Park the car and head for home. Bittersweet

I made it back to Roanoke, Virginia where I will park my car and head for home via the air. I already miss the road- seeing new places, rocking out to tunes, the breeze in my hair (and bugs typically), hours of nothing to do but enjoy my own company- seeing as though I really won't drive again like that in a long time, if ever. I've been able to spend a little more time with both my grandma and great aunt which has been very important to me. And attempting to pack everything that's been in my car for the last 73 days into one bag under 50 pounds and one carry-on is literally impossible. We'll see how much I leave behind.
Thank you to everyone who's let me sleep on your couch, in your guestroom, or in your bed- I've appreciated all of your help and support. I really wouldn't have had a trip without you. And if anyone ever takes a cross-country road trip, let me know cause I know of some awesome places, and I'd love to tag along for a bit as well.
NOW- off to Africa

oh, I think it's baseball-thirty!

So, leaving Jersey with the top down (I have to!) I made the few hour drive to Baltimore, got some more sun, and ended up setting off the alarm to the house I was staying at. Unlocked the door and remembered I didn't have the code. To top it off I don't get cell phone service in Baltimore (just my luck) so I couldn't make the call to Jim or Ruth to get the code. Instead I ran up and down the street, eventually jumping in front of a biker and demanding his phone, while we stood listening to the sirens, waiting for the cops to show up. They didn't thankfully. Then it was baseball time! Jim and I walked over, got t-shirts (it was t-shirt Tuesday!), beer, bar-b-q, and hotdogs, and watched a pretty good game against the Rays. Totally awesome day! Even if there were a few rocky moments.

Workin my way back home

From Boston I went north to Maine- nothing in particular to see but another state and to get a lobster roll, which was fantastic. I came back through New Hampshire, then Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey- I new record! Six states in one day. So, once I got back to New Jersey with Bill and Bev we had dinner with Carrie and caught up on everything from New York and Boston. Plus I got a killer suntan from driving for eight hours with the top down- just what I need before going back to Alaska.
This morning I went to Margot's (Carrie's daughter) first grade class as show-and-tell. We talked a little about Alaska, my 70 days on the road across the states, and my up-coming trip to Africa (when I put it all together like that, it does sound somewhat impressive). I think they liked it- plus it was a break from normal school, always a plus. Now I'm headed to Baltimore for an O's game. And more sunshine!!!

Another LONG weekend!

Thursday night in Jersey was awesome- I had dinner with Bill and Bev and a few of their friends visiting. We took the boat out and had drinks on the water- it was beautiful! The weather cleared up perfectly and we watched the sun go down on the boat. I can't believe I didn't have my camera! Friday I came up to Boston. I stopped in Newport, Rhode Island, mostly cause I wanted to stop in another state, and had some amazing clam chowder. Once in Boston, I met up with Mary Nell, a friend of Christy's. We started off running and we've had such a blast. Friday we went to a few different bars in Boston, meeting up with friends and seeing the city. Saturday we went to the best sandwich shop ever, Dave's pasta, and lounged in the sun listening to music. We hung out with her friend Alissa At night we stayed in Cambridge and went to a few other bars. Today, Sunday, Mary Nell gave me a guided driving tour of Boston- very informative. Castle Island was where we had our picnic lunch and watched planes land across the water (poetic right?). This evening has been relatively calm, with a sushi dinner and a movie. Tomorrow I'm back to Jersey- I'm definitely going to miss Boston but I know I'll be back.

New York City!

What a couple of days in NYC!!! Let me just say now I want to move there at some point. So, when I first got in I met up with Katy, a friend from college, and she took me to her apartment in Brooklyn. We went out for dinner and a beer, and ended up meeting the brewer of this amazing IPA. He bought us a few rounds, and when we went home to take a nap, ended up sleeping 3 hours without moving. Katy still had her galoshes on. So, back to bed. In the morning, Tuesday, we went into the city and just walked around and went sightseeing. It was raining, so we tried to stay inside as much as we could. We went to the Met museum or art, which as amazing, and through central park. Katy went off the work and I met up with Jordan, a friend I haven't seen in about 7 years! We had drinks and dinner in Union square and tried to catch up. Then it was to a bar uptown that had 90's hip hop music. I met Taji, another friend from college, and Katy. All of us had such a great time!
Wednesday took me a bit to get going (thanks to an open bar the night before). But it wasn't raining. I went to see Wicked- it was phenomenal!!! The story, the voices, the extravagance- it was perfect. From there I went back to Time Square and people watched. Then to a comedy club- the one where Jerry Seinfeld did his clips at the beginning of each show. Hilarious! I needed a good laugh at that point too. When I got out it was down-pouring but the walk home was enjoyable anyway.
This morning Katy and I got breakfast and coffee at a cute place by her apartment and I found my way back to Time Square to people watch and catch the train back to New Jersey. What a couple of days! I can see how people fall in love with New York- with so much to do, I could have easily stayed another few weeks and not gotten bored. Now I just have a strong desire to go back the next chance I get.

