Today we hit the road. It was tough for me to say goodbye to everyone - to all the family members who have helped us out while we were in Kansas and to all the friends I have met. I guess I'm also nervous to be going home - seems like so much has changed with us since we left.... and despite everything, Miguel and I enjoyed our time in Kansas. I also hate the idea of leaving Miguel behind in Kansas to finish up with oncology appointments and some dental surgery.......and.....I'm always nervous before heading out on the road....
But today we did........my sister Karen (the older and meaner sister)* has the trip all planned out (subject to me making changes along the way). We started off by going south to Oklahoma City, OK as we wanted to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum created to those killed in the 1995 bombing. It is a very moving monument - there is so much symbolism - memorials for those who died, those who rushed to help, those who survived and those whose lives were changed. The 9 rows of empty chairs ( small ones for the children and large ones for the adults who died) sit on a grassy slope, overlooking a large reflecting pool. There are impressive black gates at either end of the Memorial, a treed area representing those who rushed in to help the injured and a stately old "Survivor Tree" that was unaffected by the blast. Well worth the visit - just to see all the symbolism that is included in the whole site - so different from memorials of days gone by.
From Oklahoma City we traveled west through the flat fields of Oklahoma into the Texas panhandle. Want to see the largest cross in the Western Hemisphere? Stop in Groom Texas (we didn't). Want to get a free 72 oz. steak? Stop to eat in Amarillo, TX (you must eat the whole thing in one hour - we didn't stop there). We have pulled in for the night in Amarillo and went searching for BBQ....we figured it was a mandatory thing to try......and we did manage to find someplace that had a great BBQ complete with Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce (yes, it is true). Tomorrow we head to or beyond Albuquerque, NM......
I'm missing Kansas......but looking forward to getting home.......
* This may or may not be true
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Quidnunc - from the Latin "what now?" The term also now may refer to a person who seeks to know all the latest news or gossip. This journal discusses the arts, the culture, the interactions, the travels, the journeys and the thoughts of someone constantly asking "quidnunc".
Who is asking quidnunc?
- Krista
- I am interested in modern things, such as television, magazines, books and movies. Long-time obsessions include trivia (including Jeopardy and Reach for the Top), movies, sudokus, crosswords, and cooking. My newest obsessions include learning how to play bridge, geneology, on-line scrabble, road trips and trying to get people to cook for me. I always have opinions. My children have flown the coop (for the most part, except for the need for money and periodic assistance) and I am truly trying to figure out what next. You can email me at: quidnuncjournal@gmail.com
2 comments:
Looks like "older meaner sister" has planned an interesting and memorable road trip.Wonderful that you are able to have this experience together as you transition back to Vancouver and your lives there.
Looking forward to tomorrow's installment.
Nora
Sitting here, back in Toronto, I am with both of you in spirit. Your road trip sounds great. I am already missing Karen's commentaries on every place you are visiting. May I suggest that all that is needed is a little music to keep things lively--perhaps Broadway musicals or James Blunt? Mandy Patinkin is always a personal favourite (remember the Acheson, Topeka and the Santa Fe ??, His songs fit any occasion.) Enjoy that feeling of being in transition -- a road trip is great at allowing you the opportunity to hang between at least two worlds, with few attachments to either place.
Even though we were only in Wichita for a short period, I can understand why you are missing it. Anyway, have a great road trip you two -- wish I was there.
Wendy
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