Mountains, Mesas, Canyons, and Craters Started out of Albuquerque while it was still dark. Went about 15 minutes down the road to fill up at another truck stop. The view looking back towards Albuquerque was spectacular (even if it was only seeing the night lights glowing in the distance--kind of like seeing Las Vegas from miles away). I wished I would have left a bit later to see this picturesque setting at dawn. Hopefully I can see it coming east on I-40 (if I'm routed the same way back). Now if I had only brought my digital camera....
Another great driving day. I expected rain somewhere along the way but there was none. The scenery was beautiful. The sun came out around Flagstaff, AZ (where my mom was born!). I don't remember seeing any mountains going through Flagstaff on one of our family vacations growing up. All I can recall was that we were on the freeway and then we stopped somewhere to take a break and it was hot out (around 109 degrees--even though it was a "dry" heat [not humid], it still was hot!).
Was a bit surprised to learn that the speed limit for trucks in California is 55-MPH. I also found it interesting that southeastern California is a desert region surrounded by mountains. I guess I sort of knew that, but seeing if firsthand brings it home. Even though I've never been to Egypt, it struck me that this is the type of scenery the Jews had to wonder around in for 40-years before entering into their promised land. However, from what I understand, parts of Egypt (where the Jewish nation roamed) is really, really barren. It's staggering to think that 1-2 million people (Jews) wandered around in the desert of Egypt like nomads for 40-years before being allowed to settle in their promised land. Can you picture 1-2 million modern day American's roaming around together in the desert...for just 40-days? No way Jose!
I did see traces of the large amounts of rain the area west of Flagstaff received from last weeks storms. Low-lying areas had become temporary lakes. Along certain sections of I-40 in California, there were ponds and lakes as well. Should be interesting to see the landscape as I approach LA tomorrow. However, come to think of it, most of that drive will be in the dark.
Got as far as Barstow, CA today where I-40 ends.
miles driven = 670
10:23:28 PM
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