Phoenix Rising

***Sorry, No Picture***

Two nights in Phoenix, Arizona. I had been to Phoenix several times, always flying in. This time it was to be a rest stop and I reserved a nice room. JoJo was in doggie heaven because the dog relief area was all grass. I had not seen that before or since. Rest areas on the highway have been all dirt as well as stickers stuck on the paw pads. I also won the jackpot. There was a washer/dryer nicely hidden in my room (no quarters needed) Like I say, it was a nicer room.

My full day there I set up a luncheon with my husband’s “baby” brother. We met for lunch and talked about memories and the man we both loved and lost. As for my bro-in-law, he is doing extremely well and is happy, truly happy. It is a blessing to check in on someone I don’t see often and know that he will be okay.

The second morning JoJo and I packed up and headed out. Las Cruces, New Mexico was waiting for us. Highway 10 is a straight path. No chance of me getting lost. About 2 hours in, I began to notice signs on the Highway, repeating every 10 miles or so. “Dust storms possible.” “If caught in one, pull to the side of the road.” “Turn off your engine.” “Keep your foot OFF the brake.” “Keep your seatbelt ON.” Interesting… Then, a dust cloud came up out of the Earth as if conjured by a wizard. And, of course, it came right across the road. A big, fat desert out there and it decides to come across my path. It disappeared fairly quickly but, in minutes another arose from nothing and enveloped my car. So, being the ever-obedient person I am, I … slowed down to 45 MPH and kept going. After all, I could still see (sort of) 40 feet ahead. Turns out, everyone did the same thing and when the dust cleared (now I know where that term came from) we were all gliding down the highway at about the same speed. I do know that one of us was quoting, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…” Once again, I survived and am here to tell my story.

I asked a delightfullly chatty lady behind the counter at the Circle K in Las Cruces (yes Joanne, I fill up the tank as soon as I can) if the dust storms ever hit the town. Let’s just say, I am crossing Las Cruces off my list of possible places to retire. It’s too bad. I filled my tank with $2.68/gallon gas and bought a giant gulpie (iced tea) for $1.05.

Driving through two states, I again saw a lot of desert. Texas promises more of the same. It makes you appreciate the natural beauty that is California. I want everybody to go out and kiss your Japanese Maples and roses. Getting pricked by a thorn is so much better than driving through a dust storm conjured by a wizard.

Next, Ozona TX. Until then, #ontheroadagain