From Coast to Coast

Day Forty Nine - Home Sweet Home

2007-09-16T22:51:00.000-04:00

My horse is happy I am home, my dog is happy to be home and I am happy to be home...

There's no place like home...

Day Forty Eight

2007-09-16T01:27:00.000-04:00

Well, this Florida native has never been happier to see the "Welcome to Florida" sign. Today I passed through Mobile and made it to Pensacola. I spent the evening with with my Aunt & Uncle and cousins. For this weary traveller, my aunt's homemade macaroni, gravy and sausage was just what I needed for the homestretch!

Day Forty Seven

2007-09-14T16:54:00.000-04:00

Enjoying my day in Biloxi!

Day Forty Six

2007-09-13T20:48:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Biloxi! I checked "The Mississippi Queen" into another Pet Resort. She has her own TV which plays Animal Planet 24 hrs., her own Futon Doggie Bed, her window with a view, ... shall I continue?! I am here for two nights. Hopefully the weather will cooperate.

Day Forty Five

2007-09-13T12:25:00.000-04:00

Tonight I did some playing on Bourbon Street. It was sad because alot of the places did not reopen since Hurricane Katrina. Thankfully, Big Al Carson ( http://www.bigalcarson.com/ ) is still perfoming at the Funky Pirate and I got to enjoy some blues.

Day Forty Four

2007-09-13T12:11:00.000-04:00

Last night I had dinner at my favorite restaurant in Metarie and saw some old friends. It was a nice evening. The weather has not be cooperating but I did some sightseeing and shopping before the storms came in.

Day Forty Three - Part III

2007-09-10T18:44:00.000-04:00

I made it to New Orleans. I always have so much fun in this City! I have not been back since the Hurricane and I have not had a chance to drive around yet, but I have seen some of the devestation immediately surrounding the City. You can see how the cemetaries were destroyed. The French Quarter is back in action... I can't wait to get to Bourbon Street tonight. I am going to take the trolley to do some shopping at Saks & the Riverwalk!!!

Day Forty Three - Part II

2007-09-10T18:38:00.000-04:00

Passed through Lake Charles & saw a bear and then passed through Baton Rouge...

Day Forty Three

2007-09-10T13:00:00.000-04:00

I ate at my first Iron Skillet!!!

Welcome to Louisiana ...

Day Forty Two

2007-09-10T11:29:00.001-04:00

Woke up in San Antonio, had breakfast with my Aunt whom I had not seen in 25 years, drove North to Austin & Dallas then back South to Houston & spent the night in Beaumont, TX (approximately 600 miles today; over 12,000 miles trip total).

Tomorrow it's on to New Orleans, then Biloxi, Pensacola, Orlando & home!!! It's good to be back on I-10 East.

Day Forty One

2007-09-09T08:55:00.000-04:00

Spent the day at the Riverwalk taking a boat tour, shopping, taking in the sites... San Antonio is a quaint, beautiful city full of history and culture. I really enjoyed myself.

Day Forty

2007-09-07T21:20:00.000-04:00

A very, very long travel day. I went from New Mexico into Texas through El Paso all the way to San Antonio. We're talking almost 700 miles in 8 1/2 hours. The speed limit was 80 and the needle was snuggly nestled between 90mph & 100mph. Apparently they carved out the mountains to pave the way for me as you can see in the pictures (most of the highway is like that). There are only a few pictures today. It's kind of difficult to drive like that and take pictures, too. My co-pilot wasn't up to taking pictures either 'cause she was hangin' on with all four paws. Tomorrow there will be plenty of Riverwalk photos.

Indian Art

2007-09-07T01:33:00.000-04:00

Day Thirty Nine

2007-09-07T01:02:00.003-04:00

First, my co-pilot wanted her picture posted again. Second, can you believe I am still in New Mexico ...

While driving through New Mexico, I passed Fort Sumner where Billy the Kid is buried; I drove through Roswell and saw a UFO crash site and some Aliens at the Wal-Mart; and I happened upon a beautiful resort/ski area on an Indian reservation. It's hard to believe it is Southern New Mexico!