Family visit

Yesterday, Sunday, I drove from Baltimore to Newark, Delaware, in the pouring rain of course, and went to the Deer Park, a bar my dad and his friends went to all through their time in college. It's quite a nice place now, although they all said it used to be quite a dive bar. From there I came up to the Jersey shore, where much of my extended family lives. It was such a fabulous night with everyone! I was able to catch up with Carrie, Ainsley and Stuart (my dad's cousins), Bill and Bev (my dad's aunt and uncle) Rick, and all five of the kids that came along. I can't believe it's been eight years since I've been here- it really feels like last week. I missed out on seeing a few of the family, so when I get back from New York we decided to get together again. But for now, I'm parking my car and taking the train into the city for a few days. Should be exciting!!

Baltimore

Friday night in Baltimore- definitely started out my visit here right. I met up with Ruth and Jim, two of my dad's friends from college, and right off the bat we went to a market and got fresh crab and beer for appetizers. They were small crabs, the kind you take a hammer to to open. Delicious. Then it was to dinner and to their favorite bar, Porters, down the street. When we got back I went up to the porch on the roof- gorgeous view. So many of the apartments and town houses here in Baltimore have these roof tops- from here I can see the harbor and all of downtown. It has such a great feel- big city yet calm and historic. I'm really thinking this has become one of my favorite towns.

This morning we woke up, took a small tour around the townhouse we're staying in, and then to see the kinetic sculture race. The contraptions were awesome!! Mostly bikes that could ture into boat to float across the harbor. I think we walked about 10 miles around the harbor on the water, which was a beautiful walk, but we ended up missing the launching of the boats- they'd all continued on to the next obsticle of the day. So, we went to Austin Grill for some cinco de mayo celebration with a band. Then it was to Max's on Broadway to drink a beer and watch the Orioles game. Then it was DuClaw Brewing Co. for good local beer. The walk home didn't seem quite as long, and to our suprise we ran into the last few contraptions from the race- the tail end of the bunch. But it was fun to see them cross the finish line. Now it's nap time. Tonight will be another adventure, no question, and being with the two I'm with I know I'll need my energy to keep up.

The VA

Tuesday was quite an adventure, all happening before 11am. I took to the road, but only 2 miles down the road my car was giving me problems. I pulled over to get gas, popped the hood, and stood there for a minute. I guess I looked pretty lost, so a guy came up and asked if I needed help with anything. Cliff-note version, the man he was with called a mechanic friend of his who said he could help. We drove out there and the guy looked at my car. I have to say, he was a character- super friendly, so was his mechanic son, but both very eclectic. They gave me 3 gallons of water and said to watch my temp gauge and sent me on my way- nothing they could do for me in an hour. So, on the road again, and no problems for the next 500 miles- made it to my grandma's house completely fine.
I've had such a great time here with her- her cooking is amazing, as usual, her house is familiar, and we have so much fun together. I've also been able to get back running, raking leaves, and we got my car actually fixed. Lola is now ready for the road.
Tonight I caught up with a great friend from college, Martha, who lives here. We had pizza and beer (what we're good at) at Cici's. Then back to her house to catch up with her parents. What a fabulous night! Just what I needed. Now, in the morning, I'm off for Baltimore.

