Well, I should not complain, because we have had a phenomenal trip for over 3 weeks, but last night was the first bad experience in a hotel on this trip. The Best Western in Athens Alabama is a true roach motel, with 1/3 of the shower covered in black mold and little critters crawling about. It was gross. Unfortunately, after such a long day of driving, there was absolutely no way I was going to get Brando to move out and find another hotel. Even though we have done a lot of camping in our lives, I was struggling to equate the lack of cleanliness to the great outdoors, because I would have preferred the fresh air and clean dirt over this place. Needless to say I woke up at 5:00am ready to go. Brando thought ... read more

The big day has arrived, and the 75th Anniversary Jubilee Car Event has begun. This is one of the finest collections of cars we have seen, including the Concourse D'Elegance Shows we have visited. And it is in a great venue, the Kentucky State Fairground Expo Center, known as "Freedom Hall". As an indoor arena, no rain, dust, sun, or any other natural element interferes with your show. In fact, the air conditioning is so cold we have to wear sweaters in summertime. As a side note, this is not my first time in this arena. In 1976, I rode my American Saddlebred Horse to a National Championship win in Freedom Hall! I believe this was the proudest day in my, and especially my mother's life. Mom (Sue Lynagh Grim) was a horseback rider from childhood, ... read more

A beautiful day for a drive to tour the countryside of Kentucky and Indiana. We head off for the resort town of French Lick. First we hop aboard the tourist railroad and see the scenery. Then off to the grand hotels. The area called French Lick, Indiana, site of the French Lick Springs Resort and one of the earliest outposts in the middle - Western wilderness, was first settled more than 200 years ago by French traders. After the discovery of rich mineral springs, which attracted animals that flocked to lick the waters and wet rocks, this valley became known among the settlers as “The Lick”. A rich colorful history included such famous names as John Barrymore, Clark Gable, Bing Crosby, President Roosevelt, the Truman’s, the Reagan’s and Joe and Rose Kennedy. It was there in ... read more

After the lovely night at the best B&B of the whole trip, we carry on to Niagara Falls. But a few words about the Country Willows Bed & Breakfast in Niagara-on-the-Lakes. The biggest, best room, big screen TV, fresh baked cookies and a filled cold water pitcher on the bedside. The breakfast was huge, delicious, and lasted us all day. Lovely hosts, we truly enjoyed our stay and highly recommend it. Our hosts Bill Devolin & Beverley Epp-Devolin were excellent. We did awaken to what we thought was rifle shots, but later found out that they have propane "booms" every few minutes to scare away the birds from the vineyards. Rise and shine!... read more

After Niagara, we make a stop in Buffalo and as per strict instructions from my brother, Andy (whom I can still call Bubba, because I am the baby sister!). He and his lovely gal McIver know every perfect restaurant in every town...anywhere! We have to stop at the Anchor Bar for the founders of the original Buffalo Wings. Now as we leave Canada, and while the dutiful border patrol question Brando seriously about the contents of our car, on my side of the car approaches more border patrol cops. Only mine are much easier to talk with, because they are clearly looking at what a cool car the Packard is. They also gave me the directions to the Anchor Bar! The wings are outstanding, and the Beef on Weck (that is a type of roll with ... read more