Day Thirty Eight

2007-09-06T10:00:00.000-04:00

Slight deviation from the planned course... As I left Las Cruces and headed towards El Paso I saw a sign for Santa Fe and decided to head north to visit one of my best friends whom I have not seen in ten years. I surprised her at work! Santa Fe is a unique, gorgeous artsey town. What inspiration! I want to go home and paint now. Here are few pictures from the day.

Day Thirty Seven

2007-09-05T00:12:00.000-04:00

I left Tuscon early this morning and covered alot of ground today and saw alot of sites. I visited the old Western towns of Tombstone, Bisbee & Douglas; I saw wild antelope right next to the highway; I crossed into Mexico for lunch; I saw my "last" beautiful Western sunset; I saw what I will probably look like after this rode trip; and I visited the memorial in Skeleton Canyon where Geronimo and the Apaches surrended.

Good Night, New Mexico ... I have a long, long day tomorrow to make it to San Antonio!

By the way, I am having a blast, but I have to admit the I-10East signs never looked so good!

Day Thirty Six

2007-09-03T11:36:00.000-04:00

I was able to enjoy an early morning hike in Ventana Canyon this morning (beginning at 6am) with a group from the resort. I learned alot about the native wildlife and vegetation. Tuscon is really a beautiful area. Hope you enjoy the pictures. I am off to the pool now!

Day Thirty Five

2007-09-02T20:05:00.001-04:00

Another beautiful day in Tuscon!

Did some house hunting...If I buy this one in the Catalina Mountains, I will be accepting any and all donations towards the down payment...

Tuscon Update

2007-09-02T00:56:00.000-04:00

Which lovely lady do you think will win the title of Mrs. America this week?

Look who I fell in love with ... His name is Harley!

Day Thirty Four

2007-09-01T10:18:00.001-04:00

Good Morning, Tuscon!!!

(this is the view above the room)

Day Thirty Three (part 2)

2007-08-31T23:35:00.001-04:00

It was a long driving day from Las Vegas to Tuscon. I stopped at some quaint little shops in Boulder City, passed by Lake Meade and over the Hoover Dam again, saw a horny old steer along the way, and checked in by dusk. It was too dark to really see the view, but I can tell it will be gorgeous in daylight. The hotel is built into the side of a mountain, there are golf courses, waterfalls, hiking trails.... I can't wait!!! I need a good night's rest 'cause tomorrow will be full of adventures.

I hope everyone enjoy's a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend...

PS - Hummie was feeling left out, so I had to include a picture of him, too! Hope you enjoy the pictures.

Day Thirty Three

2007-08-31T09:04:00.000-04:00

Sunrise in Las Vegas...

Sunset in Tuscon!!!

Leaving Las Vegas
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DsWLQ4gl4k )

Go Yanks!

2007-08-30T23:26:00.000-04:00

Red Sox got broom'd in the Bronx...

Day Thirty Two

2007-08-30T22:23:00.003-04:00

Leaving Las Vegas...

It's my last evening here and I am sad to go. I was blessed with a beautiful sunset this evening and the opportunity to see some more wildlife. How's this for being close to nature. This little guy was right outside my room. Good thing he didn't bite me!

Day Thirty One

2007-08-30T14:27:00.000-04:00

I do not want to bore you with Las Vegas stories and pictures, but just to let you know I am having a wonderful time and could never, ever get bored out here! I have been catching up on relaxation time, me time, pool time, spa time... Those long twelve hour driving days have caught up with me, but I am certainly feeling great now! I went to the Bellagio tonight and enjoyed dinner at Prime (UNBELIEVEABLE steakhouse), watched Phil Ivey loosing $1.2 at a crap table (hope he got even) and had a little fun playing! Just call me Lady Luck...

Day Thirty

2007-08-30T14:14:00.000-04:00

Greetings Friends,

My "mommy" slept in, relaxed by the pool, did laundry, and got her hair done. She needed a day off, so I volunteered to post on her blog for her. She gave me the camera and a backpack with plenty of water and I took some pictures of the local wildlife. Hope you enjoy them!

Paws out...

"THE Dog"

Day Twenty Nine

2007-08-27T19:16:00.000-04:00

Another beautiful day and night in paradise...

Enjoying the pool and the scenery!

The picture of the moon over the lake is part of the resort. I feel sorry for all of these rich people who live here...lol...Celine Dion being one of them. I heard her house is for sale...hint hint ;)

Day Twenty Eight

2007-08-27T11:45:00.000-04:00

Still in Vegas and loving it...

