few miles on I-5, we saw a sign stating that there was snow on the pass and that California Highway Patrol were escorting cars across. We were surprised but continued on. A couple miles later, another sign, this one stating that the road was closed ahead. We couldn't believe it. We were in Southern California, less than 2 hours from L.A., and we were getting stopped by snow. We sat in traffic for 20 minutes or so, thinking about our prospects for the day, back to Bakersfield with the knowledge that the Buck Owens museum was closed on Mondays. What were we going to do? Then, we started to move. We had to merge over a couple of lanes, and then we just got to go. There was no block, no police escorts, they were just letting us go. Confused but happy, we headed over the snowy, foggy pass and towards L.A.
We decided to skip Joshua Tree. We had been through too many weather related troubles and paranoia had set in. We headed for Barstow and took a quick detour on I-40. For those of you who have never driven west on I-40 in Wilmington, NC, there is a sign stating that Barstow, CA is 2,554 miles away. I've driven past this sign dozens of times and had to know if there was a similar sign in Barstow, the western edge of I-40.
After Barstow, we headed northeast towards Las Vegas. Neither of us had ever been and decided now was the time. We splurged a bit and stayed at the Westin, the bed at which Ramona loved. It was really amusing to walk through a casino with Ramona every time we needed to take her out to pee. We also took her for a walk along
the strip. Strangely, we didn't see any other dogs during our walk. Our only gambling involved betting on the Cubs to win the World Series and the Pirates to win the National League (which we realize can't both happen!).Today, we headed across the Hoover Dam to the Grand Canyon. Though there was snow on the ground, the roads were clear,
and we finally made it to a National Park! Though we didn't get to spend as much time as we would have liked (it was pretty damn cold), we had a great time. Tonight, we're staying in Sedona, watching Super Tuesday results (Hillary just won California---glad it's a proportional state). We got here after dark, so we are excited to explore in the morning. After that, we keep heading east!!Total mileage: 2,367.3
5 comments:
The Westin does have some of the comfiest beds, Ramona has good taste. How's she doing with the car? I'm glad you got to see a bit of Vegas and the Grand Canyon, maybe enough to peak your interest to come back during the warmer months. Safe travels eastwardly...
Man you guys look like you are having a blast besides all the weather woes....that is part of the fun...reminds me of one of our trips along highway 1 when it was dark and there was nothing around and it felt like we were in the twilight like zone......anyway im really enjoying reading and following your trip...keep it coming!!!!
penny
westin beds are nice. i stayed at the one in indy for a conference. good times. hope the next 2000 miles are smooth sailing.
That road sign is awesome! I feel more complete knowing that there is a counterpart on the other end of I-40.
Totally dig the sign thing too. Didn't you feel so connected b/c of that?
We should have thought to recommend our favorite brewery in Vegas. Hope you were able to have a fun time. Thinking about it now, I've never seen a dog there!
Otherwise, we loved Sedona, so I'm looking forward to reading the next bits of your story...
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