Arizona Ramblings

As we start our third week on the biking adventure entering our third state.....a few words in review
THE RIDE
Beth seems to be more energized as the ride ascends into a higher altitude.  Maybe that clean air they all brag about out here is the answer.  I would think with a deep chest cold, reduced oxygen, and some steep climbs she would be looking to rest a little more.  Very focused, very determined....when the road ends just climb the fence, and jump on another one...wake up at 4 AM jump on that bike and pedal for 10 to 12 hours.  Ask yourself...how many of you are working 12 hour days in the outside elements without a day off?
THE WEATHER
I know the Midwest has had it's share of excessive storms,tornados, and rain.  People are suffering because of it.  We have been truly blessed with GREAT weather  thus far...gr8 planning? And good fortune.
ROUTE 66
If you're in to nostalgia and the 50's, 60's this is for you.  I especially enjoy eating old style home cooked food at these old diners.....from Needles, to Kingman, to Williams, to Flagstaff, to Winslow.......Miz Zip's, The Wagon Wheel...the Harley's from Uruguay, from Mexico, from all over the U.S.......now the reality...this is an era that is gone, and many of the people that are reliving it are aging....just like the towns, motels, and services that made/make their living off of it. This was before cell phones, I-pads, Internet, computers, cable TV, electronic games.  Time has passed many of these towns by, just like Interstate 40 does.  The next generation will not stop or take their time to see America and get "their kicks, on Route 66"
NATURAL BEAUTY
Northern Arizona is a beautiful place.....the 3000 foot climb out of Laughlin Nev. starts it off...the Grand Canyon is truly God's Creation and it is absolutely breath taking....The San Francisco Peak outside Flagstaff is majestic and has snow on it on June 1st!.... The petrified forest and painted desert outside Holbrook is a must see and stunning in every way.