I had a great day just relaxing and sightseeing and shopping. No really great pictures to put up for today. I have extended my stay until Friday and plan on taking lots more photos. Keep checking...

Thanks for all of your comments and thoughts...

Have a great week!

Day Twenty Seven

2007-08-26T10:46:00.000-04:00

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas...

I am really enjoying myself! Friday night I went to Cafe Martorano at the Rio for some dancing. Steve Martorano is pictured above. You know, he has his picture taken with all of the rockstars and just had to have a picture taken with me...lol

Saturday I enjoyed Red Rock Canyon, the Hoover Dam & Lake Meade. I really love Vegas. I enjoy the beautiful country and mountains with the convenience of being a half hour from all of the action on the Strip. Mmmmm, Vegas may be getting another resident soon....

Day Twenty Six

2007-08-24T10:02:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Las Vegas...

Hey Big Boy...

2007-08-23T23:10:00.000-04:00

Day Twenty Five (part 2)

2007-08-23T22:31:00.000-04:00

We're here....

After a long drive through the dessert with temperatures reaching in excess of 105, we have settled in to our cozy room for the evening. You will see my travel companion enjoying a Starbuck's doggie latte along the way and then getting the room key after we checked in....

Day Twenty Five

2007-08-23T10:21:00.000-04:00

Viva, viva Las Vegas!!!!!!!!

I am leaving San Diego after a restful two days and am ready for some hot times and action in Vegas, Baby......

Goodbye, San Diego.

Day Twenty Four

2007-08-22T22:56:00.000-04:00

Hello from sunny & beautiful San Diego! I am staying at resort/spa and haven taken advantage of all of the facilities today including getting an awesome message. Tomorrow... viva Las Vegas!!! I am heading to Vegas tomorrow for five days! Yeah, Baby...

Day Twenty Three

2007-08-21T19:47:00.000-04:00

Leaving Los Angeles...Hello San Diego! Just stopped at the Vista Point along the way near Camp Pendelton and took some fun pictures. Enjoy!

Day Twenty Two

2007-08-21T14:10:00.000-04:00

Today was a great day in L.A. I relaxed by the pool all day then went to the Yankees game. Yes, there was an extra "angel" in the stadium last night. The picture of me at the stadium was taken immediately before A-Rod hit a home run. That was him in the background at bat.

After the game, I had some Pink. Shame on you for what you were thinking... I went to the famous hotbdog stand in Beverly Hills. Yes, there was a new star in Beverly Hills last night.... ME!!!!

Day Twenty-One

2007-08-19T13:18:00.000-04:00

Greetings from Los Angeles...

Yesterday was a long driving day from San Francisco to LA. I did not get in until late last night. I took the scenic route which was alot longer but the views were amazing.

Today is Sunday, the day of rest, and I plan on doing just that. I had a wonderful buffet at the hotel, am doing laundry, going to the gym and laying by the pool all in time for a 4pm check-out!

Heading to San Diego this evening...

Enjoy your day & the rest of the weekend. I will update with some pictures later.

Day Twenty

2007-08-18T13:03:00.000-04:00

San Francisco...

It is another beautiful day here. I was able to go to the gym and enjoy the morning scenery at Fisherman's Wharf including the amusement provided by the sea lions at Pier 39. I would love to stay here for another day or two, but in light of the "dog episode" yesterday, it's time we move on. We are lucky Alcatraz (pictured above) is no longer a functioning prison. Meanwhile, perhaps if I was bit by one of the sea lions, their owner would not be trying to sue me already...

Next stops...L.A., Laguana Beach, San Diego

Thanks for your concerns regarding the loss of my friend and my dog bites.

Day Nineteen

2007-08-18T00:55:00.001-04:00

Welcome to San Francisco!

Don't mean to be crabby, but I did not have the greatest of days...

I was informed at 9am that one of my closest friends passed away this morning. I feel pretty numb today.

Then to make matters worse, when I checked into the hotel and got into my room, the bellman entered to bring in the bags and my "travel companion" ran out the door and got into a dog fight with two dogs in the hall. I got bit by the two dogs and spent the afternoon in the emergency room. The dogs are all fine and I am okay, just alittle sore and have to keep my hand and arm wrapped.

