On the road again...Elko edition

The Obama campaign changed its mind about sending me to Nevada and so I am on my way to Missouri instead. My mom decided to come along with me for the drive out, which has actually be a lot of fun. We have done a lot of traveling together over the years and thus we have a good travel routine.

We made it to Elko, Nevada tonight. I was hoping to get farther, but things just didn't work out that way. 530 miles or so in a day isn't too bad, though the next two days will be in the 600 to 650 mile range. We are aiming to spend tomorrow night in Laramie, WY.

After checking into the hotel, we decided to go to an Indian place for dinner. When we go there, however, we noticed a very popular Basque restaurant next door. While I am loath to pass up Indian, this place looked far more interesting and the hour and a half wait time suggested that the food would be excellent. It was worth every minute and I can't tell you the last time I had that much food in front of me. When you order an entree at this place, it comes with soup, fresh bread, salad, Basque beans, green beans, spaghetti, and french fries. Mom ordered a bacon wrapped filet and I had grilled chicken and both were delicious. There was so much left over food that I wanted to pack it all up and head to the nearest homeless shelter to feed ten people. Truly amazing. So, if you are ever in Elko, eat at the Star Hotel and for the love of all that is holy, split the entree!

Waiting for our table gave us plenty of time to people watch. I have to admit that I was a little worried about leaving my car with its California license plate and Obama sticker out in front of the restaurant. There were a lot of people wearing cowboy hats and drinking bottles of Bud Light. We managed to not discuss politics with anyone until the waitress was clearing (ALL!) of the plates at the end of the meal. She asked if we wanted to take anything with us and we replied that we were on the road and wouldn't be able to. Mom mentioned that I was headed to Missouri to work for the Obama campaign and the waitress just lit up. She was gushing about how exciting this campaign is and how interesting everything is. She mentioned that Obama has been to Elko three or so times and that she finally managed to see him this last time through. She wished me good luck. It was a little shocking and wonderful to find another Obama supporter in what I had thought to be a little redneck town. It's now time for me to put away my prejudices and get to know the people of small town America. I think I'm gonna like it here.