The last week and half has been a whirlwind of activity! After leaving Flagstaff, we explored Zion National Park in Utah, which was absolutely amazing! I was awestruck by the huge, red cliff faces and the crisp blue sky. We went for a short, 2 mile hike, which was enough in the 90+ degree temps of late morning.
From there, we drove north and camped on Antelope Island in the great Salt Lake. It was bizarre to be in such a peaceful natural place next to such a large city. That was compounded by the surreal-ness of the way the landscape around the lake resembled the ocean side. We heard lots of coyotes and saw an antelope, too.
After that, we were at Burning Man for 4 days and I have never had such a fun time anywhere. After being stuck in a 40mph sand storm for several hours at the gate, the next four days were a somewhat sleep deprived bliss. It's hard to describe what it feels like to be in a place where self expression is limitless and uncensored and where the gift economy is the only means of exchange. The energy there was so positive and creative and it was incredibly hard to leave before the end of the festival. But, I have some great memories, made some new friends and now know that people from all walks of life can come together and live in peace in one of the harshest places in the world (at least for 10 days). I can not wait to go back next year!!!
It was quite a drive from Black Rock City to Lincoln City, OR. We drove straight for 13 hours to reach the glorious Pacific Ocean and much cooler temperatures. I am still adjusting to being in 60 degree weather after a month of consistently sunny and hot days! The beach house was great and the company even better. We played games, hot tubbed and drank way too much. I did manage to catch up on sleep, though.
Now we're in Portland for another night before heading to Seattle. Portland is wonderful, though I'm apparently one of the last people to know this. I would definitely consider moving here! So far, I plan to apply to grad schools in Albuquerque, Flagstaff and Portland.
We begin our eastward trek on Friday morning. On the way home we will go through Yellowstone, visit two friends of mine in CO, visit some of Rachael's family in St. Louis, visit my family on the Cape then head home. Of course, the drive through Kansas will be the most exciting part of that journey!
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1 comment:
Mel, I have enjoyed reading your log entries and laughed when you wrote that you plan to apply to colleges in some of the states you so enjoyed. I just knew you two would love one place as much or more than the one before. Isn't this an incredible country! I also appreciated your comment on our national park system. Can't wait to see you later this week. I hope you are coming to Common Ground on Friday and/or Saturday!
love and hugs
Deena
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