Day 6: Dickinson, ND to Brainerd, MN. 6 hours, 430 miles Sept 26, 2025

We left Dickinson, ND early so we could make it to Brainerd, MN before dark. Despite the train nearby, I slept fairly well. As usual, Kasey drove. We got gas which was fairly inexpensive comparatively speaking and hit the highway east. The sun was at the right angle that the visor above me was in constant motion as I attempted to keep my face in the shadows. 

The scenery is filled with rural images on nearly flat and nearly straight roads. Traffic is very light.  There is a lot of time to think while driving. I wondered why people in rural areas seem to be conservative. I surmised that maybe it is because they don't travel or have a lot of exposure to people of various backgrounds. There are a variety of reasons but lack of travelling is one of them. Travelling can change your perspective on a multitude of things. 

Our country is so diverse in the landscapes and it makes sense that it is also as varied in our perspectives. 

We travel several times a year and we try to visit with people along the way. Today, we made no stops until Brainerd, MN where Kasey's cousin Jesse lives. 

Tad got to play with his 2 dogs Bud and Rudy. 

They seemed to get along just fine. So much so they formed a conga line during their first few minutes of meeting each other. Amazing that they all like dancing.

Jesse has 4 kids, 2 are still at home, his girls. The youngest had volleyball practice so we didn't get to visit. We had dinner downtown at a Mexican restaurant and then Jesse stopped at home to check on his youngest before we headed out to have a beer at the local brew pub.

Jesse graduated from University of Oregon with a degree in architecture.  We had the opportunity to see his handy work when we went to the Jack Pine Brewery. The entire building was his design. He is so talented. During our conversations that were mostly about the family, we found out that he and I crossed paths in a few places in California when he was living in the Bay Area as a youngster and just out of college. We probably were both in Davis, CA during the same year. He was 7 and I was 18. It is always nice to see Jesse and he is always happy to see us and we have a great visit. 

Tomorrow he is taking his daughter to catch the bus for an out of town game and he has to get up early so we turn in for the night.

Day 5 – Bear Gulch Pictographs to Phat Fish Brewing 330 miles

 We had an excellent night’s sleep, boondocking near the Bear Gulch Pictographs. They are a Harvest Host site, so we camped for free right on the property! We were amazed by seeing the Great Rift of the Milky Way. It seemed to stretch almost from horizon to horizon. 

Our guide, Ray, the son of owner Macie Ahlgren, met us at 9:30 and took Janice, Tad, and me in his truck down to the gulch. The pictographs are mainly on their farm, which has been in their family since the early 1900s.

Over the next 2 ½ hours, Ray showed us hundreds of pictographs and provided an interpretation of what they meant to the Black Creek Indians who lived there for thousands of years. 

Janice and I were absolutely amazed at what we saw, and we couldn’t believe that we were experiencing something not many people have seen. It wasn’t just about looking at ancient artwork; it felt like stepping back in time. Ray’s knowledge, passion, and ability to explain the significance of what we were seeing made the day unforgettable. It wasn’t just about looking at ancient artwork, it felt like stepping back in time. 

In addition to over 1,000 pictographs, settlers going back to 1896 signed the wall. Fortunately, they didn't deface any of the pictographs in the process.

We bought a large book that was published about the Bear Gulch Pictographs. We hope to return again to spend more time here next time.

We left and proceeded to travel dusty dirt roads for nearly 20 miles. It was easy for us to imagine being in a wagon train as I guided the motorhome through the hills and valleys of this magical place.

It took us almost 7 hours to reach our Harvest Host (Phat Fish Brewing). We enjoyed chicken jalapeno pizza along with some of their beer. We went to the motorhome and retired for the evening, anxious to get started in the morning. Tomorrow we will be in Minnesota!  

Day 4: Swan Lake to Bear Gulch Pictographs. Sept 24, 2025, 350 miles

A lovely start to the day with breakfast prepared by Jean. Sausage, eggs, fruit and COFFEE of course. Orange juice on the side as well. I don't think we have to eat lunch. The conversation was lively with talk of travelling, family, and gratitude. We logged some pictures, said our goodbyes with a more "see you later" attitude cause we hate goodbyes.

Our first break was at the sculptures in the wind attraction in Lincoln MT. An open park like stroll with Tad along well beaten paths from the multitudes of visitors.

