Breathe——breathe in and breathe out——-breathe in and breathe out——-Be grateful for the gift of that breath. Be grateful for the simple, ordinary things. Be grateful for the people who fill your life with grace.
As I think of the all the things to be thankful for, none of them would be possible without the gift of that breathe. This fall has been a time of being thankful.
This fall I traveled 6,000 miles and seven weeks to the top of Washington, to the bottom of California, and through the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Salt Lake City, and home bound to North Dakota. I visited many relatives and friends along the way and this included two weddings. I witnessed some spectacular scenery, had to do a four hour detour because of the forest fire on Interstate 5, and totally enjoyed the variation of terrain – – – — – nurseries, forests, ranch land, dairy farms, desert, mountains, rocks, etc. What a wonderful country that we live in and we should be thankful.
As I traveled I drove along many Byways and they were all different. Going through the mountain Byways in Oregon, the Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway, McKenzie Pass – Santiam Pass Scenic Byway, and others in Oregon. California is filled with scenic drives – – – just a couple —– the Byway from the Beaches of LaJolla to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, all of Highway 101, and the drives around the Santa Monica Mountains. It is a reminder that most of the Byways in America take us off the beaten path and into rural and smaller towns. During this holiday season, do take a drive along the OLD RED TRAIL and visit the shops.
I did make it to the Bread and Wine Saturday at the Abby in Richardton. What a wonderful day with delicious breads (and fruit cake), wine, and gifts from the Gift Shop. The Brothers of the Abby are most hospitable and helpful.
This past month the OLD RED TRAIL Committee has the opportunity to meet at Susie’s Stash in Richardton. What a wonderful store full of fabric and accessories for all. Thank you for having us. I would suggest that if you are a seamstress, you make a trip to Susie’s and check out her store.
Also this fall we met at Suzy Q’s in Mandan at the Heritage Plaza. She has awesome antiques and is a Pride of Dakota Store. Make a stop here also. Thanks Suzy.
This month is a busy time in all the towns with school Christmas programs, basketball games, wrestling matches, Santa days, etc. I hope all of you participate in your community activities along the OLD RED TRAIL.
Until next time, Be Well, Do Good Works, and see you on the OLD RED TRAIL.
~ Delores Klusman
December 3, 2018
OLD RED/OLD TEN SCENIC BYWAY
Before Highways there were trails