Downtown Nashville

Today started early with a stroll through Gaylord Opryland. I really think it'd be possible to spend an entire day there roaming around! There are several different wings, each with several hundred if not a thousand rooms. As part of the convention center, there were four different areas, each that was like an enclosed garden. It was so calming to be in each one of these, with the steams and waterfalls, the beautiful plants and flowers, and the enclosed yet spacious feel. We then went into downtown Nashville and wondered around looking into different bars and clubs. We went to a brewery for lunch, and then we had a beer at Tootsies, the place to be in Nashville. A complete dive bar that holds so much history. We went into Ryman auditorium, which is the former Grand Ole Opry, and I learned about all the history that has been made there.
We picked up Ruth, a friend of my dad and Chip, and went to Wildhorse saloon- there were horses scattered all over that place!
I even tried to have a beer with one of them. Then to Legends for another beer, and to another brewery for dinner. I was able to soak up (and drink up) so much of what Nashville has to offer but I know there is so so much more. In Legends we heard an unbelievably good band, and I can only begin to guess how many more great artists frequent this place. I can't wait to come back and spend more time wondering.

Music City USA

Today has been jam packed!! This morning Chip cooked sausage he made and french toast baked with bananas- amazing! I mention these because I intend on recreating them when I get home and I don't want to forget how great they were. So, then we hit the road for the Jack Daniel's distillery. The tour was great and the tour guide was hilarious. He picked on me a few different times- apparently I'm easy to poke fun at. We saw the whole process and learned about the history and all the different kinds, and we even got to taste a bit, even being a Sunday. The town of the Lynchburg is so cute, and believe it or not in a dry county. Strange that they can make whiskey there but not consume it... Then we went to a Russel Stover candy shop and got our chocolate fix. I think mine was way overdue. Then it was to wine tasting at Beans Creek. The wine was fabulous and the winery was small but very cute. All in all, it's been a full day of tasting and tours but I couldn't be happier. We're currently cooking more sausage that Chip has made and opening more wine from his collection. How can I not love this place?!?

Asheville to Nashville

Friday in Asheville was awesome! Lots more cornhole, which I actually got better at, a few beers on a hot day, and a familiar face from ATL. Alex came up for the weekend to see me and Ellese so that was a great surprise. Once she got in we went for pizza and beer at the Brewery. It definitely reminded me of Moose's Tooth from back home- great pizza and very good beer. The night we went downtown to a few different bars- played a little darts and had our own little dance party both at one bar and once we got home. I had such a good time! Saturday morning we went for brunch at Over Easy downtown. Like everywhere else in Asheville, to menu was primarily vegan with all organic foods and the option of meat. I ate bacon. Mmmmmmm
The drive to Nashville was probably the most beautiful drive I've taken. The whole way to was green and hilly with clean, fresh air (no more dairy farms thankfully). I got in about dinner time and met up with Chip, a friend of my dad's since they were 18. We had a few different kinds of wine (which he makes and is amazing) and got to catch up on all the years and new things that have happened.

Asheville

Ellese and I have had an awesome time so far. She has awesome friends that make me feel so comfortable. The weather has been clear and sunny since I got here and it's perfect. I've played a few games of cornhole, and even though I'm pretty bad Ellese's friends are being very patient.
Yesterday we went on a hike up to Max Patch- it was a pretty short hike but the view was incredible. We could see a 360 degree view of rolling mountains after rolling mountains. And the bar we went to last night had a great band playing- maybe too much tequila but it was a fun time.
Asheville is such a fun little town. It's a very green place, eco friendly, and hippy. Everyone is friendly and walks to the beat of their own drum. Very cool place.

Hello from Asheville

This weekend was pretty nuts, and so much fun. I had a sushi date with Kate and her bf James, watched some Madagascar (but of course!), made it to the Sweetwater 420 Festival with Alex and Aimee, and spent an afternoon with Christy's siblings again. The 420 fest was awesome- good beer, great music, and lots of people watching. I met some cool people that I'm pretty sure I'll be seeing again soon in Alaska so that was a highlight. Alex and I made it to the Highlands, an area of Atlanta we used to go every weekend in college so that was great.
Definitely a late night, after getting locked out of her apartment, but brunch on Sunday morning was probably the best food I'd ever had. Or at least close.
Anyone in the Atlanta area, go to J. Christopher's- amazing! I went to Agnes campus and got to see my Studio Dancers perform- they were incredible! It makes me miss dancing with them so much- and I'm so proud of what they have all bee able to do.
So, Sunday night, back out in Kennesaw with Christy and Whit. Monday was spent with Susie and all the kids. It was when I was leaving them that I realized how long I'll actually be gone for the Peace Corps. When I come back I might not even recognize them! So, to Agnes again to see Lies and go to lunch at Brickstore, probably one of my favorite places in Decatur. I said goodbye to my dancers and Bridget and took off for Asheville, NC.
Once here I met up with a friend who I haven't seen in a few years- He showed me around downtown Asheville, which I think I'm in love with so far. After dinner I met up with Ellese, my love, and we talked for hours catching up from the last year apart. It feels good to be moving on the road again- but I needed that time in Atlanta and I miss it so much already.

