No photos until tomorrow. Sorry. I uploaded and sorted the 300+ from my camera this morning. 700+ on Gary’s camera to upload later. And I like to sort and organize. Then I’ll start posting- lots of great photos of the grandchildren and scenery and animals. And don’t forget the Underground Gardens!
I have enough blog material for a month! But I want to start with some general observations about our trip. You know I’m a “people watcher” and I’ve been known to talk to strangers even though it embarrasses and bewilders my son. One of the things you can’t help but notice on a road trip like ours is that despite any of our ethnic or regional or economic differences, we’re all drawn to the wonder of nature. Our stops at “scenic” views were always crowded with other vacationers clicking away with their cameras and marveling along with everyone else that such a thing exists. This was especially true at the beach. No matter how often you see it, one cannot observe the power of the ocean without feeling awe. We met a couple from Vermont who were on their way to the Grand Canyon. They had a whole group of relatives with them, all eager to see the natural wonder. We also had breakfast one morning with a nice older couple who were on their way to Yellowstone, for the 21st time!
Another thing I especially noticed on this trip was how generic our towns and cities have become. Yes, there is a vast difference between the character and culture of Fresno, CA and Salt Lake City, UT, but I also know that I can shop at WalMart, eat at McDonald’s, and buy a shirt at Old Navy in almost any city in America. Slow down along any major highway and you will find the same ten fast food places. Go to a mall and you can almost forget which city you are in because they all have the same major stores.
Families are alive and well in America! It was such a joy to see families traveling, to watch soccer games and baseball games in small towns, to see children playing in the parks and joyously screaming in the water parks. I overheard the same conversations between parents and children that I would hear at home. I even talked with some parents of kindergarten children! With all of the gloom and doom news reports each night, it is nice to know that people are still doing the best they can to raise the next generation.
Enough for today… I have a dirty house, piles of laundry, an overgrown garden, and piles of paperwork clamoring for attention. And I have to finish those photos! Tomorrow I’m going to tell you about the best grandchildren in America- mine! J
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