In the beginning....

April 6, 2011

Five years ago, I bought a 1995 Airstream 190 camper.  It's like a big van with a bed over the cab.  It has all the conveniences of home: stove, microwave, fridge, bath, commode, bed, storage. I knew I wanted to take a long road trip or two once I had the time and retirement was in my future.  I used it a bit in Florida, but mostly it stayed with my grandkids family.  They enjoyed all kinds of adventure in it. 

Originally, I'd thought I'd take the Pan American Highway through South America.  I've been to Peru, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico and really like the history there.  And my Spanish has gotten acceptable over the years....at least for a tourist. But going through Chiapas, ripe with revolution and anti-American sentiment, put a damper on that.  And it would probably be even more dangerous when I hit Venezuela...if they'd even let me in.  So, I looked north.

There was always the wonderful thought of visiting old friends.  And I hope to see many of them on this trip.  I've become enchanted with the Vikings.  Don't laugh.   Little did I realize that there were a TON of Viking ruins along the coast of Labrador and Newfoundland in Canada. Whole colonies flourished for short periods after 1000.  The Basque fishermen had a thriving cod industry going.  There is even a legend that has the Knights Templar moving into the continent through the area.  I started reading....and, wow, the fire was lit.  Not only would I explore ancestors (my father's side is Scandanavian), I would also get to luxuriate in the kind of scenery, weather and land that I adore.  Maine lobster was everywhere!  I'd learn some French too.

Also, I've never had a chance to really explore all of the history in New England...nor have I seen  the leaves change up there.  Massachusetts is especially inviting.  Old friends, the Guthrie Center and writers' homes draw me to it.  And there is a figure skating training center in Simsbury that hosts many internationally known skaters.

So, this is the story of my trip.  I hope you all enjoy it.