Okay, postings have been a bit sporadic but rest assured that in the coming days a detailed report with photos will be provided as there are an array of exciting developments on the road. I also want to share a few information about interesting restaurants and attractions discovered on our fall 2014 adventure.
At this time the schedule and technical difficulties only allow for a brief summary.
Lets see, after leaving Lake of the Ozarks we rolled south to pick up Route 66 just to the west of Devils Elbow. We were looking for some fall color to dress up a few photos, and were also evaluating a GPS based Route 66 tour program.
It was a leisurely drive through stunning landscapes. Indicative of just how leisurely the drive was is the fact that we made the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba just after three in the afternoon; about 130 miles in five hours that included a pleasant lunch at the Route 66 Diner.
Shortly after arrival the Route 66 family reunion that included Dean Kennedy, Frank Kocevar, Mike and Sharon Ward, my dearest friend, Joe Sonderman, and a few others moved to Missouri Hick Barbecue. Laughter, stories, and good food set the mood for the rest of the evening.
The Wagon Wheel Motel was ground zero for a birthday party for Joe Loesch of the Road Crew, vintage cars, a bonfire, and warm cider to keep the fall chill at bay. It was the type of event that exemplifies the essence of a gathering of Route 66 enthusiasts.
On Saturday morning, after breakfast at Shelly’s (excellent!) with Mike and Sharon War, Jane Reed, and my dearest friend, we moved to the main event. Simply put, if Norman Rockwell organized events, Cuba Fest would be his baby.
What a wonderful day! To top off a spectacular day there was dinner, the music of the Road Crew, wine, and friends at the Belmont Winery east of town.
Sunday started with coffee, fresh pumpkin bread, and inspirational conversation shared with Connie Echols, the proprietor at the Wagon Wheel Motel. Then it was off to Route 66 State Park for my presentation at their annual open house, and a meeting with Tommy Pike of the Missouri Route 66 Association, Rich Dinkela, Joe Sonderman, and Mike Ward.
We are closing out the day, and the weekend, at the Munger Moss in Lebanon, after another tremendous dinner, and wonderful conversation shared with Bob and Ramona Lehman. ,