It has been a while since we have traveled west. I have always found it romantic to follow the setting sun as it makes its way toward the Pacific. Growing up in Washington State, heading west keeps my bearings in order but also brings up feelings of nostalgia like heading home from a trip or adventure. Turning west this time from South Dakota brought the family to Casper, WY to visit my Aunt Jane.
We crossed the North Platte River, had a homemade meal, a great visit with family and attended a free concert in the park in Casper. The musical group was Aquile (pronounced A-quill). He is a local WY musician who appeared on the TV program “The Voice”. We enjoyed the cool evening with great tunes in the center of town. Check him out if you’re looking for some new music.
In the morning we gassed up Van Solo ($3.49/gal-thank you WY) and followed the North Platte to Ft. Laramie. This National Historic Site sits at the confluence of the Laramie and North Platte Rivers. This fort was a vital resupply stop along the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails in support of the great western expansion. We took a brief, self-guided tour of the grounds and visited many of the remaining buildings.
Fun fact:
The fort houses the oldest standing building in Wyoming.
Nebraska
As we continued east into Nebraska we followed the Oregon Trail in reverse and stopped at geographic lighthouses, such as Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock that were used to guide the way for those early settlers.
Our camping accommodations during this stretch were amazing. One night found us at Papa Moon Winery and Cidery where Kandra and I were able to have a date night while the kids prepped dinner. It was at the Diamond B Horse Motel another night where we learned the Nebraska state slogan, “honestly, it’s not for everyone!” That night while watching a spectacular sunset from the roof of our van we saw fireflies for the first time.
Sunken Gardens
Lincoln City, NE
Our last night in Nebraska we stayed at Scatter Joy Acres in Omaha. After meeting the owner, Joy, we discovered all of the great work she does in the community with the animals she has rescued and the petting zoo that she has created. The girls really enjoyed themselves, so much so that they volunteered to wake up early the next day and help with farm chores which included bottle-feeding a baby kangaroo!
Though our time in Nebraska was brief, it was also profound for me. I was able to connect with distant family over lunch, coffee, and an afternoon of swimming. Thank you to my Omaha family for making the time to meet us-we loved it!
Sounds like a special, memorable visit with family Andrew! Also, another date night?!
Love it! I can’t wait to hear what’s next!