Was still focused on St Louis and didn't realize once we crossed the Missouri River we would be in Illinois. We thought something was different but was not confirmed until we stopped at the first rest stop! I am my fathers daughter - can read a map, very seldom in my life have I been lost (the loop outside of Washington DC in 1996) and not afraid of driving great distances on my own! BUT in this day of technology - I have set out on this trip with my iPhone ...

Missouri! Armadillo's is not what I thought of when thinking of this part of the country.... but this is what we saw alot of. Of course, they were all dead along the side of the road :(. Is there a conspiracy going on between Texas & Missouri? (yes, the road had been long !) The country side is changing and all seems lusher, no other word for it. All is very green and more trees! Along with that goes the humidity. Only snapped a few pictures but firewor...

Nebraska - this was a quick state for us! Hopped over the Missouri River into Omaha to be able to get a hotel. Had dinner - finding a new Mexican restaurant we like - Qdoba. Then right back out of the state this morning... Straight up, first visit to Nebraska! Both Steve and I thought of Mutual of Omaha Wild Kingdom! Who, of a certain age, doesn't think of the show. Marlin Perkins and Jim Fowler brought animals to our tv's for years! Note: Omaha is the lar...

For Wyoming can say saw lots of land.... And to this point, the largest range of animals : Elk - just feet from the highway Turkey - in Buffalo right outside our hotel Cows & horses - by the pasture full Hawk Antelope Also one extreme field of old car & parts - yuk! Also coming over the hill into Gillette could see the smoke stacks from miles away. Ended up being coal mining - too bad the picture of the pit didn't turn out as it was HUGE! Then a f...

Remembering my only other trip to south Dakota. About 1975 or 1976 with my grandparents and aunt Rosie. To go to visit my grandmother's family. Oh, the arguing that went on between my aunt and grams - while gramps sat quietly waiting til they forgot subject, just to gladly bring it back up! This trip is a bit quieter ;) Not to outshine the family! Met aunts, uncles and cousins - most farmers. First rodeo and atv ride! Great memories... Back to present t...