In a message dated 99-03-31 19:32:51 EST, you write:

<<  this trip is quickly degenerating into a bad thelma and louise
sequel! think i will have to buy a notebook computer for the trip so you can
all keep me posted as to which states i am wanted by the feds in!  >>

Kari, I have but one word for you - Ty-Bo (alright, two small hyphonated
wordlets)
Believe me when I tell you, nothing strikes fear into the heart of a male
(whether armed or no) like a woman coming at him screaming, yelling, and
trying to neutralize his identity with her bare hands (and/or feet).

Seriously, I would recommend a GOOD self-defense course (such as those taught
by your local police department) as an alternative to a handgun.
Guns have a purpose but in the hands of someone who doesn't regularly shoot
and, more importantly, isn't FULLY prepared to do so, they can be a tremendous
liability - in many ways.

Interesting antedote: I once knew a woman who travelled extensively alone.
Carried one of those inflatable punching bags with her.
Every evening she would clamp that thing to a door, tree, or whatever was
handy and proceed to beat the living HELL out of it for about a half hour.
There wasn't a person I knew that would even THINK of trying to mess with that
lady!
Sometimes image is everything!

Sam Bateman
Fork Union, VA
'87 Vanagon GL
'85 Audi 5000S Avant