Day 47-- Idaho to Montana

This afternoon we ran some errands- had lunch, got gas, drove through the car wash, picked up juice and snacks at the store, etc. Then we FINALLY got on the road around 2pm.

We stopped a few times. Once was at this mission in Idaho. It was REALLY cool. I've seen old missions on the side of the road a few times on the trip, but every time we stopped- they were closed. This time it was open. I had no idea what to expect. As I opened the heavy, wooden doors this wave of energy came over me. The mission is the oldest building in the state and built in 1889 (thanks to Michael who remembered the year). There was just 1 row of seats in the front. But, the alter was totally decorated. I look forward to posting the photos. It was just really cool and I'm glad we stopped.

The mission was also next to this river. Just like one would imagine, with the mountains in the background. Again, I just wanted to pull out a fishing pole and spend the day. Of course we don't have any fishing poles and Michael would last about 5 minutes. But, that's still what I wanted to do.

As we drove south in Montana the scenery got better and better, IMO. We ended up in a town called Deer Valley right around sunset. In the west were the Bitterroot mountains and the sunset seemed to never end. Of course Hwy 90 runs along a river, so I was in my glory.

There was very little traffic and the speed limit was 75 most of the way. Of course I go about 60 on the curves and 65-70 when it's straight. I just don't know how people do it. My ears also kept popping all day- which kinda led to a headache. The liquid in my ears was really bothering me. I think the mountain driving would be a lot easier if I didn't have my ear problems. But, at least I'm not in any pain. As long as I drink some coffee in the morning, the migraines don't pop up later in the day.

It's weird, but as soon as we started heading east, I began to get tired of driving. I have to force myself to keep going sometimes. It's like when you take a trip and the ride there is a lot more exciting. I've never been to this area of the US and I'm excited about Yellowstone tomorrow. But, once I get to Park Rapids, MN I won't be anywhere new anymore. Does that make sense? A few years ago I drove from MN to NY and I also drove from Chicago to NY.

I don't know why being somewhere new is so important. I guess because there are a lot of things I can't experience driving alone with Michael. I can't go horseback riding, river rafting... can't go to a casino, etc. Michael won't sit through a baseball game or a museum that isn't for children. We can't go to a non-child movie (I first wrote "adult movie" but then realized that might be misleading).

We have done some cool things- like the whale watch boat trip. But, between driving so much, packing and unpacking, carrying things back and forth, finding safe hotels, keeping Michael away from food that makes him sick, making sure we have everything we need at every moment- I have so much on my mind. I think how different the trip would be if we had another adult with us, helping. But, then I think about how then I'd have to worry about THAT person's wants and needs and attitude. Ok. We're better off just the two of us :)

I'm not complaining- the trip is going great. I'm just trying to recharge my batteries in the final stretch. I hope there is a bus tour at Yellowstone. That way I can be with a group and just enjoy the scenery (and not have to worry about driving).

Oh, one of the things I'm excited about- Michael's birthday is August 27th and we'll be staying with my cousins in PA again (they were the first stop). We're also going to Sesame Place and meeting our friends there. So, it should be a nice celebration and fun way to end the trip.

We really are lucky to be able to go on this trip and share the experience. Michael is already talking about next summer's trip. :)