Blogs from Deadwood, South Dakota, United States, North America

Day 13 - Another early start to the day for our ride to Cody, Wyoming. A brief stop in Cody at Wayne's Boot World, where I bought my boots in 2014, thanks to eagle eye Snapper. Bought some cream for Nifty's boots and Angela's jacket, I was almost talked into a couple of western belts but managed to stay strong, there'll be more Western stores along the road. From here an uninteresting ride to Meeteetse, then onto Thermopolis for morning tea. We sat in a beautiful park by the hot springs, inhaling that unforgettable sulphur odour which wafted across town. Next up was a section that I have been looking forward to, Wind River Canyon, which runs from Thermopolis to Shoshoni along the Wind River. Another terrific canyon ride, which I filmed on the Go Pro, ... read more

I didn't really get to do much today, since the drive was massive. But that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy what I did get to do. My day started off in Morrill, NE, where I had stayed at the Oak Tree Inn - a place I highly recommend if you ever find yourself in town. Next to it is Penny's Diner, and this thing is right out of the 1950s. Inside, it's like a Waffle House, but less grimy. The food was good, greasy, and quick to arrive. All things you hope for in a diner experience. The service was great, and I really didn't have to eat again until much later in the day. I took my time this morning, since I knew I could get some much-needed sleep before starting the 4-hour drive to ... read more

Started day with breakfast at the day cafe / night bar. Good breakfast and we had discounted from hotel. Then off fairly early for a packed day of fun. Bear Country USA - https://www.bearcountryusa.com- drive through/walk through sanctuary. Very well ran and the babies were the best to watch. Being there first thing in the morning was a very good idea. 1880's Train - https://www.1880train.com- I made reservations and paid for tickets online ahead of time. This made it pretty easy to check in and pick up our tickets in Keystone, SD. Nice train ride over to Hill City. Not near as scenic as some other train rides but the staff gave lots of very informative information about the area. During the layover in Hill City ... read more

They came from near and far for the Atkins reunion. Roberta from Green Valley, AZ; Judy from San Luis Obispo, CA; Linda from Northville, SD; Susan and Kevin from Sausalito, CA; Mike from Sioux Falls, SD; Annette and Tom from London, UK; Tom and Leila and granddaughter Aleila from Sioux Falls, SD; Mary and Bob from Sioux Falls, SD; Betsy and Tim from Minneapolis, MN; Teresa and Matt from Des Moines, IA; Steve and daughter Ellie from New Plymouth, New Zealand. Our sister Peggy was there in spirit from heaven. After lots of searching, we found just the right place for the reunion: the Black Hills of South Dakota. We rented three houses with four bedrooms each. The Gilded Mountain Residences were just the right size for our daily get togethers and our nightly dinners. Each ... read more

Once upon a time, and as I have mentioned a few times throughout my previous blogs, we decided to go on a big long roadtrip – the furthest we’d ever driven one way! From Calgary to Halifax, Nova Scotia, but primarily through the United States. The problem with roadtrips is backtracking…in my opinion… The roadtrip is really fun and exciting the entire time, UNTIL it’s time to come home, and then I just want to be home. Instantly So, we decided to by a “disposable” car. It was 1984 Ford Marquis, purchased for $400. It was SO comfortable – it passed inspection – perfect! Our plan was to drive it one way, and, if it made it in a decent shape, donate it once we were ready to come home, and then fly home. It was ... read more