Camel Butte & other Natural Wonders

"It is impossible in a few pages to do justice, in the smallest degree, to the great gorge itself - "that sublimest thing on Earth" - or to the perils and adventures of our journey through it. What then shall we write?" ~Robert Stanton

Really, what shall we write? Standing in front of the Grand Canyon is difficult to describe in words that would even come close to the feeling of looking out at the beauty of this natural wonder.

Since we drove our trusty Thunderbird alongside, not over, the South rim of the Canyon, we were able to stop at numerous viewpoints, each offering a different perspective of the Canyon.

Although we were nervous due to our anxiety of heights, we managed to cling to each other while a nice gentleman captured this moment.

A little too close to the edge there?

We felt much safer grounded.

For those of you that have not seen the Grand Canyon, it is far prettier than these pictures can represent.

Look! Arizona has wildlife, although not the cuddly Santana/Chelsea Lou kind...

As we drove our way into Utah from Arizona, we stopped at "Monument Valley," a lesser known natural gem. Monument Valley is a grouping of ancient rock formations that used to be under the Gulf of Mexico and, through time and the changing of the Earth, appeared during the Jurassic period.

Notice the cars in the picture below, for that is how you drive through Monument Valley. So, we took the Thunderbird/sort of too small to be "off-roading" Nissan down the very rocky, uneven, dirt road.

Maybe it was listening to "I hope you dance" in the car that prompted our dancing session in the sun.

This is a rock formation called "Camel Butte." It really does look like a camel!!

Situated around Monument Valley are many Navajo and Apache Native American tribes. We thought this photo captured the essence of the valley and the sacredness surrounding the rock formations.

What a wonderful "glasses-hat" Mother Earth day.

Life on the Road

What is it like to be on the road?


It is hard to describe. Luckily,our friend Scott wrote us a letter before our trip began that beautifully captures the feeling of being on the road. We did not want to be the only two eyes that read this beautiful note:


So you're there, wheeling down that endless road, your destination as uncharted as your mind. Do you feel it, that small tickle in your spine, steadily growing, and quickly approaching terminal levels of sensation? It's the freedom, the freedom of the road, the freedom from life, the freedom to see and think and do what you will and want. It's a freedom that most people will never understand; so afraid are they of taking the small chances needed to reap the huge rewards available from a risky life. But you're there, taking those small chances, reaping those large rewards.


The road is a strange thing in the realm of man. Far too often it's a conduit to nothing, a stretched doorway from one repressive existence to another, when the sheer promise of its offerings are left unexplored and largely ignored. The road is the epitome of that most human need to explore, to discover, and in doing so find a semblance of meaning in the menacing world that surrounds us. I hope that you take the time to find that meaning, because it's there, among the gas stations and empty miles, in the rocks and trees, waiting for you, waiting to be found and appreciated. There is never quite so easy a place to think than along those empty miles, but even thinking isn't a strong enough a word. Contemplating, evaluating, analyzing, all are better words for the strands of subliminal reasoning that those gentle bumps provide. It's easy to lose yourself in those times, to lose the foundation upon which the actuality of life is built on, because the whole mess is just so damn romantic, in a way that a sedentary life can never approach.


Men and women have lost their minds searching for the experience they found there, so try to find your own search for that existential drug and come back to us all the better for it. Follow your thoughts more than the maps, and go look at the big ball of yarn, if only because you can. ~Scott Harris

A sureal evening in Williams, Arizona

Since we had such a fantastic experience at the Cottonwood Inn, we did some research on Bed & Breakfasts near the Grand Canyon. We found one in Williams, Arizona, about 1 hour outside of the Grand Canyon situated on historic Route 66, for a very low price.
Thelma can recall only a few times in her life when she simply could not contain her laughter and walking into the "Bed & Breakfast" in Williams, AZ is now one of them. It didn't help that Louise was crying tears of confusion and hilarity at the situation.

Looks like we're home...in Louise's faint whisper "Oh God, we're going to die..."



Maybe we should not have listened to a James Patterson murderer mystery before entering our room, lined with costumed bears. Needless to say, we slept with mace under our pillows.

Someone found a friend. But he's not real (creepy!)

