The gleaming blue Chevy Traverse was delivered Friday morning, thanks to Connie Burke from Driving the Midwest. George Schuch, the driver who dropped off the car, went over all the bells and whistles of the vehicle. I was more fascinated by George, who sported a pair of hearing aids and told me about his love for his job, driving cars all over the Midwest for manufacturers. “The best part of my job is getting to meet people like you and traveling all over,” said George. “And I get to drive some really nice cars, like a Rolls Royce!” When I told my husband about George, he was jealous. “I’d love a job like that– getting to drive cars all day long.”
At first, I was a little worried about being able to load stuff for seven people for a week-long trip down to Waco, Texas, but everything fit into the Traverse. My wetsuit, heater and barefoot shorts fit into the cargo space in the back. I was especially proud of my daughter, Lauren, who initially packed a large bag stuffed to the hilt; and then pared everything down into one tiny bag. For a girl who likes her clothes, she gamely agreed to go light all week.
The seven of us piled in– the hubby, the kids, my friend Sharon and her son, Nicky. Without a doubt, the most valuable accessory in the Traverse was the full outlet. We ran our laptop, Game Boys, and phones during the nine hour drive. The Traverse was equipped with two sunroofs, but with the heat bearing down at over 100 degrees as we neared Missouri, the black out shades were a welcome relief. When the rain hit, we enjoyed the view:
We drove 538 miles to Joplin, Missouri and settled for the night at the Marriott Residence Inn. We kicked back with dinner at the pool and relaxed in the hot tub. In Joplin, folks are still recovering from the devastation caused by the tornado. Lauren connected with one of the residents, who is still living at the Residence Inn as her home is being rebuilt.
We’re piling in the Traverse once again this morning, for another 500+ miles to Waco. Onward!