Route 66, Kingman, Arizona - January 21 & 22, 2006 (Re-run)

 Medical Update: I'm pleased to report the chemo and radiation treatments started five weeks ago have been completed.  However, in a discussion with my oncologist, I was told the best chance of avoiding surgery would be more chemo-therapy using a more aggressive drug.  Since I am most anxious to avoid surgery and the distinct possibility of a colostomy, I have chosen the additional chemo, which is expected to last 12 to 16 weeks, depending on how I tolerate it.

*********************************************************************************** Route 66 was one of America's first major highways, opened in 1926 and running from Chicago to Los Angeles.  It became one of the most famous roads and was the primary route for folks migrating west during the Dust Bowl era.  Most of it was eradicated by the construction of I-40, but where it remains, it is a celebrated and popular tourist attraction.  Kingman is one of the towns that preserves and promotes its portion of Route 66.

Heading west toward the town of Oatman, Route 66 provides interesting history and dramatic scenery.

Oatman is almost a ghost town, but still claims about 100 residents who rely on tourism for their survival.  In 1915 it was a prosperous mining town with approximately 3500 citizens.  It became a popular overnight stop for those traveling Route 66, including many Hollywood stars.  The hotel prides itself on being the 1939 wedding night location for Clark Gable and Carole Lombard.  Several movies have been filmed here, including How The West Was Won, a favorite of mine.