(10-18-2023 11:38 AM)Eva Elisabeth Wrote:  Gene, it's so cool you are still doing the trip. I couldn't belive it but just checked it out - it's ten years ago you have done it the first time. Kudos! I just wish it were less expensive and not that far away.

So do I.
Thanks Eva.

We still have some availability for our tour this coming weekend, and the fall colors will be close, or at their peak.
As an incentive, let me remind you that things change over time.
The unfinished mural, located next to the Lincoln Depot, is no longer there. The building it was painted on has been torn down.
During our last visit to New Salem (before covid) the buildings were showing obvious signs of deterioration. It will be interesting to see what state of repair (remember it's Illinois) they are now in.
Museum exhibits change (Lincoln's hat, Marilyn Monroe's dress) are no longer on exhibit at the ALPM. Marilyn's dress was sold in 2018 for $50,000

Eva mentioned the cost. Motels usually run about $100 - $120 a night. We try to eat well, nothing too fancy, we're simple folk. From a quick snack at the Coy Dog to a four course meal, also at the Cozy Dog, "A tourist marches on his stomach" (Napolean) Unlike Napolean, we've never lost a participant, yet.
We can also go Italian, where we raise a toast (or breadstick) to previous participants.

Books - we put no $ limit on what you can spend.
Remember its Thursday - Sunday Oct 27-29. Come and go as you please.
We have a great time, form lasting friendships, learn interesting things.

If interested, send me or Scott a message for more information.

Back home now. Scott and I had an interesting, informative and surprising visit to Charleston, IL and Springfield area.
More on our trip after I figure out, or my wife shows me how to down load the pictures off my phone.

We made some last minute changes to our planned visit due to the weather. These changes turned out to be very profitable,
especially to the book stores we visited.

Gene,

Wish I could have made it to see you and Scott, but unfortunately, when I asked Patsy if she wanted dog biscuits or to allow me to go up there and spend that money on books......well, I can't repeat what she barked, but needless to say, it wasn't "sure!"

Best
Rob

Gene,
I too wish I was able to join you and Scott. I am indeed fortunate to have been on the tour a few years ago. Can't wait to see your photos and report.

(10-30-2023 02:27 PM)Anita Wrote:  Gene,
Can't wait to see your photos and report.

I second Anita!