We've gone from Tucson's 100 degree weather to chilly winds in the Grand Canyon! We left Williams early and drove up to El Tovar Lodge. Built in the early 1900's as a Fred Harvey hotel along the railway route across the southwest, the hotel is a luxurious accomodation right next to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Lily was careful not to get to close to the edge. GrandBub had threatened to push her over if she didn't quit kicking him from the backseat and I think she believed him!
The gift shop at el Tovar is so fabulous it could be 
a museum, with rugs and jewlery that were abundant and beautiful
From the Grand Canyon, we drove east and then north across route 89A, soaking in the vastness and beauty of northern AZ. From really desolate, to breathtakingly awesome, the drive meandered across Indian Reservation and National and State Lands. The Vermillion Cliffs looked like they must have Indians watching from the lofty tops. Lily tells me there are no longer "wild" Indians, but, surely, there must be many spirits out here.
As we go into Utah, Bub remarks on the lack of bars....we've hit Mormon country! It was a long drive today as we pass ranches on the way to Bryce Canyon, where we have a cabin reserved.
Well, this was a startling discovery...I thought I had reserved our stay at the Bryce Canyon Lodge in the National Park and discover when we are checking directions, we are staying at the Bryce Canyon Resort, which is on the main highway and is a motel-like combination of rooms, cabins and RV hook-ups.
Bub is 
very disappointed (thwarted expectations can cause all sorts of frustration) but Lily is just happy to be out of the car and able to go swim in the nice, indoor, heated pool.
The trip is teaching me some lessons!
Today's include:
- DoubleCheck all reservations BEFORE you leave on the trip (and probably this is also an example of don't book things when you are tired!)
- Everyone doesn't enjoy the scenery and driving as much as I do
- With a 7 year old, simple pleasures are all it takes...stop more often, swim, read
We are off to Zion and to meet up with a friend I've never met in person!
This was great! I walked right along with you in the story and happy you had a good time...yup, there's always something we learn from 'vacations'. I always learn it's a bunch of work lol
Having such a good time following your travels and learning from your lessons. So easy for me..no packing. Keep enjoying each other and your wonderful 5000 mile journey. Post when you can...I will be reading.
Sounds like: so far so good, with only a minor glitch. Glad to hear your having a good time - keep the news coming!
Sally, Margaret & Vicky,
Thanks for your nice comments! We are having fun! Thanks for reading. Hugs and smiles, J