From East Coast to West Coast - Part 1

It occured to me two days ago that in spite of 20 years spent driving across the US, I’ve never driven from ocean to ocean, coast to coast, Atlantic to Pacific. But here I am, right now, doing just that.

When I started on this trip, I wasn’t actually sure I was going to go for it. My initial plan was to get the van in a more convenient location.

“Where?” Anywhere but the east coast.

So I pointed the van west, and started driving. And this is what I saw…

1. Linda demonstrates “Near and Far”

2. Holy Shells on the Outer Banks

3. Beach Wildflower

4. Sourdough Bread I made from homemade yeast water, and a starter I made last fall.

5. The Delicate Dance Steps of a Leaf.

I love van life during December. Almost every campground I visit has exactly three other people staying there. Three other guests is perfect. It gives all parties plenty of privacy. I like parking far away from everyone else. But with three people staying there, there’s a good chance that your neighbor has a dog, and you might get to meet them!

6. Three Leaves

7. Shadow

8. Forty Miles on an old railroad. I like rail trails.

It was in Arkansas when I had to make my decision. I could leave my van at a buddy’s house in Oklahoma, or I could press on and head to the coast.

“Should I stay or should I go now?”

I decided to go for it. Why not? Do something different! And so, I kep my van pointed west, and put on another audiobook.

Predawn Light.

9. Shrubbery.

10. Homemade gnocci and pesto

11. Texas Mountain Hike

12. Petroglyphs. I really like ancient art and petroglypghs in particular. It appeals to me as an artist and a journalist. These guys were just using stone instead of paper.

12. Petroglyph at Sunset.

13. Highlights

14. First Light of Day

15. Last Light of Day.

I’ve been in the van for two weeks. I haven’t looked in a mirror. I’ve used deodorant twice. I’ve biked 95 miles on rail trails. I found some excellent Texas brisket. I hiked up a mountain. I’ve listened to four books. I had a profound thought concerning mountains while climbing up the mountain, but forgot it hiking back down.

It’s been a very enjoyable sojourn thus far. More to come!