The sculptures were mostly natural products. One of the sculptures was a very elaborate house looking structure made from willow twigs. Another was made out of newspapers. In this setting, I liked the ones that blended in. I think I liked the picture frame the best. Tad was excited the whole way and required a few gallons of water to rehydrate his tongue that was left hanging during our walk.

I took over driving for a few hours as we travelled across the roller coaster highways of the trip over the continental divide. 

When I resumed the passenger seat Tad was happy to stick his head out and catch the smells of the world. I caught the sprinkle of spraying dog slobber as the wind rushed to return the liquid to the cab where it began. Unapologetic, Tad turned with the same excitement to show his gratitude for the opportunity and smiled. His bony elbows digging into me were unpleasant to say the least but I adjusted quickly to relieve the pain.

The pictographs would be closed by the time we would arrive so my job was to find a suitable parking spot for the evening. The road turned to gravel but unlike Oregon, this road was not washboarded. Smooth sailing. We arrived just before sunset. As luck would have it, when we arrived, the son of the owner greeted us and showed us to the approved parking area. Just enough time to walk Tad and Comet, cook some soup, and eat the last of our chili from home. 

Kasey still had some beer from brew fest. A dark one that I passed on. We played a few games of spite and Malice. My mom's favorite game. I won 3 straight games and stopped 7 wars so all in a good days work. Tomorrow we explore the pictographs.

Day 3: Swan Lake with Jean Erickson Walker

We slept magnificently after yesterday’s 7+ hour drive to Swan Lake. Waking up at Jean Erickson Walker’s beautiful home, we felt so happy to be spending time with our dear friend in such a peaceful setting.

Jean made us a delicious frittata for breakfast, and we enjoyed planning our day together, swapping stories about our lives and travels. Her warmth and energy set the perfect tone for our visit.

Jean had a couple of errands, so Janice and I took the opportunity for an 11.5-mile bike ride to a wildlife refuge. It was a dreamy day—75 degrees, blue sky, biking along the lake and through trees. We watched a deer scamper across the road, and Janice stopped to take a picture of a snake for Julie Lowe. It has been such an honor to spend time with Julie’s mom and reminisce about Julie growing up.

When we got back, Jean was napping, so Janice, Tad, and I sat out on the deck overlooking Swan Lake, watching fishing boats troll by. Soon, drowsiness overtook us, too—I tipped my cap down and dozed off in a deck chair, while Janice and Tad went back to nap in the motorhome.

Later, I went inside to find Jean  on hors d’oeuvres before dinner. She is a marvelous cook, and we’re continually amazed at her ability to prepare incredible meals while engaging us in lively conversation.

Jean gifted us an incredible cookbook she wrote, filled with stories of their travels abroad and dozens of recipes, each choreographed with a memory or adventure. It’s a true treasure.

As we enjoyed the hors d’oeuvres, Jean prepared tuna filets, courtesy of a neighbor who dropped off a fresh catch that afternoon. Again, I’m in awe of how she cooks so gracefully while keeping us in conversation—I think I could only manage that with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!

After dinner, we settled in the living room and continued to share stories. Jean recounted how she and her husband, George, first met, and told us about their children: Cheryl, Julie, and Eric. She shared how Julie met her husband Chris, and we told Jean how grateful we are to have Julie and Chris as part of our Umpqua Watersheds team, and how much fun we have together.

We all shared stories about the twists and turns in our lives, and Janice and I reflected on how we found each other. It was a magical day, and we feel so grateful and humbled,, by Jean’s amazing hospitality.

Swan Lake, here we come: Day 2 Sept 22, 2025 450 miles

We crossed into Washington today with Comet riding shotgun. Headed for Spokane to get dog treats and gas. I saw a dollar tree and decided to get some cheapo reading glasses and canned dog food while Kasey went into Costco for a few things. We chose a spot away from all the stores and took up several spots for parking. While in the dollar store a young woman with 2 small kids was struggling to get through adventures in shopping. Apparently the older one that wasn't in the stroller and was about 3 or 4 had let out a few bad words. WTF comes to mind. She seemed unsure where the youngster heard those words and cautioned to never say them again or penalties would ensure. As she was trying to manage to not get more items in the cart as the older one kept adding items, she seemed to get a head of the additions by placing them out of reach. A constant "don't do this" and "put that back" was the dialogue for a good part of 15 minutes all while I was grateful to not have had to been a part of adventures in shopping. I started to think that she should have brought some duct tape. The toddler was crawling in these little spaces under the checkout counter and a leash came to mind as a handy item. The mother offered bribes of snacks and sugary and colorful items if he would be a good boy. As the tallying came to an end, the woman then had several bags that she had not intended to have. As she loaded the cart, the checker said that she could not take the cart out of the store. The exasperated mother started to figure the options of a stroller and a toddler with 3 bags of groceries. Seeing her predicament, I immediately offered assistance to carry items to her car for her. She assured me that it was fine and she would manage but as I checked out and she was still struggling to get through the door, I offered again and this time she said that it would be nice. As I walked to the car with her, she said that she had not planned on getting so many items but stuff kept getting loaded in the stroller.

