In a message dated 98-07-16 00:10:45 EDT, you write:

<<
 I'm from AK where I grew up with VW Vans. Where ya headed to? Do you need
 any suggestions for "the right back roads" to explore? Let me know, and a
 friend and I can certainly point you int eh right direstion.

 Me and my 1988 vanagon have found their way to Olympia, Wa for a while.
 You;ll have plenty of light to drive & play by. Have a great time. >>
Hi Dave,

      We're currently in Colby, Kansas and heading up to Mt. Rushmore today.
By the time I can log on and send this we'll be in Bozeman, Montana.  We're
not taking too many side trips as Uncle Sam gave me a limited time to make the
journey.  We're taking the eastern route through Alberta(?) Edmonton and the
like on our way to Anchorage, AK.  Making good time in my 86 Weekender but the
super hot temperatures in the midwest are keeping the temp gage reading about
1/4 in from the far right mark.  I'm keeping speeds down to around 60 and
getting just over 16 mpg towing about 1100 lbs of trailer and possessions.
With two teenage boys, a wife, two cats, a cooler, litter box, and 100+
compact discs, I think this is pretty good.  Bet you couldn't do that in a
Dodge Caravan or Toyota.  The only vehicle that could possibly provide this
much versatility would be a Suburban..... but I daresay it wouldn't be getting
16 mpg, eh?  These Vanagon are unique and awesome vehicles.
ONWARD TO ALASKA!

Scott De Santi
86 Vanagon