We packed only the bare necessities and drove into the night.
,Avoiding highways and byways, only taking local and state routes, we
took our time meandering around the back country roads.
There was no hurry, no place to go and no time limit to get there.
1st stop a water garden farm.
Lots of pond plants, fountains, liners and more.
Being late in the season their available stock had been picked over.
One pond did have some pretty lotus and lillies still worthy of spending a moment
to toke up and watch the wild world go by.
When we stopped and got out of the car the turtles and frogs jumped to flee the scene.
After adding some additional nitrogen to the local flora we drove on.
I'm sure no one saw them doo their business because I watch their back.
I trust they were watching mine.
A last min call to make hotel reservations was successful although somewhat painful.
The bait and switch tactics are strong in that industry and consistancy
is constantly inconsistent.
After hearing several different versions of broken english and listening to multiple insincere apologies
we had reservations for the night in a smoking, pet friendly king room.
One mile from the hotel the cell rings and we are told that they had made a mistake and
they did not have king/pet rooms available. They were kind enough to offer a double room
for a "additional fee".
Another hour on the smartphone and a call direct to the hotel chain and we were
confirmed for a king smoking pet room.
A 30 min drive and a few tokes later we arrived at the new destination.
Ed was working the front desk.
He was slow in helping the guest already checking in so my wait was
obviously going to be lengthy.
After greeting me Ed informed me that they did not have a king pet friendly room.
My expressions of disappointment and displasure prompted Ed to contact the manager.
When Ed returned he offered me a double room that was scheduled for remodel.
It had a small tear in the carpet. I could have this room for $20 less than the original
reservation if I wanted it. Ok.
Every time I start with nothing I always come back with something.
Even if it's only an account of the entertainment and follies that were encountered.
Wandering around aimlessly with no place to go can sometimes lead to
eye opening and rewarding experiences.