Thank you Alumni weekend!

My timing in Atlanta is perfect- because it's Alumni weekend there are parties and events going on all over campus. I was able to see my dancers on stage for their dress rehearsal which was awesome. I wanted to jump up there with them so bad! Alex and I met up after and went to a restaurant/ bar with some other Agnes ladies to celebrate their impending graduation. It was such a great night! It once again showed me the kind of people that go to Agnes and the amazing friends I have. Even if I didn't know some of the girls, it didn't matter because we have good ol' Agnes together.

Back in the ATL

The last few days have been relaxing and also very exciting- in a different way than before. This is the first place I've stayed on this trip where I've actually felt at home; I know the roads, restaurants, people, everything. It feels great to have stability, and it also feels like I'm not on a road trip anymore. I've needed a little break so I think it's all a good thing for me. So, Tuesday I came into Decatur and spent the afternoon with Kate, from college. I then saw Lies (from Agnes) and her new house, and proceeded to go to the Highlands (long strip of restaurants and bars) and meet up with Alex (old roommate from Agnes) and a few other friends. We ate, caught up, and went to Moe's and Joe's, where they have 3$ pitchers on Tuesday nights. We went there a lot in college so it was so fun to be back, sit in the same booths, and see the same young college kids come in around 11:30pm. I stayed with Alex so we got to catch up even more once we went back to her apartment to hang out.
Wednesday was my day back on the Agnes Scott campus. It's so strange to walk around the campus and not feel the procrastination of the tests and papers I was putting off, or the fear of running into teachers who's class I skipped. Instead I sat on a bench and read my book and loved watching the students go from class to class. I saw a few of my teachers and so many of my friends. I've missed my girls so much- it's so wonderful to catch up.
Then it was margharita-o-thirty with Kate and her boyfriend James.

Crazy weekend in NOLA!

OK, sorry to those who read this often- I've been a bit busy these past few days so no posts, but I'll try to catch up. So, Saturday in NOLA was perfect. Lunch at Saint James Cheese House was insane- I was like a little kid in a candy store with all that cheese. From there we went to the zoo which was great-
I think something's in the water this time of year cause all the animals were acting up- it was hilarious. We planned on going out early but instead we made dinner and ate at the condo. Once out, we headed straight to Bourbon Street again. We ended up meeting up with two girls, Megan and Kristin, at the bar with the great singer from Friday night. I met Kristin in Baton Rouge at Cracker Barrel and she said she was headed to NOLA to celebrate her 21st. What a night it was!! We danced, drank, were given roses, danced some more, and had quite a class time. Great girls- I'm so glad to have met them. When we got home we ended up meeting our neighbors, who recommended a great little restaurant for bunch. When we went in the morning (really it was already about 1pm) they were there finishing up brunch. And they were right- it was fabulous.
The drive to Atlanta started pretty rough but ended up going by pretty quick. It was wonderful to have company during the ride. I also made her DJ so we always had great sing-alone music going. We stopped in Auburn for dinner at Jackie's, a friend of Christy's from gymnastics. It was the perfect stop- great food, great conversation, not to mention a break from the pavement. From there I started seeing "Atlanta" road signs and I got so excited. It's like I was coming home. We made it to Christy's house at about midnight and hung out with Whit, Christy's husband, for a bit before going to bed. I can honestly say I slept like a rock- so tired from this weekend! That and this is the first place I've stayed that I've been before, so the comfort of being somewhere I know was/ is very nice.
Today, Monday, Christy and I have spent the afternoon with her 6 younger siblings. Typically we'd have done school all day because they're home schooled but today turned into a play day, which was great from me. It's been a relaxing, calm (even if not quite), and enjoyable day. And I didn't even have to get behind the wheel!

