Murphypalooza Day 18: An unexpected Fourth

Last Fourth of July, we were in Massachusetts and Mo and I talked about how in one short year we could truly be anywhere. On that day, I never would have guessed we would have been in Flagstaff, Arizona.

After a cool and rainy night, we woke up early, planning to hit the local parade then venture to Sedona to celebrate the holiday. But no one slept well and we were all dirty again from camping in a real campground, in the dirt. Then, we checked the weather only to find that thunderstorms were predicted for the day. Things didn't seem to be going our way.

We forged ahead, and went to the Flagstaff parade, which apparently is the largest in the state. We all had a great time. The boys especially liked the freebies and music. Mo and I liked the vanilla chais and cool temps for a change.

 

We went back to watch the trains when we had enough of the parade. The boys could have sat there for hours, counting engines and making up names for each type of car. But the skies were darkening and everyone was tired. We decided it was best to pack up and hit the road. So after a delicious lunch downtown, we bid sweet Flagstaff goodbye and once again, hit Route 66 then Route 40 west.

And then, after a few hours of driving, we made it!

A little earlier than expected.

With no signs of earthquakes.

A new house and neighborhood with pool and playground waiting.

In-n-Out already spotted.

And we were all in one piece!

We were all so excited to have made it to our new home state. And it worked out so well that we left when we did. We had time to set up camp in sunny Needles, bordering the Mojave Desert. We made dinner, the boys played (not in the dirt), we swam, and now we're sitting under the stars, peaceful, warm and thankful, listening to distant firecrackers.

We even saw palm trees.

Welcome to California! And happy Fourth of July.