Today was day 8, and beyond a doubt the most boring of the bunch. I felt behind, despite being on a a very liberal time table. There was really nothing to see throughout New Mexico, unless you are into casinos, and I don't gamble. I did hear an ad on the radio for KISS scratch tickets, so I made 4 extra stops at gas stations and liquor stores to find a few for my friend Flex, but no one had any. Thus, I was kind of pissed.
Stopped in Gallup, and found myself in a very real part of the country that is so much more than places around it but, in the face of the greater picture, is quite small. Very interesting. I don't know the tribe, but I did hear some native language while devouring my donut at the local bakery in Gallup. My mind set wasn't right at the time, but even now I feel better about the experience and realize that I will continue to.
Next thing I know, I'm outside Flagstaff during their 19 square mile brushfire. I could see the smoke from almost sixty miles away. Fortunately, none of the roads I needed were closed, and it's a good thing I chose to go Route 10 into CA, because otherwise I'd be bunking up somewhere near Flagstaff for the night. That fire is no joke. I guess I should get used to such things.
17 South is easily the most beautiful road that I've been on during this trip. Winding roads through trees and canyons, and the road felt soft, almost entwined with the car. It was incredible. The only recent parallel I can think of is Route 15 between Connecticut and New York. Despite the differences in landscape, they are very similar. 2 lane highways full of beautiful landscape.
Against my better judgement, in want of a shower and no human contact, I pulled off 10 miles south of Phoenix to use the facilities and grab a drink. Sure enough, I find a local that advises me to avoid Phoenix and go to Scottsdale. Even better,they know the owner of a good hotel near Old Scottsdale. So I find myself in a Clarion Suites for 58 bucks. The nicest room I've had so far.
Ultimately, a couple of nice circumstances after a very boring and lonely day. Tomorrow onto LA, that's where the real loneliness will be waiting. I love LA. Honestly. But I have felt some of the loneliest moments of my life there. I have some sites to see on the way. And I'm looking forward to making a go of all this. A week ago, I was too in anticipation of my destination. Now I want my journey. But I realize how natural that is. They journey is a product of my state of mind. And I found myself in Scottsdale, which is lovely, as opposed to Phoenix tonight. It's very Southern Cal here, palm trees, outdoor restaurants. But I just don't get that without the ocean. I want to make my mark in San Diego.
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