Tomorrow is another day...

Day Eighteen

2007-08-17T02:19:00.000-04:00

Well, it is 11pm and I am finally in my room after a long, long travel day. I made it from just north of Portland, OR to Sacramento, CA...approximately 700 miles. Here are some pictures of Portland and some of the beautiful scenery along the way.

I made it to Sacramento just in time to visit Cal Expo, the harness track. I got to ride in the starting car/gate at the track. It was very exciting to see the horses so close and so intense at the start and during the entire race!

Tomorrow, San Francisco, here I come!

Day Seventeen

2007-08-16T11:10:00.000-04:00

America the beautiful...

Vancouver is a lovely city which I enjoy very much; however, I decided to return to the States. I made it just north of Portland, Oregon yesterday. It looks like I will be taking the Southern route with stops in California, Tuscon and of course, VEGAS, Baby!!!! (Of course, that can all change at the drop of a dime ;) )

It feels good to be South of the Border!!!

Day Sixteen

2007-08-14T21:35:00.000-04:00

Oh Canada!!!

Made it to Vancouver just in time for afternoon tea. Another great, vibrant city which I am enjoying very much.

I have still not decided regarding the Northern or Southern route. I will keep you posted. Thanks for all of your input, especially yours, Special Stakes. You get an A plus plus!!!

Afternoon tea and a nap...nothing's better!

Day Fifteen (part II)

2007-08-14T00:00:00.001-04:00

More sightseeing, shopping and dining... I love Seattle! Enjoying myself before I hit the road again early tomorrow morning...

Day Fifteen

2007-08-13T14:13:00.000-04:00

Seattle again...

It is a beautiful day here so my travel companion did not need her raincoat even though she was prepared. I did some sightseeing, rode the monorail, more shopping, playing with a swiny jester, posing with a pig and having a ball...

Day Fourteen

2007-08-12T23:14:00.000-04:00

Seattle... what can I say. It is my second day here and what better city to hang my hat for a few days! I love this city! It is a combination of San Fransisco, a mini New York, and a few other favorites. Between the weather, the shopping, the restaurants and the people, I really enjoy visiting Seattle. I visited Pike's Market and the Space Needle. Here are some photos I hope you enjoy...

Day Thirteen

2007-08-11T18:56:00.000-04:00

Well, I made it to Seattle...4,395 miles and thirteen days later...

Washington is also a beautiful state. I passed Priest Rapids along I-90. Here are some pictures. What spectacular scenery!!!

Day Twelve

2007-08-11T10:31:00.000-04:00

Another driving day. I woke up in Montana and hated to leave. I really love that State. It is absolutely beautiful and the people are wonderful. Thank you!

It is a long drive to Seattle, but there are some breathtaking views along the way in Northern Montana and Northern Idaho. I did get to see the sunset in Washington State. Beautiful....

I made it halfway between Spokane and Seattle last night. I stopped at a little motel, got a great night's rest (it is really cold here at night...great sleeping weather), and am up bright and early today (which is really Day 13 I think) to head into Seattle!!!

Thanks again for everyone's comments. Keep them coming! I appreciate hearing from you!

Day Eleven

2007-08-11T09:54:00.000-04:00

MONTANA, the State of my dreams. For as long as I can remember, although I had never visited Montana, I wanted to live on a mountain in Montana, have a ton of animals, drive a truck, and head into town once a month for my sundries and people would say "here comes that old crazy woman who lives with and talks to only her animals". I got my truck and I got my animals all I need is land in Montana. Well, after seeing Montana, I think it may happen. I LOVE that state and was greated with such a warm welcome! Montana, get ready!!!! Then I can be named Toni Montana!

I stayed in a little town named Dillon. The scenery is so beautiful there. Some friends I know that live there have 4-wheelers and take them into the mountains and hike, view the wildlife, swim in lakes with beautiful beaches... I will definitely return to spend some time there and enjoy all of those activities.

I drove through Butte, a quaint mining town, and then through Missoula, a funky, high energy college town. Montana, get ready for some frequent Toni visits...

