Iowa Bound! On the Road - Day 1

The original plan changed.  Once Butch returned home, it didn't take us long to realize we'd easily fill a second U-Haul.  He rented another truck, along with a car-hauler to tow behind it. Since the Bronco wouldn't be taking passengers, we loaded it with some of my concrete statuary & plant pots.  Butch will drive our truck with camper & pull the horse trailer, while I drive the U-Haul.

Our last night - was spent taking the very last items out of the house & packing them where we could.  Last things out - would be the first things in!  Finally, Butch had the Bronco to load onto the car hauler.  Thankfully, Pat offered up her large yard to park the 20ft. U-Haul once we'd picked up the trailer.  Getting the Bronco on - was hair-raising - at least it to those of us watching.  We really couldn't do much but try to guide Butch up the too narrow loading ramps & onto the trailer with hardly an inch to spare! 

We'd been sleeping in the camper since Butch's first trip - but neither of us slept a wink.  Morning came, Pat walked up to say goodbye - super hard for us both...  As Butch loaded Farah's things, I walked the Homestead & couldn't help but think about all the memories we'd made.  Donnie was waiting at the bottom of the hill, a final goodbye...   

We fueled up at the corner station.  Our final stop, was in Duvall to pick up daughter Courtney.  She had insisted from the beginning  - on accompanying us.  We were so glad to have her!  It made leaving a little easier.

Ready to hit the road!  Courtney, Connie & Butch

As we pulled into the Safeway parking lot, I had my first lesson in trying to maneuver the 20-ft. U-Haul & trailer through tight spaces...  Well - OK - Yes - Butch had to rescue me!  :-)   Son-in-law David stopped by, to give his wife a final kiss goodbye & wish us well on our Great Adventure!

Nika - unsure - but willing :-)

 We'd adjusted our travel plans - deciding to make our first day a short one (315-miles) & stop at the Fairgrounds in Spokane for the night.  It was a smart decision.  We were all tired & it was dark by the time we pulled in.  Did I mention cold - temperatures already dropping to the low 30's.

Farah having dinner~

Once Farah was settled, Butch drove the U-Haul & took us out for dinner.  This night - we slept - until the sounds of construction - on the far side of a busy street woke us at 6 a.m.  It was clear, cold & we were ready to be back on our way!  Next stop - Bozeman!