We decided to take a slightly less optimized route across the continent so that we could see a little bit more of the country rather than simply reversing our original NY to LA route of 11 years ago.

Thus, we turned north at Albuquerque and kept the Rockies in sight for most of today's drive. We ended up in Colorado Springs where the motel had a swimming pool, which we all enjoyed after being in the car the entire day.

I have no pictures to prove it, but the city of Albuquerque has the most attractive freeway over- and underpasses that I've ever seen. At least in the main area of the city that we traveled, they're all painted turquoise, and the supporting banks and walls have been artfully decorated. Rather than just plain stone as most places, they've used rocks of various shades to depict designs and patterns. More places should follow their lead.



Kelley previews her Halloween costume in the hotel room.