First Annual Run to Rushmore was a great success!!
Saturday began the cruise across the State via I-90 west, stopped for lunch on the banks of the Missouri River at the Historic Al's Oasis - Buffalo Burgers and Homemade Apple Pie was enjoyed by all. The tiny 1880 town of Keystone at the foot of Mt Rushmore was reached by Sunset, only to view the most spectacular storm clouds leaving the Hills and heading out over the prairie. The Famous Ruby House hosted an Exceptional Dinner, Drinks were flowing later in the Red Garter Saloon. Our Hotel accommodations at BattleCreek Lodge were full of flavor and the owner quite a character.
Sunday - began at beautiful Deerfield Lake for a great picnic breakfast and some rock collecting, cruising on to the rustic ghost town of Rochford to have lunch at the Moonshine Gulch. Onward to Spearfish Canyon, a short hike was conducted to view Roughlock Falls. Cruising next to Terry Peak (the TOP), which overlooks the entire Northern Hills. Returning to the Ruby House for another Exceptional Dinner and Evening of Old West Entertainment.
Monday - our 18th Wedding Anniversary - a short shopping spree down Historic Main Street and we were off on another scenic route North to the town of Deadwood - the first stop Saloon #10, after tipping a few cold ones, we then witnessed the shooting of Wild Bill Hitchcock by Jack McCall. A new gold purchase was next on the list, then a wonderful brunch was enjoyed at the Latchstring Inn - creekside. Onward to Sylvan Lake inside Custer State Park for a short hike at the foot of Harney Peak. Our return route was a breathtaking cruise down the Needles Hwy - winding thru the Cathedral Spires and hooking up with the Wildlife loop thru the park....We saw Mountain Goats, Big Horn Sheep, Deer, Antelope and of course Buffalo (too up close). As the sun was going down a stop at Legion Lake for snacks and a quite moment to take in the great view and reflect on the day. While cruising back to base - a great light upon a mountain -----Crazy Horse Mountain in all its glory, what a sight. The Proud Warrior can be seen for miles - absolutely incredible - we pulled onto a side road, turned off all lights and sat for a while to think and reflect. This Perfect Day continued with another wonderful dinner at the Ruby House, a romantic stroll, followed by a fireside seranade by my one true love.
Tues morning, the TV informed us of the events taking place out East - as things were still unfolding, we realized this had to be the Worst Day in History. Unsure what to think or do, we headed up the Mountain to the Shrine of Democracy. Time stamped in the park at 9:01MT all parking garages where closed and stated FULL, actual cars in the lot could be counted on one hand, the Flag was already at Half Mast and the Visitor Center, Snack Shop Closed. We pretty much had the place to ourselves, there the Noble Faces which represented all that was great with our Country stared back at us, looking more weathered than I remembered them, we sat a long while in silence. Soon the Park Ranger came to shut the place down, more in respect than any real threat he said, notes explaining the terrorist attack were then placed on the doors. As we drove back down the Mountain, nothing seemed fun anymore, we felt the need to go home.
On our way out of the Hills a stop at Sioux Pottery somehow seemed to be in order, while watching a couple Artists quietly painting in the backroom a calmness was felt - as we were looking around I found a new piece in their collection - it was a must have - a black and white jar containing a wonderful smelling candle with none other than the sacred Peace Pipes carved and painted around the edge.
I have lit this candle nightly since, and pray for Peace Around the World - I think it just might help.........
God Bless