As of Wednesday, March 20th at 12:50 (CST), Charlie and I entered our new home of Olney, IL, home of the White Squirrel. After much anticipation, I'm finally ready to make my first post on our already established blog.
Since Charlie and I made the decision to keep a blog I have been excited, but resistant to blogging until I felt our American journey had begun. Charlie being very much in the moment and out of his normal routine was ready to blog his last day of work in February. Looking back, I'm glad he did because we had quite a few mini adventures on the East coast as we waited to receive our first travel PT placement. It is incredible how difficult it is to spend quality time with those who mean the most to you in our hectic everyday lives. We couldn't ask for better friends and family, so despite our prolonged "vacation" from working, it was amazing to spend our time with all of you.
Now onto my version of our "American Adventure" thus far...
It started with a Ford Escape that was packed to the brim and ready for some action.
Followed by 7 hrs of driving (Charlie driving, Amanda sleeping/keeping the driver entertained with music, podcasts, and trivia) to Columbus, Ohio. No matter what Mom Funk says about The Red Roof Inn, I recommend this hotel located in downtown Columbus to anyone looking for affordable, convenient, and comfortable lodging that is within walking distance to various hot spots (e.g. food, sport, history) and includes a nice continental breakfast.
 |
| Scioto River & the Santa Maria replica in Columbus, OH |
Well rested, we continued our drive from Columbus, OH to Olney, IL which opened our eyes to the Midwest's vast farmland. With no hills in sight I am finally excited to ride my new road bike! We couldn't have asked for better weather to drive the 5 hours to Olney and arrived to this quaint town right on time.
We received a warm welcome from our landlord, a spunky 85-year old woman, who owns the local appliance store we're living above. She and her daughter have been very helpful thus far and pointed us in the right direction as we've begun exploring the surrounding area (state park, lakes, local library, movie theater, coffee shop, etc). We are getting a kick out of the truly small town life we've stumbled upon and are really looking forward to working and playing here.
We received a warm welcome from our landlord, a spunky 85-year old woman, who owns the local appliance store we're living above. She and her daughter have been very helpful thus far and pointed us in the right direction as we've begun exploring the surrounding area (state park, lakes, local library, movie theater, coffee shop, etc). We are getting a kick out of the truly small town life we've stumbled upon and are really looking forward to working and playing here.
One more thing before I sign out for today...
We had the pleasure of meeting our soon to be co-workers yesterday and were informed where to find the best ice cream around. Intrigued, we drove the 20 miles to Sumner, IL where we experienced Dairy Dee's ice cream where they have the slogan, "World famous ice cream (in this part of the world)." The main street of this town had mostly empty store fronts, however, Dairy Dee's is intact, well maintained and appears to be thriving! Charlie enjoyed their staple strawberry cheesecake flavor, whereas I went for a weekly special of vanilla and orange (mmmm...creamsicle!).
YEAH!!!!! First I am so excited that you are actually there and loving it (although I still wish the Poconos had been your first location, but that's strictly selfish on my part). Next, well done getting right on that ice cream train. If there is one thing I have learned in my 27 years it is that there are far too many good ice cream places and not nearly enough time to visit them all, especially when you want to try everything on the menu.
ReplyDeleteFinally, just as a little aside, I was OBSESSED with "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?" as a child, to the point that I actually purchased the soundtrack. I am not so much ashamed to say, but rather devastated, that when I traded in my first car at 19 I forgot it in the CD player and have missed it ever since. Basically I'm just trying to say I love your little tracking logo :)
WOO HOO...GO OLNEY!
I'm glad you are a fan of the Carmen Sandiego reference. Clearly I had an obsession with it too. And KC, let me tell you, you would love this Dairy Dee place. I thought of you as soon as we got there. If you are ever passing through the Mid-West you better stop there!
DeleteCongrats on your drive, and the official start of your adventure! So happy for you two :D Please keep up the blog - I am sure many of us are stalking you, but not commenting.
ReplyDeleteThanks buddy. We will definitely be staying on top of the blog. I love this thing. I can only hope that we have lots of stalkers, but I'm especially glad you are one of them.
Delete