We are en route to Texas, just getting settled at midnight at our motel 30 miles east of Albuquerque, New Mexico. We left LA at 5:45 am, stopped at the Grand Canyon, and are now here with outside temperatures right at 5 degrees. The roads are open, but there is snow in piles that has been recently plowed, as well as in all the fields. The night sky is crystal clear. I saw Orion bright above me when I took our corgie, Cordelia, out for a quick round in the parking lot.
We are in our big van – 15 passenger – but we are only 7: all three daughters, Sarah’s boyfriend, and Rachael’s college roommate. Oh, we also have Cordelia and our cat, William. Both in their kennels, except when Cordi is being cuddled along the way. We always bring Cordie, but William is a new addition to the travel plan. Our other cat, Charlie, disappeared about 2 weeks ago and there was no way we were going to risk leaving William alone. So, except for a big pee shortly after we left – on blue disposable pads, thank god – William has been a fine traveling companion.
The Grand Canyon was gorgeous. The weather was clear and chilly, and the sun lit up the rocks to a deep red and beige. We stopped at several look-outs on the south rim, joined a whole group of Japanese tourists we’d already seen at McDonald’s up the road – the only place open on Christmas except for Denny’s, and we also had a picnic that we’d thought could be outside, but was in our van instead. A little too cool by that time of day – 4:30. We had leftover Christmas Eve lasagna, potato salad (yes, an odd combo) and homemade chocolate cookies – excellent fare while gazing at the magnificence of the Grand Canyon.
Tomorrow we’ll see if we’re stuck here for a while. Apparently, Santa Rosa, just down the road is covered in snow and ice tonight, and Amarillo had a terrible storm today. So, we’ll check the weather and make decisions accordingly. That’s tomorrow’s worry.
Today, was a lovely Christmas. A pure family day – all day and evening. I am grateful for this special time with family and friends.
The best part of the trip – besides the people – is that once on the road, there’s nothing to do but relax. That is a welcome addition in my life right now and I am enjoying it thoroughly.
Now, I’m ready to get ready for bed.
Merry Christmas to all.
How did you spend your day? Please leave a comment and let me know.
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