Day Ten

2007-08-11T09:34:00.000-04:00

Well, I am actually writing this entry and the next few entries on Day 13. I need to get caught up. I know it is hard to believe since I am Superwoman, but it has been difficult driving, taking care of the dog, taking pictures, visiting sights, meeting new people, doing laundry, answering emails, taking care of personal stuff, and alot of other tasks...lol...But, I am up early (it's 6am here in Washington State), it's a beautiful cold morning, and I am ready to fill you all in on my current adventures.

Day Ten was spent in Salt Lake City as was Day 9. It is a beautiful, clean, easy to manage city. The people are really nice and friendly. It was a great place to hang my hat (and yes, as you can tell from the pictures, I do love to wear my hats...) There was a convention in town and I had a hard time finding a room. The only room left at one hotel was a large suite and the desk give it to me at a standard rate with a AAA discount. What a score that was! That made it easy to stay there two nights.

On the drive to Salt Lake City from Denver, as I said in an earlier post, I saw will llama in an abandoned gas station. I also passed right near the area of the miner tragedy near Price. They and their families are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. I saw all of the drilling/Haliburton trucks on the road going to the area. A new capitol building is being built right on the top of the city. It is a beautiful sight. Looks like another familiar building but I can't put my finger on which one...lol...

Update...

2007-08-09T20:59:00.000-04:00

Taking a quick break....

I made it through Idaho and am in Montana now. Enjoy the welcome sign pictures.

Please note, unfortunately due to the acts of one person, I am now forced to moderate your comments. I appreciate your comments and input, keep them coming, just be patient and give me time to review them and post them. No need to post them twice. I am sure you all understand.

Kisses~

Toni

Day Nine

2007-08-08T18:09:00.000-04:00

Driving, driving, driving.... it was a long travel day. I left my motel in Idaho Springs, Colorado around noon and headed straight for Salt Lake City, Utah. Colorado is beautiful!!!! I drove through the Continnental Divide, Vail, Breckenridge, and all of the other ski villages. They are just as beautiful in the Summer as they are in the winter. The mountains and scenery are absolutely breathtaking. Around every turn and over every mountain, just when you think it can't get any prettier, there is another canyon or valley or mountain more awesome than the last. The pictures cannot even do it justice. I saw wild llamas in Utah, a wild mountain-goat on the side of the road in Colorado, and tons and tons of horses along the way, too ( which made me miss my little guy (my horse) all the more). He's probably happy that I am not riding for 6 weeks....

I am staying in Salt Lake City again tonight and will head to Butte Montana early tomorrow (Friday) morning. Another long driving day ahead, so I am resting up today!

Thanks for checking in...

Update

2007-08-08T12:11:00.000-04:00

Sorry I have not posted in awhile. I am in Salt Lake City. Spent ten hours driving yesterday. This morning I am doing laundry and have a nail appointment (yes, the domestic Toni on road does exist....). Anyhow, I have some awesome pictures and will update the blog later today...

Kisses~

Toni

We're not in Kansas Anymore, Toto...

2007-08-06T19:14:00.000-04:00

Day Eight (part 2)

2007-08-06T19:07:00.000-04:00

I made it to Denver! I went downtown and had lunch. Now I am in Idaho Springs and enjoying the beautiful scenery! This is really God's country here in the Mountains. I love it! Here are a few recent photos...

Day Eight

2007-08-06T08:48:00.000-04:00

Well, it is week #2. I left Kansas City yesterday afternoon heading towards Denver. It is really a long drive (about 10-11 hours). The scenery is nothing but rolling hills and green, green farm country. It is beautiful, but a little repetitious after about the first hour... I made it as far as a little town called Colby. I have about three more hours until Denver. I should be there by noon. I can't wait! Rocky Mountain High here I come...

Thanks for checking in with us today! Hope everyone has a great week! I will keep you posted...

Kisses~

Toni

Day Seven

2007-08-05T12:44:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon~

Above is a picture of the Busch Stadium. When I was in St. Louis, I would have loved to see a Cardinal game but they were not there. The welsom to Kansas is not the best picture, but it's on a bridge and I could not stop and was doing about 70 mph! That's Kansas City.

Last night was fun. I went to dinner with my brother and his wife. I have not seen them in about 2 years. It was really nice. Slept in this morning. I think I am going to check out now and hit the road. Denver is at least nine hours away.

