The air has just begun to get that cool crispness to it. The trees have just started to show a hint of gold on their leaves. The car is loaded with itineraries, suitcases, microfiber towels, coolers, chairs and cameras. The tire shine spray bottle is empty. As you approach your car, you can almost see it jump for joy as it anticipates what is about to happen. You turn the ignition and you hear it: the motor hums as it awaits your foot on the pedal, so it can taste that sweet, sweet gasoline that propels it and us to what?---to ADVENTURE!
What does all this mean?
The 2014 Western Scenic Tour has begun!
This year, we have begun in the quaint town of Williams, Arizona. It is a charming town nestled off of Interstate 40 on historic Route 66. Interesting fact: Williams was the last town to have its section of Route 66 bypassed, due to lawsuits that kept the last section of Interstate 40 in Arizona from being built around the town. After settlements called for the state to build three Williams exits, the suits were dropped and I-40 was completed. On October 13, 1984, Interstate 40 was opened around the town and newspapers the next day reported the essential end of US 66. The following year, Route 66 was decommissioned.
Twenty-eight people have come from across the country to gather for a week-long adventure through 5 national parks, including two castles, in 7 days. They have travelled from near and far: Florida, Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Colorado, California and Arizona.
For dinner this evening, we gathered at an interesting venue: South Rims Wine and Beer Garage. They were formerly an automotive repair shop. When the building was being renovated, and the floor boards pulled up, a fully intact car lift and grease pit were discovered! The owners have a gorgeous 1967 jet black Pontiac GTO parked INSIDE the restaurant now. Very cool. The food was great! We overwhelmed them with our growing numbers, but the staff was gracious and it gave us all time to get reacquainted and to get to know our newest participants.
After dinner, we all gathered for an evening meeting in the courtyard of The Lodge. Terry and Mary coordinated a wonderful gift exchange event. Each “car” brought a gift from their state, and we had a playful gift exchange involving “stealing” from others. We began the poker run and raffle sales. Also, a special thanks to Jim and Denise for the car decals! They are awesome! Then, we all relaxed for social time with the warmth of the fireplaces to soothe our travelled bodies.
Tomorrow, we ride the rails to see the Grand Canyon! Good night all. Wish you were here!
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