05/09/2007 No Storms ... How "Shocking"

Wednesday was largely a travel day. Despite a slight risk for severe t-storms in central and southern TX, we decided to begin the long trip poleward toward the north-central Plains. Shear was simply not adequate for supercells. The decision was quite easy to make … anything to get out of the god-awful state of Texas. I’ve never liked chasing Texas; I’m not sure if it is for the fact they can’t design interstate entrance ramps correctly or for the fact that every Texas person seems overly proud of their crappy state.

We left the Abilene La Quinta (BTW, they did have “normal-shaped” waffles) to find a much sought after Chick-fil-a for lunch. We eventually found one on Abilene Christian University campus. Chelly and Kelsey, for some crazy reason, decided to purchase (and proudly wear for the remainder of the day) Abilene Christian T-shirts (see picture evidence below). After the visit to campus, we began the “scenic” drive through Throckmorton, Wichita Falls, Lawton, OKC, and Wichita.

We “Pricelined” the 3* Broadview Hotel in downtown Wichita. The historical hotel was more than adequate despite its antique interior. After checking in, the group wanted to eat at Hooters. So, after only a few days into the trip, the Mexican restaurant “challenge” has ended -- thankfully. After a couple pitchers and wings at Hooters, we decided to catch the tail end of the Wichita State University baseball game. The “Shockers” beat South Alabama 15-5. The stadium was actually quite nice and, most importantly, allowed alcohol in the outfield stands. [Name removed] met a crazy old man – Captain Morgan Marauders – while we were trolling the outfield stands. I’m still not sure what happened during the conversation, but we all ended up with free beers and a picture of the Chelly and Kelsey enjoying the “Caps” company. After the game, we returned to the hotel and got some sleep.

In the "lap" of the "Cap"

This morning we headed back to the Wichita State University campus to, once again, find some Chick-fil-a (we gave this Chick-fil-a experience 2.75 cows out of 5). We also picked up some WSU “Shocker” T-shirts.

Currently, we are heading toward Nebraska. It looks like tomorrow holds a tiny chance of a photogenic supercell in South Dakota. Keep your fingers crossed.

Update: As I was finishing the blog for yesterday, we “stumbled” across a small storm near McPherson, KS that produced 3-4 needle funnels. Go figure …

Needle Funnel near McPherson, KS