Sprinting Across America

I usually take my time going back and forth between Missouri and New Mexico. I like to take three days to cover the 1,000 miles and usually get off the interstate a few times just to see the side roads or to follow old Rt. 66. This trip is more of a sprint because I need to get to the house before the movers. I got a late start yesterday and got to Tulsa. I figured from Tulsa to Albuquerque in one day with only me driving would be too much so I decided to stop at Tucumcari for the night and then go the two hours into Albuquerque early in the morning.  Well, I got to Tucumcari before 4 PM (Mountain time) and could have staggered into Albuquerque before dark....but I already had motel reservations and would lose my money if I just kept going. Plus, I tend to get sleepy and that is a rugged descent into Albuquerque....I'd rather be wide awake.

My motel is the Best Value Inn in Tucumcari. Guess what....it is owned by the same (east)Indian family that used to own the Econolodge --  but it doesn't smell like curry so that's OK.  They try to keep a clean motel although some minor maintenance is needed.  The ice machine is broken so the wife will fetch you some ice in a small baggy if you need some. You can get two baggies if needed. They are nice and very friendly.

I ate at the Thunderbird Restaurant at the Pow-wow Motel, next to the Lizard Lounge. Had too much food.


I've been seeing these little travel/camping trailers on the road. I don't know if they are rented or if you buy them but they look pretty cool. I've been thinking about getting a camper shell for my pick-up truck but these look better.  They are very small. There is a bigger sized one with two windows.

Not much to say tonight. The weather has been great and traffic has been light.