All is right with the world

I made it to New Orleans after blowing a tire about halfway. Thanks to a nice trucker named Scott I was back on the road in less than 20 mins. Christy got in about an hour after I did and we talked and caught up. It'll be so nice to have a car buddy for the next long drive. And a party buddy in NOLA!
We're staying at Christy's husband's aunt's house (that's a mouth full) two minutes away from the trolley to the French quarter. Beautiful neighborhood. We went on a swamp tour which was so great. I learned alligators love marshmallows and are a lot squishier to hold than I had thought. It was the perfect afternoon for a trip down the bayou. We got Po Boy sandwiches, shrimp and oyster combo, which were good but I don't think I'll need another anytime soon. For dinner we went to Luke, which was THE BEST crawfish bisque that has ever been made. Amazing. Then came Bourbon Street. We stopped in a bar where a woman was singing oldies songs- absolutely amazing. Then I got a Huge Ass Beer (I had to hold it with 2 hands for a while) and continued to walk down the road. I love the lack of open container law! We met a giant horse named Willie, watched drunk college students weave down the road, and I was hit in the head 3 times with beads (I was just minding my own business in case you're wondering).
We ended our night out with an 80's music coverband, who we loved! Who can deny late night 80's rock? We meant to call it an early night, however didn't make it home to almost 3am. Great first night in NOLA.

Day of Honor

This afternoon I went to the funeral of a man that died this weekend who was part of the Patriot Guard with my uncle. As my aunt and I drove into the cemetery, there were about 50 to 75 men on motorcycles (one my uncle) carrying big USA flags. It was a very impressive service, with many veterans and Patriot Guard members there. I had the chance to meet and talk to Doc Ballard, a Medal of Honor recipient. He was a very funny, down to earth, kind man. This evening (after an awesome steakhouse dinner and a fairly unimpressive basketball game) I watched 'Taking Chance', a movie about a fallen soldier in Iraq. It was an amazing movie and really put a new spin on my feelings about our armed forces. Talking with my uncle about the war and our soldiers, how people can protest at funerals, and the honor that is given to all the men and women that fight for the country was very eye-opening.

Austin to Denton

So I have to mention, last night, outside the backdoor, I saw 2 raccoons and a possum just chilling. I'm used to bears and moose outside, not the little guys like these, so I was pretty entertained watching them and having them watch me through the glass. Pretty cute! even if wild and possibly rabid ;)

So, I headed to Scholz Beir Garten this morning in Austin. Not really morning- it was about 12:05- but early for me. I then went back to Shady Grove and hung out with my new bartender friends. I will admit, the beer isn't anything to rave about, probably my least favorite beer selection thus far, but the scene and company has been wonderful. The drive to Denton was fairly easy- lots of traffic but no scary cops this time. My Aunt Jo was here to take me in and catch up on what I've been up to lately. Uncle Steve came home in perfect timing to see the start of the UNC-Michigan St game (which turned out to be not all the entertaining, sorry Mich fans). It's so great to be here at their house and spend time with both of them- living in AK makes it so tough to keep up with family sometimes. So, a little basketball, red wine, and lounging and I feel right at home.

Also let me note it's opening week for baseball and I am one very happy person

Mon jour en francais

Today started off with great coffee and great conversation. That was pleasantly followed by une classe en français parce que Polly et Gene vont en France pour un marriage! I was able to brush up a bit, seeing as I'm moving to a French speaking country soon, and enjoy listening t a beautiful French accent.
We then went on a short bike ride by the river (aka Town Lake) and had a picnic in the grass. Austin has a great feeling of a big city yet you can escape so easily and find somewhere quiet and green and take some time away. We drove by the capital building, which is beautiful, and I was able to see the round rock, after which the town was named. Not only was the day relaxing but informational as well.
This evening I went back to Zilker park, where I was yesterday for a bit, and played a round of disc golf with the bartenders from Shady Grove I met last night. I'm completely horrible at it but I had a great time. Dinner this evening was amazing and I feel so welcome here. I'm so thankful that I (and my mother) have so many wonderful friends that will open their doors to me at a minutes notice and show me around their beautiful home towns. Thank you again to everyone- you've made my trip worth taking. MERCI A TOUS!