Two year California anniversary

January 19, 2009 – 9:02 pm

Tomorrow, January 20th 2009, marks my two year California anniversary. That’s right, exactly two years ago I coasted into California with no money, no place to live, and no clue what I was getting myself into. I started in NY and had driven clear across the country in just under four days, dodging three winter storms in the process.

So what do I have to show for myself two years later? Well, I do have a place to live, but I still don’t have any money. I think I’ve figured out the whole California life style thing, but I’m pretty sure that it’s not really for me. I think I’ve been clear about this in the past.

I’ve been thinking about my cross country drive a lot lately. I recall during the actual drive it was rather boring and I’m pretty sure I recall having many unhealthy conversations with myself, yet I really want to do it again –  but in reverse this. I want to take the time to actually see what’s out, talk to a few strangers, and get lost a bit. I want an adventure this time.

This was my route last time:

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It was pretty much a straight shot on route 80, except for a short detour to Boulder, CO. I needed to get to California as soon as possible, so I took the most direct route. On the way back I want to try something different. Maybe something like this:

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[UPDATE: Just found out that a good friend of mine will be living in Wichita, KS after he returns from serving in Afghanistan. I've adjusted the travel route accordingly. Note to Reid: This means I get to drive through St. Louis and Kansas City now. The BBQ better be good!]

It would be a significantly longer drive (something like 15 23 hours longer), but I would get to drive through a few areas that I’d really like to see. New Mexico has always fascinated me and Nashville, TN has always been a city that I’ve wanted to visit. Other random stops in there (San Diego, Myrtle Beach, Philadelphia, Oklahoma City Wichita, Denver) would be to visit friends and family.

You may also notice that the end point of the above map is Boston. I would really like for Boston to my final destination. Sighhh…maybe someday.

So, who wants to go on a road trip?