And now it is time to head home

After a train ride back from the Grand Canyon…

We have spent the last couple of days heading east on I40 with some rerouting through Route 66. While most of the time Route 66 and I40 are combined, through many of the populated areas, Route 66 serves as the main street through the business districts. It provides a brief respite to the long interstate.

Yesterday we did reroute through the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest.

If there is one thing that can be emphasized by this trip is the United States is a vast country with many different eco systems. Most of the northern states have plenty of water, trees and agriculture. As we traveled to the south, we found grazing cattle and a much drier climate. The landscapes in the north are lush in greens and blues. Bright full colors.

In the south the colors are more muted, but no less impressive. I am left with a sensation of awe.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

We spent last night in Albuquerque, NM. Had a breakfast burrito at the Frontier Restaurant near the University of New Mexico. The burrito was excellent. A drive up and down Route 66 provided a look at past and present and provided a chance to fix glasses damaged along the way. Route 66 is a commercial touristy route wherever we took it. In Albuquerque it is also Central Avenue and takes you from the old city all the way to Route 40 in the east.

Albuquerque is either a large little city or a big small city. Big enough to support a diverse culture, small enough to not totally overwhelm all but the most rural people.

The Texas Panhandle

The observations of the Texas panhandle is mostly flat, cattle and wind turbines.

We Returned to Route 66 to spend the night.

Had ice cream at Braums, in Elk City, Oklahoma. It is time to say “Good night”!