The eldest oyster looked at him, but never a word he said.

So, that's it folks.  Thanks for reading.  We certainly hoped you enjoyed our accounts of the trip.  We're currently working on making up a photo album of everything that we saw so ask us to share in the not too distant future. Overall, we had an absolute blast and will cherish this adventure for years to come.  Our country has a plethora of completely amazing sights to witness which can only be fully appreciated in person.  While the traveling takes a bit out of you and takes a bit of effort to make happen, the experiences are truly priceless.  So what are you waiting for?  Stop talking about it and go for it.  Quit your jobs.  Sell your children.  Whatever it takes, don't wait for the opportunity to come along because chances are it won't.  Make your own destiny and enjoy the results! 

We leave you with these 10 anecdotes/ lessons learned/ words of wisdom:

1.  Emergency license plate = 1 manila folder + Sharpee + Duct Tape

2.  2.1lb. container of Goldfish is essential to successful road tripping.

3.  If going with the thriftier, camping approach, a general loss of hygiene is simply an indicator that you're focusing on the more important aspects of travel.

4.  Travel during the summer.  Sure, you have to deal with the extra tourist traffic but so many of the Nation's most treasured areas are nearly unreachable during the winter months.

5.  GPSs are great but a good solid atlas is incomparable and doesn't have to search for a satellite to function.

6.  Drivers in the Northeast (excepting upstate New York) top the lis for the least courteous in the country.

7.  At some points in the desert regions, who knows when you'll see the next gas station so utilize your opportunities to fuel up.  Also, it helps to have a spare canister of gasoline with you.

8.  When utilizing a vehicle with a manuel transmission on a road trip, all drivers should be proficient in its operation BEFOREHAND and not rely on mountain slopes to get acquainted.

9.  Invest in a good, solid sleeping pad.  Your back and level of fatigue will thank you.

10.  Best campfire creation: Grill Dog topped with Spanish rice (hot sauce optional)

Much love,

The Walrus & The Carpenter.

PS  We don't actually mean for you to sell your kids.  Just rent them out temporarily.