Flagstaff to Santa Fe

Back through the desert and the familiar spots we saw on our journey to Flagstaff; mesas, Painted Desert, petrified wood, Route 66, Continental Divide. As we neared Albequerque, the desert turned yellow because of the wildflowers in bloom. We knew when we were driving through Indian reservations because of all the casinos. The best ones had entertainment, though they were all has-been entertainers like Rick Springfield (Jessie's Girl), George Thorogood and the Destroyers (B-b-bad to the Bone) and The Go-Gos (I can't remember; I always get them mixed up with The Bangles). I kind of feel sorry for them, having to regurgitate their hit(s) to polite crowds who are probably more interested in the slots than the songs.

Santa Fe seems to be a neat town. There are strict building codes so all the buildings look like they are made of adobe and are one of about three shades of brown. I don't think there are many chain restaurants here; if there are, they are pretty well hidden. There are lots of museums, galleries and shops. It would be nice to spend some time here. But we are just passing through. Our hotel feels like an oasis after all the time in the desert. Green grass, birds chirping, functioning pool. Just a brief respite before our attempted marathon drive home tomorrow.