I first ran away for Christmas in 2006, and, with the exception of 2020, have done so every year since. Over time, I have become more conscious of Christmas’ connection with the Winter Solstice and, in recent years, have scheduled my trip at least as much around the natural holiday as around the man-made one. That continues this year with the trip beginning at the Cahokia Mounds World Heritage Site near Collinsville, Illinois. From there, I’ll head west on Historic Route 66 to at least Tulsa. Where I’ll spend Christmas, and what road I’ll be on at the time, will be revealed to me as the day approaches. The journal for the first day (i.e., Winter Solstice 2025) has been posted.
This entry lets blog-only subscribers know about the trip and provides a place for comments. The journal is here.
Hi Denny.
Saw your blog entry on Flo’s 66 Diner where you embedded a link to “friends at a restaurant in Virginia.” Indeed, that picture is the breakfast you had with my son and I at the Dairy Bar in Richmond, back in November 2021. A great time was had by all!
Sadly, about 6 months after that photo was taken, the Dairy Bar closed permanently after 76 years in business… a victim of COVID economics. Last I heard, the site will be demolished for construction of a hotel.
Cherish the memories and take nothing for granted!
Merry Chtistmas, Denny.
Your pal in VA, Wes
So sorry to hear that. The Dairy Bar was a cool restaurant with some great history. Right on about the memories. Things can disappear quickly without warning. Thanks for the update and have a great Christmas.
Denny,
Correction to my comment above…
It was November 2020 (not 2021) when we met at the Dairy Bar (your photo location) in Richmond, VA.
That restaurant closed in May 2022.
Time flies!
Wes