We did have a delicious, Southern meal at a local diner, with wonderful homemade pies. Louise ordered the rotisserie chicken. Little did she know, it was actually half of a chicken. The waitress then stated, in a joking but still creepy manner, "sweetheart, you gotta eat that whole thing before you leave." Visions of the Cottonwood Inn's chickens swirled through her head.

When checking in, Birdie, yes that was actually her name, asked us with a gruff, kind of haunting voice, "Are ya'll going to the shootout?" I'm sorry, what??? So, we ventured down historic Route 66 until we came upon a couple of cowboys surrounded by what looked like the entire town of Williams, AZ (50 people...)

This video will highlight the randomness we are embracing on this trip.

Remember how we asked each other "where are we?" in Taos? We turned to each other during the shootout, and asked the same question. Although this time, the question had a much different meaning.

Throw off the bowlines: New Mexico, Part 2

In the first hour of our road trip, before we even crossed the Georgia state line, we had a discussion of things we've never done but always wanted to try. There are numerous things on Thelma's "Road Trip Bucket List," one of which is riding a horse. We couldn't think of a better place to fulfill this bucket list dream than in New Mexico.



After a breakfast of champions, again, at the Cottonwood, we traveled out to Cieneguilla Stables, where we met Melissa and her band of merry horses.

On our two and a half hour trip, we traveled along the Apache Trail, and discovered a newfound beauty among the mountains of New Mexico. Melissa, an excellent tour guide, made many stops along the way to point out Native American pottery remains and different geological wonders.

In Louise's words (who has ridden since the age of 8, English style) Thelma took to riding like a pro. Thelma claims that she owes it all to Santana, her beautiful spotted Appaloosa, whose only fault being that she stopped many times to eat. Thelma didn't want to give the horse a complex so she often lagged behind a bit...

Melissa chose Chelsea Lou for Louise's journey on horseback. As a twenty-year-old, Chelsea Lou was still fiesty and had a bit of an attitude, hence why Melissa chose the most experienced rider to be her companion.

We look like cowgirls, minus the sneakers and lack of cowgirl hats.

Although we had planned an afternoon hike, our ride through the wilderness took more out of us than expected, if only we could have foreshadowed the next morning when we both woke up and said "owwwww," our pain then would pale in comparison. Instead of a hike, we chose to relax in our chairs, go to dinner, and see a New Mexican sunset.

We dined at "Orlandos," an authentic New Mexican restaurant. When we say authentic, we literally mean that we ate in silence as we panted, sweated, and burned any tastebuds left in our mouths. To say the meal was spicy would be an understatement.

On our last night in Taos, we drove to the Rio Grande Gorge to see our first New Mexican sunset. With our road trip anthem on full blast, thank you Something Corporate, we sang our way to the setting sun. Barely making it before it set (that was fast!) we got out of our trusty Thunderbird and witnessed one of nature's greatest wonders.

You must travel to New Mexico, if only to see a sunset.

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do then by the ones that you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." ~Mark Twain

Goodbye Taos. You will forever be the backdrop to our dreams.

NeedleWind: Taos, New Mexico, Part One

During a family vacation to Sante Fe, NM, Thelma's brother Johnny wrote a song entitled "Needlewind." A quote from the song that rings true about Taos is: "I can take it all in, but can I breathe it out?" The beauty of Taos, NM is hard to describe but can be stated simply as breathtakingly beautiful. On the first night of our trip, Louise turned to Thelma and said, "This place captures a part of the soul." Thelma, with the ever-present tears in her eyes, replied, "Yes. The peaceful part."

Since we are trying to remain spontaenous about how long we stay in one particular place (hence, less than 24 hours in Dallas...), we magically stumbled upon "The Cottonwood Inn: Bed & Breakfast." Louise was unsure of what exactly a Bed & Breakfast entailed and was a bit weary when the Inn was listed as a romantic getaway for two. Thelma reassured her that although she most definitely would cuddle, they did not have to be "partners" to enjoy the luxuries that this place claimed to offer.

From the homemade soaps, the friendly Innkeepers, the lovely rooster that we awoke to daily, to the gourmet breakfasts that greeted us every morning, this place was BLISS. A little utopia. Many times during our trip, we turned to each other and said, "where are we?" (again, with tears...) Although we only booked two nights, we could not leave this peaceful abode, so we stayed 3 nights.