Talk to you soon~

Toni

Day Six

2007-08-04T12:48:00.001-04:00

I guess I should start putting days and dates so as to not be confusing since the close of Week #1 is getting nearer. It is Saturday, August 4th and I am leaving St. Louis. It is a real beautiful city and I will definitely be back again.

I am going to Kansas City, Kansas City here I come.... It is about a four hour drive from here. I will be there Saturday night and Sunday and probably even Monday night. The next leg will be a nine hour drive from KC to Denver. That is planned for Tuesday. I am not sure what kind of pictures I will have along the way to KC or what exciting news I will have. My brother is there so there will be some "family" stuff. If you don't hear from me, don't worry. I will update you as soon as anything interesting comes along...

Thanks for checking in...

We're outta here...................................

Day Five (part 2)

2007-08-03T22:20:00.001-04:00

Made it to St. Louis. It is a really great city! I love it here and will definitely be back. I am staying at the Riverfront. I was able to make it in before dark and took a picture of the Arch and the Riverfront sign. It's great because all of the hotels are pet friendly. I am off to dinner now!

Day Five

2007-08-03T17:32:00.000-04:00

On the road again...

I have checked out of my resort, picked up the dog at her pet resort (by the way, my casino host comp'd her boarding and gave her her own player's card), and we are heading to St. Louis. I am taking a driving break and wanted to send the current pictures. Probably nothing else going on today except checking in in St. Louis and relaxing.

See you tomorrow...

Day Four

2007-08-03T17:21:00.000-04:00

Thursday was somewhat uneventful in Tunica. It was a dreary, ominous kind of day but was great for lounging around the room and playing in the casino. I had some fun and won some gas money, too!

Friday is a long driving day. I am heading to St. Louis. My plans are to stay in St. Louis, Kansas City and then to Denver. I am not sure how long I will stay in each city. My brother lives in Kansas City, so obviously I will be there for awhile.

No pictures today...the casino does not allow cameras.

Stayed tuned for more later...

Thanks for checking in!

Day Three

2007-08-02T08:46:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday morning, I woke up in Memphis, TN and spent the morning with the King. I went to Graceland. What a great experience. His mansion was absolutely gorgeous! There were displays of all of his cars and planes and records and clothes. It was a great experience! You can actually feel his presence. What a man Elvis was and his legend certainly lives on.

After Graceland, I drove to Tunica, Mississippi. I boarded the dog at a pet resort for some pampering and checked myself into a beautiful casino/resort for a few days of pampering and playing before hitting the road again.

I will keep you posted!

Day Two

2007-08-01T10:50:00.000-04:00

Alot of driving...

Today I made it from Gainseville, FL to Nashville, TN just in time to see the Grand Ole Opry House. Then, I was on to Memphis for a good night's sleep.

It is Day Three and I have a visit to Graceland scheduled this morning. Can't wait to see the King's Mansion & toys...

All is going well. I miss everyone. Thanks for your thoughts and comments...

Devil Goin' to Georgia

2007-07-31T09:07:00.000-04:00

I have not taken any photos yet on this road trip venture, so I decided to treat you with an old photo that was in my computer. Here's a photo of the Devil that goin' to Georgia today!

Day One

2007-07-31T09:02:00.000-04:00

Well, it is Tuesday morning and I woke up in Gainseville, FL. I got a late start leaving Deerfield Beach yesterday, but I wanted to at least get on the road. I made it here in about four hours which is pretty good time. My dog and I had enough driving for one afternoon/evening.

I was up early, worked out, took her for a long walk, and now we are hitting the road for a long driving day. Georgia is my next stop, maybe even further. No pictures to post yet. Nothing terribly exciting going on yet.

Thanks for checking in on us!

The Sunday Before...

2007-07-29T14:37:00.000-04:00

I have been making the necessary arrangements and been packing since I have been home over the weekend. Looks like I will be leaving Monday or Tuesday of this week. I will keep everyone posted as to my whereabouts and adventures...

Getting Ready to Go

2007-07-24T08:03:00.000-04:00

I'm getting ready for a ROAD TRIP. Heading cross country from Florida to California and back...may be coming to a town near you! Come on back often for my itinerary and progress!!

Kisses,
Toni