Jackson Hole

Last night ended with a fabulous $13.95 soup to nuts filet mignon dinner at the Alpine Inn in the heart of downtown Custer before heading to the lighting ceremony at Mt. Rushmore.  The wait for dinner was an hour and 1/2 but when the hostess saw I was alone she sat me right away, perks of being the lone wolf.  The lighting ceremony was very patriotic.  After the ceremony I took the long winding drive back to the campsite.  This time I was prepared with water and firewood!  The drive in was a different route and it was very dark.  I forgot that I had given my map to Dan for the buffalo round-up so I was worried I wouldn't be able to find my way back, the roads were very narrow, basically one-way, with wild buffalo and deer everywhere it was scary as hell!!  I somehow made it make around 10pm and attempted for all of about 10 minutes to get my fire going with a fire starter kit I had bought, but I was so exhausted I gave up and went to bed.

This morning I woke up nice and early and decided to head to Wyoming.  Glacier National Park didn't seem like a safe option weather wise and it was so far out of the way to begin with.  So off I went to Jackson, Wyoming or "Jackson hole" which is the hub to both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.  I figured I could hang in Jackson for the night check out the weather situation get a feel for what campgrounds are still open and plan my week accordingly.  It was a gorgeous drive.  Wyoming is completely uninhabitated beautiful terrain, and vastly different throughout the state.  The weather was still quite beautiful about 70 degrees and sunny when I arrived.  I stopped at the visitor center gathered some info and stopped a local bar called Lift for a buffalo burger.  I figure after the round-up and all...😂 After talking to the bartender about my travels and discussing my lodging options in the area we agreed that the Four Seasons Jackson Hole would be fabulous choice!  In all seriousness I badly needed a shower, I had been sleeping on the forest floor, and the Four Seasons in Jackson Hole off season was a fabulous option.

So as I lay in bed in my nice big comfy white robe after a nice long bath, I have decided to be more money conscious,  starting now.  I have only been on the road for 6 days and my money needs to last.  I feel like it's hard to budget at this point in the trip.  I need gas, food, shelter, that is pretty much where my money has gone so far.  Yes, I know I did not need the Four Seasons but don't worry I will back out in the forest with Yogi and Boo Boo tomorrow.

Song of the day "Small Bill$" Regina Spektor.  With money on the brain I thought this quirky little tune off Regina's new album that dropped yesterday was the perfect addition to the playlist.  I have loved Regina for many years and am excited to listen to some more of her new stuff!