For my trip to Louisiana, I rode with my brother, David, and gave him directions while the kids, his wife, and his wife's friend went ahead in the other car. We spent the night in Flagstaff, AZ, Albuquerque, NM, and Dallas, TX, before arriving in Baton Rouge, LA. I spent one full day in Baton Rouge, and then flew back to Utah early the next morning. I wish I could have stayed longer since it is hard being away from my family, and it was also interesting seeing a new place that is so different from where I live. But at the same time, I am very happy to be back home where I feel most comfortable. I don't know what it is about the mountains, but I love them so much, I don't think I could live somewhere that doesn't have them. For me, they mean stability, direction, beauty, and something constant and permanent in an ever-changing civilization.
I didn't take many pictures during my ride to Louisiana because, well, there wasn't really much to see. Lots of barren desert in Arizona and New Mexico, grassy plains and windmills in Texas, and trees and moisture in Louisiana. Here are a few of the pictures I did take.
These are some rock formations I found interesting. I think they were in Arizona?
This was one of quite a few rivers we crossed. I seemed to have an obsession with taking pictures of the rivers, but I don't why because they are really not that interesting. So I will only subject you to the one picture.
This is the house from the t.v. show "Breaking Bad". David and I drove around in Albuquerque to find some of the show locations. It was fun not just because of seeing the show locations, but also because I was born in Albuquerque. My family moved away when I was still a baby, so it was was kind of special to re-visit the place where I first started my life. I would love to return sometime when I have more time to enjoy it.
This is what Louisiana looks like, in case you were wondering. Trees and trees for as far as you can see. Kind of pretty, but also makes you feel a little isolated. When we got to Baton Rouge on the fourth day, it was already evening and we had to unload the moving truck. However, the air conditioning wasn't working in the new apartment, and we had to carry things up two flights of stairs, so things got really sweaty really fast. I think I got a better workout that night than I have ever had in my life. The next day was all about unpacking, driving around and getting oriented to the new place, and getting a bunk bed for the kids. In all hustle, I never did get to try any true Louisiana food, which was something I really wanted to do. I guess I will just have to go back to visit when things have calmed down.
This post is on the verge of getting incredibly long, but I can't stop without writing a little about Mike and I's awesome weekend in Park City. I don't think I could have had a more perfect vacation. The hotel room was beautiful. The hot tub and pool were relaxing. The food was delicious. The zip line was exhilarating. Here are a few pictures of our very nice hotel room.
I don't think I have ever stayed in a room that nice. It even smelled fresh! In the morning, we took the complimentary shuttle to breakfast at a small cafe by the water. The view could not have been more gorgeous.
The rest of the day was spent conquering the zip-line, soaking in the pool, and strolling through the small shops on main street. Mike and I enjoyed every second of the much-needed relaxation. We only wish it could have lasted longer. I'm sure we will be returning in the future.
