The LONGEST day ever...

What a day! It feels like we've been around the world and back again. In total, we drove 12 hours, went through Colorado, New Mexico, and finally arrived in Arizona. The mileage was too high to record, and the mountains we climbed were too numerous to even recall.

Here's the quick rundown of our day with a few pictures:

1. We began our day in the Royal Gorge, and it was spectacular! We walked across the highest suspension bridge and down the highest incline railroad in the world. It was a great way to spend the morning.

2. We journeyed through the gorgeous mountains of Colorado on I-50. It could very well be the most beautiful place in the country.

3. Outside of Durango, the car overheated as we went up incline after incline. Thankfully, we were able to coast to a town down the mountain, and with the guidance of Noah by phone and a nice couple from Texas, we were able to find some coolant and temporarily fix it. It was a scary drive!

4. We began our 300+ mile journey from Durango to the Grand Canyon as the sun was setting, and now know to NEVER, EVER drive through the Painted Desert--or anywhere in the West--at night. Animals, mountains, big trucks, and fast cars don't mix with our idea of fun.

5. Just before midnight we arrived in the Grand Canyon--though we can't tell it exists yet because it is so dark here and the trees surround the highway. And for another lucky streak, our hotel reservation got mixed up here, but, finally--finally!--after going to three hotels, we have finally settled in for the night.

We are hoping tomorrow brings better fun and more rest. The Grand Canyon would never dare to fail us!

Peace--
HGJ