It took us a week, a few thousand miles, many hundreds of dollars for gas, and a little aggravation, but this morning, we went back to the Arkansas Fairgrounds for the Long Hauler ceremony.

This year was relatively painless...we got there about 9:15 AM, Kevin had us park in an area we could easily leave from, and at 10:00 AM, Hot Rod's editor took the group photo.

Immediately after that, the lines formed for the Long Hauler gift(s), which were a $5 gas card from BP Oil (how far will THAT get you?), a Long Hauler certificate, and a soft-sided twelve-pack cooler with the Hot Rod logo on it. We were outa there about 10:30 AM!

Next year's Tour, for those that might be interested, begins in Little Rock, and ends in Madison, Wisconsin. The only stop in between that's firm is Lincoln, Nebraska.

We took Kevin and AJ to Sims BBQ, and AJ, the culinary expert, said it was the best BBQ he ever had!

The ride to Hamilton was uneventful, except for an eight-mile detour for some ice cream...Sonny will explain, but I wouldn't recommend you ask!

Tomorrow we drive to Tallahassee, and spend the night. Monday morning, Sonny and I head for Altamonte Springs, Cecil's going to Jacksonville, and Packard Bill will head towards Englewood.

No Tour for the Mercury guys next year...we've done it for the past five years, and are ready for a change. See y'all next June in Carlisle!