Passing the time when traveling.

Most of the longest trips that I can remember included having little technology and someone to accompany me.. I was raised in the days of audiobooks on cassette to keep my attention on long car rides in places where the radio would be pointless. We all enjoy the radio until we reach somewhere in the boondocks that music seems to cease...

At this point technology has failed you. Your likely going to reach for your phone and attempt to stream your music into your stereo.. No luck.... DEAD ZONE...

What do you do?

On some trips... even shorter trips to Missouri I enjoy delving deep into my driving partners life., I create small talk about the weather... and then attempt to reach into the depths of their childhood. There is something about human contact, understanding that modern conveniences can't seem to touch. I tend to find that the most effective way to learn about someone is from being stuck in a car with them for hours..

Staying awake...

What are some things that you do to stay awake on a long drive. Some people do a variety of things.. High octane energy drinks seem to be the rage with the younger crowd while the older crowd spends a few quarters on coffee. I myself believe in drinking water and stretching.My relationship with Red Bull is like a roller coaster. The first few hours in which I drink it I am wired. The blood from my heart pumps heard and I am energized. However, after a few hours I crash.... and I crash hard.. Sometimes if I want to take a nap I will drink an energy drink early in the day because the down slide is steep when the caffeine and sugar wear off.

My tactic is walking, stretching, and water... Once I start to feel tired I tend to stop and search for a place for a relatively short but moderate walk. Truck stops and small parks remain a easily accessible location that isn't far from my pathway.... the interstate...

Stretching remains crucial because as my arms and legs have been positioned in the same configuration... I tend to feel sleepy.. Arm pulls and toe touches seem to be essential... Although it does seem to get some awkward stairs as people are passing by.

Water is the last defense... I believe in staying hydrated regardless of the weather... However, as you drink water you have to use the bathroom.. It keeps me from wanting to stay in a position of comfort for too long and get sleepy..

In conclusion, I am always doing something... Stay mobile.