kentucky: whiskey anyone?

It was 4:30 when we pulled into our visitor parking space at Maker’s Mark Distillery. As we opened the door to the visitor check-in, we were face to face with a gentleman that said “Sorry folks. We were just closing up but the gift shop and info center may still be open. It’s over there.”

We walked to the next building, he walked with us and asked where we were from. It’s always a showstopper when we tell them, in a most casual manner, “Alaska”. “Well, folks, my name is Kevin. I am the master distiller here. See the people following us? They are here to film a tv show. Do you know CBS Sunday Morning? Just because you came all the way from Alaska, please join us.” I turned to see Martha Teichner and her producer, Judy. They were at the Distillery to do a segment on food – and booze, obviously – that will air on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

We introduced ourselves. I confirmed our stature as true fans by mentioning Charles Kerault and the fact that Frank gave me a present of his autobiography years ago. Then to add syrup to the mix, I complimented her scarves. Now, that was a conversation starter and a showstopper. She told me she hated to be cold and she wanted to know our story.

Time for showstopper #3: Motor home. We talked for a bit about our road trip. Martha said without showing a sign of emotion - well, maybe there was that twitch of confusion we often note when we mention "motor home" to people we meet on the road - that she thought "that kind of travel would be a great thing to do for 2 or 3 years." I smiled but didn’t tell her that I am not so sure. Two or three years is a short time on the planet but a long time in a motor home.

I wonder where she spent the night.