After crossing Nevada via the "loneliest highway in America," we can attest to its bleakness; but, in fairness, it has a somewhat austere beauty which many have appreciated and noted.  We made a few stops along the way which is a characteristic of the way we travel: stretch, find the restroom, look for good coffee, etc.  I've included one picture of Austin, a town that was founded by a pony express rider who filed a silver claim in 1983 after discovering a rich vein nearby.  Thousands were soon to follow, and the town boasted a population of 50, 000 during its hayday.  It is also claimed that more than 50 million in silver was mined during its production years. Today around 4,000 live in the larger metro area, and they pride themselves in being "very independent," according to the local Austin flyer.

As a sidebar, I should give a brief review of the Ford 250 Super Duty Lariat Diesel 6.7 and the Arctic Fox 22 GQ.  Well, as a general caveat:  This is not an economy vehicle.  Pulling the 7,500 pound trailer, we have been averaging 12 mpg.  However, we have learned to rationalize and are beginning to forgive its thirst.  As for performance, it more than makes up for its excessive drinking habit.  The Ford is a pleasure to drive: very powerful, very comfortable, very smooth. We are very happy with our choice of truck.   As for the Arctic Fox, after enjoying the coziness of the Sprinter Van, we are luxuriating in the roominess of the Fox.  I will send interior pics in a later post.