New Mexico to Grand Canyon

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We were so blessed to find a Travelodge, complete with 2 queen beds (generally we get 2 doubles) for $42.99, taxes included!! The kids found the pool too cold, but it refreshing to Mom, who has been feeling too hot lately.

We discovered the SONIC drive-in restaurant, with milkshakes and a burger for $2.99, which the kids had for supper; The Boldts stayed with the kids , while Mom and Dad went to a Mexican place called Taco Cabana - WOW! Our meals were huge, including a Mango margarita, complete with pleasant Mexican music, and cozy patio chairs. It’s a chain, and Mom highly recommends it!! (In case you are wondering, our bill was about $13!!)

Ron has been fascinated with the altitude. Yesterday we climbed up to 7000 ft. above sea level, and passed 'Mile High Ranch. Albuquerque sits at about 6500ft.

We have hit the 10,000 miles-driven milestone on the trip!!! Gas consumption has been better that we expected; the best price has been $2.21gallon - in Lousiana - but here in New Mexico, the prices are creeping up ($2..67/gallon).

Highlights on a stop - one little snapshot of the interesting, southwestern terrain :

*a few of us felt the effects of CACTUS THORNS. One stuck in the bottom of Jeanette’s flip-flop (we now understand the wisdom of traditonal cowboy boots) which pierced thru the foam and pricked her toe.

*holes in the ground with webs across them - Alex knows what species of spiders do that. There are other bugs, interesting creatures which are much larger than the average ones we generally find at home. Cacti, wildflowers, tumblesweeds, sandy, reddish soil, snake holes, gophers or marmots...

*Clayton recognized the area of the “Historic Route 66” from the movie “Cars”; unfortunately, we are driving on the villianous “Interstate”, because we want to spend more time at the Grand Canyon.

*Caleb was walking resolutely with a walking stick. He has such a delightful, individual personality.

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