After I got back to the motorhome, I waited for Kasey. 

Off we went to St. Regis MT for the famous souvenir store. The place with live fish in tanks. All kinds of things in the store including butt wipes. It is fun and Kasey bought a couple of Huckleberry shakes because one was not enough for him.

The drive to Swan Lake was scenic and our destination was Jean Walker's house, Julie's mom.

An absolutely wonderful house along swan lake with a delightful view.  We had a wonderful dinner filled with conversation. We had never had paeia before. 

We retired for the night filled with stories of previously visiting grizzly bears. No long walk for Tad tonight.

More fun tomorrow.

Dusty Trails Wagon Train – Day 1: Umpqua Brew Fest and Hitting the Road

Hello from Boardman, Oregon!

After weeks of organizing, anticipation, and teamwork, Umpqua Brew Fest XIV is officially in the books, and what a celebration it was! As the sun rose early yesterday, our small but mighty crew got to work, transforming the Umpqua Outback into a vibrant festival of music, community, and craft beer. By 9:30 last night, after a full day of festivities, laughter, and connection, Janice and I were exhausted, but not weary. There’s a difference. My heart is full and happy with how everything turned out.

The big Umpqua Outback banner looked fantastic as the backdrop for an incredible lineup of musicians. The whole place radiated with color and creativity, thank you to everyone who contributed! Our sponsors, volunteers, musicians, and guests truly brought this event to life.

A special shout-out to everyone who enjoyed the beers and read the descriptions. “Taddy’s Good Boy Pale Ale” turned out to be a fan favorite  a fitting tribute to our loyal four-legged companion. 

This morning, the whirlwind continued as we finished packing, tidied up the house, and loaded the bikes on the motorhome. By 2pm, we were rolling north, our spirits lifted by memories of the festival and excitement for the journey ahead. Our first night’s stop: Boardman, Oregon, at Burnt Field Brewing and Pizza. Though they were just closing when we arrived, we made do with some homemade pico de gallo from our garden—a humble but satisfying start to our adventure.

Tomorrow, we hit the road for Montana—destination: Swan Lake, where we’ll stay with our dear friend Jean Erickson Walker for a couple of nights. After that, we’ll continue on to Minnesota, where I look forward to reuniting with family, especially after the worry of Ashley’s recent hospitalization. I am so grateful that she’s out and recovering.

Tonight we are all feel like Tad looks like in this picture. Exhausted!

As I write this, I’m reminded again of the power of community and connection, whether at a bustling festival or a quiet family gathering. Here’s to new roads, old friends, and the spirit that keeps us moving forward, together.

Stay tuned for Day 2—Janice’s turn!

On the Road Again!

Janice, Tad, Comet, and I left home Saturday morning, bound for Petaluma, CA, to celebrate Janice’s niece Morgan and her husband Grant’s wedding vow renewal. They were married quietly a few years ago, but now we finally have the chance to celebrate with them and their two precious daughters, Acacia and Hazel—about 460 miles from home.

We wrapped up a few last chores before leaving at 10 a.m., fueled up, picked up supplies at Costco, and pointed the rig south on I-5. After more than five hours on the road, we decided to stop for the night at a Harvest Host site near Willows, CA, called Chico Rice.

Chico Rice is a working rice farm that not only grows rice, but also packages it on-site. We arrived around 4:30, checked in with our host Tom by phone, and set up camp beneath the welcome shade of the silos.

It was still sweltering—the high that day was 104°F! It was 97 when we rolled in, but much cooler in the shade. We stripped down to the bare essentials (shorts for me, shorts and a top for Janice) and enjoyed watching flocks of cormorants fly overhead. Tad and Comet relished a little freedom to roam and stretch their legs.

