Day 15. We woke up early in Reno. It had been a tough night for the girls and myself. I found myself reading, trying to fall back asleep, at 3 am. I heard Ellie tiptoe across the room and whisper, “Mama? I’m worried ravens are going to get into the car. They’re smart and can rip the tape and plastic.” I giggled, remembering the raven at Canyonlands that broke into the car near ours to steal their food. After I reassured her that there are absolutely no ravens in Reno (that may not be true), she curled up between Zak and I and spent the rest of night worry free.
We woke up early, filled up on a good breakfast and were on the road again by 7. The drive was smooth. Except when we took a break to switch drivers, fill up on gas, and use the restrooms. Someone had gone diarrhea all over the floor of the restroom. That was gross. And perplexing.
We ate a lunch of leftover peanut butter, meat sticks, and Cheetos while driving across Nevada. We listened to podcasts, played Mario Kart, did crossword puzzles, and took care of some of the the logistical things that could be taken care of in a noisy car.
We pulled into Salt Lake City around 4 and were blown away by the compassion of Kimpton. They swept the non-essentials for the night into a secure area, emptying our car for us, and making sure we were comfortable. We checked in with the nicest women who assured us that they would do anything for us during our stay. Then we walked into a gorgeous suite. They had set up the perfect glamping site for the girls. A tent, a lantern, a gourmet s’mores station, fresh berries and whipped cream, a pet goldfish for the night, and a brand new box of colored pencils for Zoe. How unreal?! Kimpton cares so much about their customers, we feel like we are truly part of the Kimpton family.
After a delightful wine hour, we went to the same brewery we went to last year when we were in town, Squatters. Then we took some time to stroll through downtown Salt Lake City. We went to the Morman Temple and admired the beautiful flowers and landscaping. I remembered how much I really like this city. It is so peaceful, people are happy and friendly, it is clean, and feels really safe.
We were approached by a young man asking if we had spare change. Ellie later told me that I should of given him money, then he would of maybe had enough to find a warm place to sleep. The city has a program where they have turned old parking meters into collection stations for homeless charities. I emptied my coins into the next one we saw, which made Ellie really happy.
We are sleeping very comfortably tonight with bellies full of s’mores. We have been reminded throughout the day of the kindness of our friends. We have just a few more (long) states to drive through, but then we’ll be in a cozy home. Life is good. Really good.
Good evening girls ( of course mom and dad too) I am so glad that you have made it to the Kimptons. What a wonderful caring hotel this is. No wonder you love them so much. The ” Campgrounds” and s’mores station is blowing my mind. How much kinder can a hotel be? I am so glad to see the smiles on their faces. Even a goldfish, who would even think of that?
I am so glad that you all are able to rest comfortabley tonight.
I continue to keep you all in my prayers as you make your way home.
Have a wonderful night. Sweetie Dreams.
Love,
Joanie Kenning (CG)
Your kind replies and messages have been so meaningful. Thank you so much. Our house is safe, we have neighbors keeping an eye on it and the thief didn’t get any personal information. We are overwhelmed with the support and love being sent our way. Hope all is well with you are you are enjoying summer!
Thank you. I really mean it. I am so upset about what happened to you and the rest of your family. I am appalled at what they did to your car and your spirits. I am so glad your neighbors are there for you. I was just trying to think of something I could do to help you. So glad they did not get your personal imformation. But very sad that tney have all your memories from taking your camera.
Our summer has been consumed with cleaning out my husbands fathers house since he has moved into Cantata assisted living. And his Mom’s passing last September. It is Mark and mine’s job to pack down this house, donate most of the household items, clean and prepare the house to put up for sale. The house is in Berwyn and the town of Berwyn is a really tough town to sell a home in. But, we are hanging in there. This will take all summer and we hope to have the house on the market by the end of August. This is why I love following your blogs because I feel like I am on vacation when I read your posts. It is so wonderful.
I wish you all the best as you travel home. Give the girls a hug for me.
Love,
Joanie (CG)