We made it to Mitchell, SD.  Stopped at the Cabela's there to get the new camping gear.  Let me say that not all Cabela's are created equally.  I was spoiled by the huge Cabela's in E. Hartford (CT) and didn't know it as that was the only one I had ever shopped.  But Walmart was in the same plaza so we went there to get the things Cabela's didn't have- mainly air mattresses and propane stove (Cabela's had 1 stove with an electric starter but didn't want to get that style).  We weren't able to get the backpacking things so that part of the trip may be scrubbed- told Rodger that I was willing to eat cold food and make a survival tent with the survival blankets we carry (silver mylar), but I don't think he'll go for that!  Wonder why??

Stayed at a REALLY nice Holiday Inn Express for a much needed night of fun (kids in pool), repacking, and laundry (unbelievable how much laundry 5 people make in 4 days- mostly the kids).

Didn't mention earlier that on Sunday the audio part of the van died- no CD, tape player or radio.  What we didn't realize was that 1 of the 2 auxiliary power outlets also died and it was the one the cooler was plugged into.  So we lost my vegan cheese and a few other things :( Fortunately, we had another outlet in the back so we moved the plug there.  

Posting pictures from yesterday on the next post.  Today we look forward to seeing the prairie dogs and sites of the Badlands.