A view from the back porch where we had breakfast....with Brantley, one of our hosts that we longed to call "Dad" as we drove away from the Inn on the third day...but we thought that might be weird.

One of the AMAZING breakfasts. Brantley noticed that Thelma did not eat her bacon the previous morning, so he surprised her with vegan sausage. Do you see why we did not want to leave?

The chairs. The infamous chairs. The reason why this blog is a few days overdue.

Winston, one of the Cottonwood Inn mascots. Look at those eyes...precious.

After we pealed ourselves away from the glorious chairs, we ventured into Arroyo Seco, a small town located about 2 miles from the Inn. This is an artist community filled with painters, sculptors, and potters. We met a friendly Potter named Scott who volunteered to take us on an adventure. Thelma said, "sure!" and Louise said "we'll get back to you."

St. Francis of Asis, located in Taos, is one of the most artistically replicated churches in the world.

During one of our many conversations about life (Thelma gets her inquisitive nature from papa john, the king of "if" questions) we venture into the "what will you be doing in 10 years?" question. Without a beat, we created our perfect plan.

In 10 years, after Brantley has generously given us the Cottonwood Inn at a reduced rate, Louise and Thelma will reside in Taos...Thelma, with a husband and possibly 1 child, and Louise with a man and 2 horses. We will run a Center for the Creative Arts, where Louise will head the acting workshops and Thelma the writing workshops. Louise will have a compost and Thelma will take baths and make smoothies.

We adore Taos.

Two-Steppin Texas

Although Louise is tempted to begin this blog with a rant about Texas roads and their idiotic design, she will spare you those details and rant about Texas in general. (Thelma is giving her the "be nice" look).

After an 8 hour trek from New Orleans to Dallas, we entered cowboy land with an unimpressed Louise and quite confused Thelma. "Where is my small, country city, with cowboys and saloons?" asked Thelma. Louise laughed. Obviously, Dallas already failed to impress one of us.

Since our concierge in New Orleans became our best friend, we figured we would ask the Days Inn lady for authentic places to eat Dallas cuisine with which she replied, "Of course. Just down the road is a Red Lobster and one stoplight further we have an Olive Garden." Now, Dallas failed to impress both.

We took matters into our own hands and found the biggest honkey tonk in the US, BILLY BOBS. With our cowgirl boots and flowered dresses, we ventured into the great unknown of Texas entertainment.

After arriving at Billy Bobs, we decided (since going out on the dance floor as a two-steppin' couple might turn a few conservative cowboy hats our way in a not so friendly way) to entertain ourselves, hence the photoshoot below.

Where have all the cowboys gone?

oh, Bull Riding! Too bad there were no bulls to ride.....RUDE.

I think we'll pass....

After our short stay in Dallas, we began our 11 hour trip to Taos, New Mexico. Below is a picture of what the first 9 hours looked like. However, we did find ways to make the time fly by...thank goodness for books on tape that spark cheesy, romantic conversations. (If you could describe, in detail, your perfect date, what would it be? This conversation lasted an hour....) If only we had a tape recorder.

Everything is bigger in Texas. For $1.39, look what someone found to eat!

While on I-40, all of a sudden, Louise shrieked and exclaimed, "Oh my goodness, we have to turn around!" Puzzled, Thelma looked around at the open road and thought Louise ate way too much cinnamon bun. But, to her astonishment, a Road Trip staple, "Cadillac Graveyard" magically appeared to their left.

We pulled over. And someone went frolicking to release a calf cramp. Remember, ELEVEN HOURS!

Vintage Cadillacs buried by an artist in the 60's and grafitied over time. Very cool!

Thanks to a Pennsylvanian, motorcyle ridin' couple, we were able to capture the first completely random road trip gem.

We made it through Texas. Most people that travel long distances in cars get quite moody and unhappy. Instead, with the first glimpse of breathtaking New Mexican mountain views, Louise glanced over at Thelma and said, "are you crying?" Thelma replied, "We are no longer in Texas and this is just so beautiful..." And then....Louise started to cry too.

"Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home." John Muir

Make music not war: Day 3 in New Orleans

After two days of sightseeing and walking around New Orleans, on day three we decided to keep it simple: great food, great music. Street performers are everywhere in the city, showcasing so much incredible talent. We took our time, strolling through the city and stopping at each corner where people danced, sang, and entertained. Here is a picture of our favorite duo:

Street Dancing!

We, again, split a New Orleans staple. This time, from "Johnny's PoBoy," and we chose a fried shrimp PoBoy. DELICIOUS!

A trip to New Orleans isn't complete without a little shopping, well more than a little.... We stumbled across a small boutique located in the French quarter that tempted us with mimosas to go with our browsing. Two mimosas later we both left with a new article of clothing. Yay for new clothes...and drinks...while shopping.

New Orleans saved the best for last. Our farewell at Couchon's in the historical business district consisted of alligator (yes you read that correctly) shrimp chowchow and eggplant/shrimp dressing. All of which were exceptional examples of cajun food. If we had to choose, cajun trumps creole.

Oh, and we had zuchinni salads with goat cheese, pecans, parsley and a pecan vinigeratte. Also very scrumptious!

Farewell New Orleans!

Would you like a peanut? Days 2 NAWLINS

Thelma is tempted to begin this blog with a commentary of the amazing healthy choices at the hotel breakfast (oatmeal and fruit!) but since we will be telling you about numerous NAWLINS cuisine, she will spare you the details.

The day began with a 3 hour bus tour of: The French Quarter, The Garden District, Lakeview (Katrina damage area), and St. Louis Cemetary. A charming native tour guide highlighted some of New Orlean's premiere tourist attractions, while also, in his words, keeping it real and showing us "his hood."We learned many random, plus historical facts. For example, the French Quarter is mostly made up of Spanish built-homes. Also, Spanish moss is neither Spanish nor moss. And, it was used in the first Ford T model....until they were recalled due to BUGS. ewwww.

A tour highlight for Louise were the beautiful historical homes of the Garden District, where she would like to live...preferably beside of Sandra Bullock's new home. Louise is now taking offers for millionare husbands. Thelma, on the other hand, was captivated by the destruction of Katrina on Lakeview homes. Different strokes, people...

Here is a picture from the St. Louis cemetary, where Jefferson Davis was buried. That is, until Richmond (yes, we did a little cheer in the bus) took him to be placed in what is now "Hollywood Cemetary."



Per Jay Franck's recommedation, we went to "Mothers" to try an authentic PoBoy, which we learned really is just a fancy name for a sandwhich. We chose to split the catfish PoBoy which we quickly devoured. Thanks, Jay!

Another mindblowing aspect (besides the food) of New Orleans is the ability to drink alcohol on the streets...and people DO...ALL day long. Our second day in New Orleans could not have been prettier. Maybe if you look closely in the picture below you will find Huck Finn, sailing down the Mississippi River behind us. Sorry, teacher moment...

Jordan Gravely, and also every consierge and tour guide in New Orleans, suggested Cafe Du Monde to try their famous beignets, a doughnut funnel cake mix dumped with powdered sugar. "One-bite Thelma" called them "interesting" but she did at least try. "Many-bites Louise" LOVED them.

Okay, we know. Enough food pictures. But really, we are eating our way through this city. For dinner, we ate at Oliviers, a Creale restaraunt in the French Quarter. We, you guessed it, shared our dinner, which consisted of a Gumbo sampler and Shrimp Creole. Highly recommend!

The highlight thus far of the trip was Fritzels, a European Jazz Club located at the end of Bourbon Street (really, the end...past all of the bumpin & grindin clubs). We were entertained by a very impressive Jazz Quartet as well as 4 Argentian men, 3 of them psychiatrists. They introduced themselves with an endearing question, "Would you like a peanut?" Not knowing how to turn away, Thelma said "sure!" and then we both continued to try to understand these very friendly men, one of which did not speak ANY English, except for the words "I don't understand." Many beers and misunderstood words later, we come to find out that they believe the entire United States to be like New Orleans, for this was their first night ever on American soil. We just shook our Martinsvillian heads.

This story continues, but not here...


Hasta Manana.

Here is a video treat from the evening.