After the sun dipped below the horizon, we scrambled into the motorhome, where Janice proceeded to thrash me in three games of Rummikub. (“Please ma’am, may I have another beating?”) Eventually, we retreated to the bedroom and slept well once things cooled off.

This morning, after fueling up and grabbing some coffee, we drove two more hours to Petaluma. We both got haircuts, hit the ATM for some cash, took Tad to a local dog park, and made our way to the wedding venue—a lovely farm called Flying Cloud. We checked in early and were given a spot to dry camp overnight. The high is expected to hit 93°F today, so we put out the awning and did our best to keep Tad and Comet cool and comfortable.

The festivities officially kick off at 3 p.m., and the temperature should be dropping by then. We’re looking forward to celebrating Morgan and Grant’s special day surrounded by family and friends.

As always, it’s these little moments—games in the cool of the motorhome, birds wheeling in the evening sky, the excited energy of family reuniting—that make the journey as memorable as the destination. Onward!

Fast Times… (September Reflections)

 August seemed to fly by even faster than usual this year. We kicked off the month by celebrating Ken and Jenny’s wedding anniversary at their annual two-day party at their beautiful home along the North Umpqua—just a mile downhill from us. That same weekend, we also marked the 80th birthday of our dear friend, Jim Arneson.

The following weekend, Janice and I slipped away to the Coast to celebrate our 11th anniversary, as we do every year. There’s something magical and timeless about being together by the ocean, where worries seem to be swept away with the tide.

August continued at a quick pace with plenty of projects at Umpqua Watersheds. Usually, we travel east to Minnesota for several weeks in late summer to visit family, but this year, we decided to go after the Umpqua Brew Fest, not before. We wanted to be here to attend Janice’s niece Morgan and her husband Graham’s wedding celebration (though they were quietly married nine years ago, this will be a true gathering of family and friends).

September promises to be even more eventful. Preparations for the Umpqua Brew Fest are in full swing—my 11th and final year as lead organizer and promoter of this event. There’s always pressure, especially this year with fewer beer trailers than usual, but we have a great team and over $8,000 in sponsorships secured, which eases the fundraising burden. Still, there are countless moving parts to coordinate before Saturday, September 20th!

In the midst of it all, we’ve been busy canning tomatoes and peppers from the garden, with more still to do. 🍅🌶

This weekend, we’re off on a two-day camping trip to Crater Lake to participate in the "Ride the Rim"—a 34-mile bike trip around the lake. We’ll return Sunday to work on the new stage roof for the Umpqua Outback Project, aiming for a major milestone with the soft launch of KQUA 90.5 NCE later this month.

If all goes to plan, the day after Brew Fest, Janice, Tad, Comet, and I will hop in the motorhome for a six-week road trip. I’ve had the itinerary ready for over a month: we’ll stop to see Julie Lowe’s mom in Montana, then my cousin Jesse in Brainerd, and spend three weeks in Minnesota with my sister Lynn, my son Nick (and his family), my daughter Ashley (and her boys), and—hopefully—more cousins. We’ll wind our way home via Wisconsin (to visit Janice’s cousin in Green Bay), Madison (to see Amy and Zach), and Springfield, Illinois, for some Abraham Lincoln history. Perhaps we’ll also visit Hannibal, Missouri, to take in some Mark Twain exhibits, and then head south to see Janice’s niece in Oklahoma City before crossing back through Aztec, New Mexico, and home by late October.

Our long trips are always bittersweet—a touch of sadness to leave home, mixed with the excitement of the road, time with loved ones, and the adventure of the unknown. I handle most of the planning, which helps keep Janice from feeling overwhelmed, and I find joy in shaping the journey.

Earlier tonight, we shared a meal with our dear friend and best man, Mike Burke. I made tamales, and we reminisced about our whirlwind 900-mile weekend trip, including camping at Chico Rice near Willows, California—a Harvest Host site that welcomes travelers for a night in exchange for supporting local products. Mike, who grew up in Willows and harvested rice in the 1960s, enjoyed the stories and the organic rice we brought back. We sent him home with his usual "care package" of leftovers, grateful for a moment of quiet connection before the next busy stretch.

And so, in the swift current of these days, we hold on to each moment, knowing how quickly it all passes.

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Closing Reflection

In the swirl of busy days and long miles, I am reminded of the gift of presence—how each gathering, garden harvest, and shared meal is a stitch in the tapestry of our lives. However quickly time may pass, the bonds we nurture, the roots we tend, and the memories we create will linger long after the calendar page turns.