Oshkosh, Wis.

What we learned from our road trip so far:

Driving just five hours a day means you have two or more hours each day for a visit with a friend or relative, or a hike in a park or wildlife refuge. Much better than driving 8-10 hours a day, as we used to do.

When you go hiking, use insect repellent. Then check carefully for ticks before you get in the car.

The Best Western motel in Chamberlain, S.D., has really fast internet service.

Widespread acceptance of videoconferencing means you can do the following on a road trip: attend a civic meeting; lead a General Assembly workshop; attend a committee meeting; attend a professional conference.

Driving with a canoe tied on top of your car lowers your gas mileage by about 15%.

If you have a soprano ukulele in the car, whoever’s sitting in the passenger seat can play it while you sing together. Much better for staying awake than audio books.