Epic Road Trip

I said to stay tuned and hopefully that long pause didn't scare anyone away...not that anyone really reads this, but there are some updates.

There are some participant changes, but the "core group" is still together.  For now.  One is getting married and picked a date somewhere around 60 days prior to this trip.  I think that's a lousy excuse.  Also, they are getting married at the starting point.  Part of me thinks they're going to "scout" some car lots, which is prohibited *ahem*

Either way...plans are still going forward.  The start point is Vegas and we're going to drive to Omahell.  No interstates.  No chain-hotels.  No chain-restaurants.  Try not to get shot.  Try to get a stuffed armadillo.  Those are the highlights so far...

Banks hope you're stupid.

Dear General Public, I realize that being charged $5/mnth for the use of a debit card might seem unfair. I mean, after all, it's access to your money.  How about this instead.  Tally up how much fuel it would cost you to drive to your bank and withdraw exactly what you need for your purchases.  Or hope the retailer you are planning to visit will still accept checks.  You should probably be thankful you are not a Citi Bank customer as they're getting hit with a $15/mnth account fee.

Or, stop being stupid.  They're going to do what it takes to stay in business.  If you don't like it, try changing banks.  They are really hoping that you switch to credit cards.  I'm guessing you'll do something that dumb, but I hope not.

You pick.  Either way, just please shut up.