Itinerant Air-Cooled

A day later than planned due to total exhaustion and a kitty that did a protest runaway yesterday. She is back and I have over 300 miles under my and Elwood's new tires and lots of weight. Was planning on driving all the way to Bay area tonight after a stop for quick takeout and coffee in Santa Barbara. But after heading inland at Gaviota beach, those that know this coast area know about the strong winds, lots of summer traffic unlike last november, can't say that I blame them, it is beautiful. I timed it to be around that area for sunset. As Elwood was struggling to get up the hill,3rd gear with wind whipping him around but not out of his lane , I get red/blue lighted and up to the bus on both sides come the bright flash lights easy to see inside as my curtains are down and he is loaded to the gills. One officer tries to open my passenger door and I say DON'T you will spill my stuff out (computer, hand bag etc.) I opened it for him after rearranging things. He asked where I was headed and I proudly replied "The Arctic Circle" He then said "M'am have you been drinking?" No, I said just this coffee and vanilla malt I got in Santa Barbara, he then asked if I had any warrants or ever been arrested and I said no and yes-for what?. DUI many years ago. Figure it best to tell the truth but don't think it stays on your record. Anyway he wished me a good trip and followed me 8 more miles to Andersons splitpea place and a Hotel. I've decided to chill in til morning and fix the taillight. Day one ~This is going to be fun

So far so good. I will be following your journey.

Yes It is so far so good as Elwood feels stronger than I. Your offer to find and ship parts that are needed to keep our quest possible is overwhelming Steve and I will share your email and cell number to those worthy of such a gift of sharing.

My first gas stop was at where the drop-off for parts originaly was to be. It would have been really scary for me at the time. It will be ok in July to meet you for the exchange. Sorry for the promise, but don't like LA type night places.

woo hoo! Barb, you're on the road! I'll be following your adventures. I've been pulled over on the same stretch of road for weaving in the wind. Have fun. Onward northward!

Good for you Barb!!! I hope you and Elwood have a safe and wonderfull voyage. If you guys are going to have a little get together before you leave the Bay area, please let me know. I would very much like to see you all off on your trip in person.

I think John Muir said it best at the end of the VW engine sounds tape, so I will borrow it from him.........
"Love and good road"

barb,

Good luck and have a safe trip.

Awesome, Barb. You're going to have a great time. I wish all the best for all you guys. Sorry I can't do it with you. But I'll be following your adventures as you keep posting.

This time tomorrow we'll be hittin' the trail too. Anyone in SF who can should head out to Ocean Beach tonite for a farewell meeting.

A great start! Already go the cops on your trail! I bet it felt good to tell him you're going to the "Arctic Circle", huh? Probably got a glazed over look at that point...

good on ya, Barb! Honk a little honk when you drive though Vancouver! I'll be thinking about you!

Good Luck!

Jeremy

Thanks for all the well wishes. This now is day three and yesterday found me checking out the tail-light and as expected found it to be impossible to make wrong ~ jerks! don,t even wan,t to go there.

I traveled the next 300 or so miles past fertile central California fields full of produce being planted and picked by hundreds of migrant workers , Thanks to them for making that possible. Lots of happy cows obviously additioning for cheese commercials

Had a stressfull climb up a grade out of San Luis Obispo was in 2nd gear and far off to the right of the road. Know that I had way too much weight in bus for my 1600 engine to stay happy. Pulled off about 50 miles up the road and let the oil settle down. Looked 1/2 qt low so added it and went on my way determined to make the bay area before dark. I did and went to chinese dinner with my daughter. Disapointed at not the food but NO FORTUNE COOKIE

Have a small oil leak I think is due to overfill and not worried about anything serious.

Had the pleasure of giving DjEept a ride from his last day of work in San Rafael to his get a way home in SF. Drove by Ocean Beach and saw Sailorkriss's bus but no-body. Had to get back and organize Elwood for early am departure from California.

Lots still getting done and stuff setteling to find its place. Will keep posting when I can. Will take a while to get into the no job place, and just feel the open rroad.

Barb and Elwood

Sorry I missed you guys, I was out walking on the beach when you passed by.
Have a most excellent trip, and when you pass thru on your way home I hope you can stop by and share your memories

Safe travels! Hope you can keep the updates coming...

My prayers are with the spirit of Elwood as he pluckily tackles the road ahead. I am sure Elwood is happy to trundle about the planet given plenty of time a spritz of oil and a dash of love.
Colin