South Dakota

After some amazing time in New Mexico, expecially sunset at the Monastery of Christ of the Desert we have worked our way north to South Dakota. Tonight, after driving through the incredible beauty of the Black Hills we found ourselves in Deadwood, eating burgers during a reinactment of the murder of Wild Bill Hickok at the actual saloon where he was killed. I'm such a tourist. I love the feel of the old west places, even if they are mostly for the tourist. Listening to the wind in the pines as I fall asleep must be what heaven sounds like. Tomorrow, Mt. Rushmore, Devil's Tower, and the Badlands before we head further east to spend time with Stefanie and the grand kiddies. I miss you all and wonder how you are. We will go to church on Sunday at my sponsoring parish, St. John's, Mt. Prospect, Il, Barbara Slones and my home parish. Peace to you all.

Carefree, AZ

Today is a non driving day in Arizona. We are staying in a beautiful Lutheran retreat house north of Phoenix. They offer 2 free nights for clergy on sabbatical. We are relaxing, swimming, reading, and enjoying quiet time before we hit the road again. We bypassed the Grand Canyon because we had such a late start yesterday and were heartily weary of the car. I figure the Grand Canyon will still be there next time. I am amazed by the diversity of the different types of desert eco systems. Tomorrow we begin early to head for New Mexico.

Leaving LA

LA is behind us now...the rest of the trip in front of us. We visited the Giant Trees in the Sequoia National Forest. It was beautiful, like being in a cathedral made of trees. This is Shireen beside the most massive tree in the world.

From LA we made our way to Las Vegas (and Gomorrah). I had never been there before. It was like an adult Disney Land mixed with scenes from Blade Runner. The Bellagio fountain was absolutely stunning.

This morning we will head toward Phoenix and a Lutheran Retreat House by way of the Grand Canyon. I am homesick and miss my husband and friends. You are in my prayers and thoughts and even in my dreams.