Places Mary Went

Did you go with Mary on one of her trips across the Grand Canyon? Europe? The Middle East? Tell.

Comments

[Susy Irwin]

Hi there,
Yes I was lucky. I took two trips with Mary, one would have been the last trip she and Dank took down the Grand Canyon, and the other was a road trip from San Diego to Mexico City via the newly paved road to La Paz.
My memories of Mary on the Grand Canyon trip,started early on. I drove with them to the Canyon and on the way I asked Mary if I could adopt her. I believe this was the second time I had asked. I wanted parents I could relate too, I think she laughed, but I was serious. Part of the reason I loved Dank and Mary so much was I could talk to them and they would not only listen but understand. I always felt welcome at Mary's home, no matter what. That was alot in my humble opinion. Needless to say they didnt change their name, nor did I but I still felt like they were kin.
Another thing I remember about that trip was Mary and Dank reading parts of Tony Hillerman, they would rip up a book and carry different parts.
I remember the kindness inspired by Mary. I remember Barbara Leach getting up before dawn and carrying Mary's pack up to the rim for her. I don't believe she asked for the help either. I dont remember her complaining on that trip, although it was hot and tiring for me and I was 40 at the time she was almost 80. That was the Mary I knew, not complaining about anything except the scoundrels in office.
The trip taken from San Diego was eventful for those two because they had a youg'in, me, with them. I didn't manange to stay out of trouble which made the trip more interesting. I sent Mary a tape, which I hope she still has, of what happened while they were resting up from the touristas in Juncalito. If you don't find it, I will make another and send it to Folsoms.
I remember I had taken the scenic route from Cabo San Lucas on a 20 ft sailboat, and we ran into a hurricane. so they put me ashore, and I climbed up the cliffs and sat on the dirt road waiting for the International from heaven to come fetch me. And then Mary did't like boats too much and we were headed across the Sea of Cortez. Once again, not much mumbling, she took her Dramamine, and off we went. If this doesnt make sense.
We had fun buying pillows and rugs in Guanajuato, and enduring the taxi drivers in Mexico City. But the most fun we had was being together. They had to lay down the law about my driving. Hey, I was 22 and had places to get to. I remember barreling down the highway with that Airstream trailer tagging along, must have been cruising pretty fast, and out of nowhere, a man and a donkey in the middle of the road. We are lucky I didnt jackknife that outfit. After that Dank read me the riot act, and I slowed down a bit. That was the only time in two weeks of living that there was any disagreement. Now if that doesn't mean something, tell me what does.