. On an upswing though the 2 DVD players, Nintendo DS and laptop computer would all simultaneously operate from the cigarette lighter (We have 2 outlets in the car and a 1-to-4 adapter). Trash on an extended road trip will be an issue. Make sure to throw out whatever you can at EVERY pit stop would be the suggestion.
The car performed well. 750 miles with cruise control stuck just above 80, and an average of 22 mpg. not bad for a 3L, V6. Just glad gas isn't too much above $3 gallon - yet. Hopefully not battling 40mph winds will help too - bloody hell it can be windy up there.
8 movies for 2 kids was not enough. Although we are planning on taking more with us anyway on the full excursion. Ryan did enjoy his "How the Earth was made" DVD from the History channel. Certainly opened his eyes to the power of evolution and the unlikeliness of creationism. Can't wait till we vacate this religious hotbed location.
We are going to have to evaluate our camping arrangements, more specifically some comfortable camping chairs so we can unwind in semi comfort after a long days driving, however this may be at the cost of leaving them stateside. Although the bigger issue may be space in the car for "comfy" chairs. We may have to get some exterior storage for the car,perhaps one of those racks that attaches to the tow hitch - which would mean installing a tow hitch.

All in all a good trip, with the exception of the breakfast fiasco at the hotel this morning, maybe Mayzie will fill you in on that later! We did also start creating a list of stuff, with descriptions, to sell on Craigslist on the way home. just got to do it now.

Was great to see an old friend and hopefully we can catch up again one day in the future.

Cliff