The Home Stretch

Today was our longest day yet, approximately 700 miles, but we made it to Flagstaff, AZ, and are currently in our last hotel room of the sojourn.  We started in Texas, then drove through New Mexico, where we had a great authentic New Mexican meal in Albuquerque.  Tomorrow, we head to Brom's grandfather's house, where we have been graciously invited to spend the night.  And Tuesday, we roll out for L.A., where we have been invited to stay with his cousin.  Wednesday, we get a day in the City of Angels, and Thursday, I depart.  It will definitely be weird to get to our destination and not have to check out and drive hundreds of miles.
I suppose now is a good time to remark on the reactions we have been getting when we chat with people about what we're doing.  Even the gent who checked us in tonight mentioned how far we are from home.  Kinda weird considering he works in a hotel, but still... it seems like driving cross-country is a rarer occurrence than I thought, and when Brom tells them what is bringing him to L.A., the reaction is mixed to say the least.  Some folks admire the chutzpah, others wonder why he would want to live in L.A.  Either way, it's an adventure that I'm glad I didn't miss.
As we pulled off the highway to the hotel (onto to Rt. 66, no less), the sign read "HWY 40 Los Angeles."  Home stretch, indeed.