In July, my mom and I will set out from California, through the Northern(ish) states to Upstate New York to visit much-missed family. This was only recently planned, due to some family health problems and our need to see Grandpa Tommy and the rest of the crazy New York bunch. We have been visiting every summer for the past few years, and we were planning on taking this summer off to save some money, but it seems we just can't stay away! Only this time, we're leaving the boys at home and taking my mom's truck instead of our usual Southwest Airlines.
We are tentatively planning to leave July 6th and return sometime around the end of July/beginning of August, though we don't have any huge time constraints, besides me getting some work done and attending some summer trainings before school starts. We won't be stopping at nearly as many places as Karen and I did last summer, but we do have a few big stops planned:
Yellowstone National Park--Karen and I had planned on stopping here on the return part of our road trip, but as everyone told us we would, we ran out of time. Tennessee was just too irresistible! So I'm excited to spend some time hiking and enjoying the beautiful park.
Chicago, IL--Though I tend to kind of hate big cities, I can usually enjoy them for a very short period of time. I have heard that there is a lot to do and see in Chicago, so we'll stop for a day or two.
Boston, MA--It would be hard for me to really explain why, but I have always wanted to visit Boston. Maybe it's something about the history, or the ships, or that I have heard much about it, but I'm excited!
Portland, ME--I have always wanted to visit the Coast of Maine too, and I can explain this one. For one thing, I am dying to eat lobster in Maine--yummy! Also, I love the ocean, and I've heard that Coastal Maine is one of the most beautiful areas in the country. Plus, my mom loves lighthouses.
Central Bridge, NY--Too tiny to be on most maps, but the place my mom was born and raised. We will stay here for about a week visiting family. I can't wait to see grandpa and get a whole new grocery bag full of dried-out pens from him! :-)
So, if anyone has any tricks, tips, places to stay, things to see, etc. please let us know! We'll be doing much less camping this time around, but are still on a serious budget, so we're looking for cheap motels, etc. to stay in.
I'm so excited and feel so privileged to be able to see even more of our country and spend this quality time with my mom! I can't wait!
