We woke up this morning to the news of multiple wild fires in San Diego County's and the intense heat wave in the greater Los Angeles, California area. In Florida, there is another bizarre weather pattern which is causing flooding. In comparison, today's weather in Box Elder, South Dakota was 57 degrees and sunny. We were reluctant to leave our spacious and comfortable hotel room, we delayed our departure until noon. Our faithful 'Honu' was waiting in the parking lot.
The first order of the day, J.J. and I went to the Department of Motor Vehicle to get our South Dakota drivers' licenses. It was very simple: complete a document regarding your name and address, and answer some questions on your driving history. We were asked to present our passport, social security card and your current driving license. After an eye test, having our photograph taken, and paying $20 each, we traded in our Hawaii licenses for South Dakota ones. It took about 15 minutes for the two of us. The clerk was friendly, courteous and curious about our travel plans. We shook hand as he greeted us, "Welcome to South Dakota."
We had a quick lunch on our way to a Wells Fargo Bank in Robinsdale, South Dakota.
Jessica, the Customer Service & Sales Representative at Wells Fargo Bank greeted us like a long lost friends. She was cheerful, helpful and took time with our banking requirements as well as provided information on both South Dakota and Wyoming, her home state. One of the most interesting things we learned is that you can ski for 8 months out of the year. School children have skiing field trip 3 or 4 times per school year. Her business card has her direct email and phone number, and she invited us to call or email anytime. A very high level of customer service.
The red flower we see everywhere, according to Jessica, is called 'Crabapple' tree.
This is a picture of the Box Elder neighborhood.
Tonight we are expecting the outside temperature to be a mild 47 degrees Fahrenheit. I am ready. We purchased additional thermo underwear, just in case it gets colder.
Passport America is a membership club that negotiates for 50% discount on campsites. There are approximately 1,500 RV Parks that participate in Passport America. Membership is $50 per year. We've already used 3 RV Parks and received 50% discounts on our first nights. In another words, we've already recovered the cost of our membership.
Aloha -- Cathi