A Journey Back in Time

As I write this my eyes fill with tears as thoughts of my military past come flooding back. As I sit at my computer writing this piece I am interrupted by an arriving email. About 6 months ago just for fun I put out a call to any of my old comrades who served with me in the Royal Air Force in England in the 50s. A few months ago, one of my closest 'buddies' responded, his name was Jim and Jim and I now correspond regularly.
Today I received this:

"Hi Pete,
Just came upon the web site for boy entrants, clicked on 11th entry and saw your name. If I remember right you played the trumpet and I think you were Canadian. The people that I remember were ..."

.....And Andy went on to recount his travels and memories of times long gone.
He is now retired and enjoying it very much.
HAPPY DAYS INDEED! Thanks Andy.

Why do I share this piece with you? Well its memories like these that make life in general and travel so special! Life is built on memories. And happy memories are the result of our daily experiences with our friends and family and the wonderful times we spend together with those we meet quite unexpectedly whilst traveling or on vacation.
I spent many years in the vacation resort development business which enabled me to travel the globe and provides me with a wealth of memories that I will never forget.

Travel is my life. As a retired archaeologist I take every opportunity to visit as many unique destinations as my limited remaining years will allow.

On the subject of memories, I Recently had the opportunity to re visit Calico - an old gold mining Ghost Town just outside Barstow, CA on the I-15. http://calicotown.com
Traveling as I often do from my home in Las Vegas to L.A., I frequently pass the turn off.

Not only will the recreation of 'days of yesteryear' create some great memories for you; for old timers like me there is a great deal to stir up old memories as well.

Finally with thoughts of the 50s rushing through my head, let me tell you about an unexpected surprise if you've not traveled this route before - its Peggy Sue's Diner. http://peggysuesdiner.com
Located just off the I-15 highway (same turnoff as Calico by the way) is this fabulous collection of everything that was great about the 50s including food you have to sample to believe.

I have over the years (more than I care to mention) visited many recreations of a 50's diner - but this is the real deal! Peggy's collection of collectables has to be one of the most extensive I've ever seen. The restaurant features all sorts of themed areas and seems to go on forever - as does the menu!

Don't plan to stop for a quick bite. I spent over an hour just wandering around the gift shop! There is a great relaxing area at the back but Peggy, you have got to improve the view from the highway! It's possibly your greatest advertisement, but it definitely needs attention. That apart - I highly recommend a visit.

Peggy, keep my seat warm - I for one will be back!