The big question was this: would later but just as early be better? The later, doing the drive in September rather than August. The just as early, starting at the earlier time of day. The better, would the traffic be lighter.
The morning started cool (in the 40s in Midway, just fine in the Morris) but clear for the rendezvous at the mall. A large group of people and cars arrived attracted by the prospect of beautiful colors and tasty burgers. The weather couldn’t have been nicer, and after some chatting and instruction handout we were on our way.
We managed to keep the group pretty well together for the drive to the pit stop, though we lost Keith Mott to some possible ignition woes. Luckily Steen warned us that there would be some parking issues at our usual stop, so we adjusted as best we could. Lost a few members as we prepped for the drive over, but all made it to the lunch spot safe and sound.
The drive over was lovely. Not traffic free, but certainly much better than in years past. We were greeted by some lovely fall colors and far fewer parked cars. Jon, Laura, and I even managed to test out Jon’s new Volvo a bit on the much less busy downhill section.
When we arrived at Big Springs Park we were welcomed by Roger and Jill Davis cooking up a passel of burgers and dogs. A huge thanks to them for their culinary endeavors, everyone went away well fed and happy.
On the way out Maggie the Mighty Morris Minor led a small group up through Pine Canyon to the Guardsman Road. Beautiful, fresh tarmac and lovely fall colors made the steep drive worthwhile. (And then I drove Laura back to Jon’s new Volvo with a can of gas — aparently Empty does mean empty.) A successfull drive!
Attending were: John & Barbara Progess, Barry & Denise Blackett, Dave Spendlove, Jon & Laura Hermance, Jerry Bletzacker, Paul Colman, Frank & Vicki Mousley, Merv Brown & Karen Carlile, Paul Carslsen, Paul Jaroch, Pat & Donna Rich, Kent & Cory Jensen, Clayton & Sharon Merchant, Darin & Elaine Graber, Steen & Arlene Sorensen, Martin Van Nood & Gabriel Vigil, Cindy Wardell & Connie Hagen, Grant Clayton & Hannah Andersen, Kevin & Marie Cowan, Andy Houston, Robert Kelsch, Bob & Dixie Jahnke, Colin Jahnke & friend, Drew Frink, Larry & Margaret Farrington, Rory & Rita Mahony, Rich Weyland & Linda, Roger & Jill Davis, Keith Mott
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpJqMzL4rrM
