After purchasing a vehicle for my daughter to use at college, the challenge became transporting the compact Mazda from Portland, Oregon, to Fulton, Missouri. Maria and I enjoy time together in the car, yet we struggle with extended drives.

We reviewed the distance, exceeding 2,000 miles, and sighed.

"Shall we attempt this?" I inquired. "Recall that trip from Eugene?"

We chuckled, remembering how after a tiring day we failed to cover the standard three hours from Eugene, Oregon, to Portland without frequent breaks every 10 to 15 minutes. We alternated with calls of "Your turn," while using cold air blasts and chewing Good 'n' Plenty licorice to remain alert. In the end, we rested at a pull-off area. I completed the journey while Maria slept.

We Chose the Scenic Path to Campus

"Let's turn this into an adventure," Maria suggested during our discussion about taking the longer route. She understands my fondness for camping under the stars and rising amid nature. The outdoors would soothe my heavy heart as I anticipated missing her. I treasured our moments even before departure.

We planned the extended itinerary. In Yellowstone, we camped beside a large motorhome equipped with satellite television. We laughed while setting up our small tent in its shade. The next morning brought quick coffee followed by wildlife viewing, spotting bison, moose, elk, deer, wolves, and additional animals. At one overlook, a visitor attempted to approach a large-antlered bull moose as others recorded the scene.

Our Journey Created Lasting Shared Experiences

We crossed Wyoming's vast landscapes under clear blue skies. We camped at Custer State Park beside a flowing river. At dawn, we sat on a log enjoying unfiltered cowboy coffee. "Far superior to air travel," I remarked, to my own surprise.

Our reaction was subdued at Mt. Rushmore, where we took playful photos pretending to squeeze the carved faces, drawing a disapproving look from a woman in white sneakers.

From there we visited Crazy Horse, the enormous ongoing carving of the Lakota leader. Its scale, beauty, and history moved me to tears. Mt. Rushmore would fit within one pointing finger of the monument.

We continued to the famous Wall Drug for a stretch, then to the Corn Palace. "Entirely made of corn?" I wondered. Indeed, intricate murals crafted from corn and grains adorned the structure.

The Drive Eased My Emotions About Her Leaving

Signs in Kansas promoted attractions like the World's Largest Prairie Dog and a live five-legged cow, along with rattlesnakes. Though the prairie dog proved to be a large concrete statue, it ranked high among our roadside stops and included a rattlesnake display in a shop. The attendant named Suzy tapped the enclosures with a cane to prompt rattling, startling both the snakes and us.

"It's fine," I told Suzy, raising my hand. "Let them rest." "You paid to view them," she replied while striking another case as Maria looked on.

We contained our laughter until reaching the car.

We paused at rest areas and stations, sipping sparkling water and soda, eating snacks, and using camp showers. The only drowsy stretch occurred in Kansas with the usual questions about arrival. It proved less challenging than the earlier drive, though the flat terrain induced drowsiness.

"My turn. I have it," Maria said, securing her ponytail as she took the wheel. I observed her approaching adulthood while she sang along to our playlist featuring Garth Brooks, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Chicks, and others.

Willie Nelson accompanied us across states. We played "On the Road Again" each morning, restart, and border crossing. The song now evokes thoughts of my daughter.

Upon arriving in Fulton, Missouri, I realized I could return home by plane without her. Both of us felt prepared. Though dropping off my children at college brought mixed feelings, my enthusiasm for her future outweighed the sorrow that year.

We will always share memories of the rattlesnakes and laugh about them still.