We're Off the Captain Shouted

"We're  Off the Captain Shouted, and the Oars began to leak."

This is what my dad always said whenever we began a journey. Always when we left for the country, a journey of 100 miles. It seems a fitting statement as we begin ours. I realize I have no idea where this comes from, but it is certainly part of our family traditions. So ...

Day 1: 200 miles south on 1-5 brought us to Grants Pass at about 5 pm. We left around noon after a few stops - especially a brief Costco foray that resulted in the delicious aroma of roasted chicken perfuming the camper. We lunched at a rest stop around two - chicken and bread, and a walk for the dogs.

The day was perfect for travel - grey with occasional sun, temps in the 50's. Though we had planned to travel the coast road the entire way, it makes sense to head south and over the passes while the going is good. Though we planned to camp while it was still light, by the time we reached Grants Pass the sun was down and the rain had begun. We drove through the town, beautifully sparkling with Christmas lights and color, seeking non-ethanol gas that Q wants to use for the long term health of the engine. He claims it gets better mileage. Three stations later, we got ten bucks worth of regular gas and finally parked at a Good Sam rv park. It is the rv equivalent of Motel 6, but since we carry our own amenities, it was just good to stop and relax. Though rainy, I enjoyed walking the dogs and breathing southern Oregon air.

Dinner was leftover Pizzicato pizza (heated in our combination microwave and convection oven) and an awesome salad I whipped up, using the fine new cutting board surface Q has added for cooking convenience. The evening was spent searching our campsite choices in Brookings, our first planned destination. Then bedtime. We slept about ten hours. I think we need the rest.

Morning is clear and bright. And we are off again.