The Grand Canyon

Sporty and I took an unexpected sidetrip today to the Grand Canyon. It was not out of the way and was not in violation of my approved travel through federal supervision. It was my first time there.

We really lucked out. Snow is moving in on New Year's Eve, and while it was a cold crisp day, clear skies gave us an incredible view.

It's really amazing what beauty is around us that we just need to take a little sidetrip to see. It really provides such great perspective on life and the grandness of everything and the smallness of everything as well. If time was on my side, I would have figured out a way to stay warm, pull out a pad of paper, and write my mission statement for grad school right there. If the Grand Canyon can't provide inspiration, I'm not sure what can. Ah, but that wasn't to be today, so with the images on my head, and the serenity in my heart, I will simply use the energy of the day to provide me with my words and thoughts.

It's actually been a fairly perfect day so far (knock on wood). I sadly said "goodbye" to my ailing father, promising to see him again soon, rented a planned vehicle without incident (the temp printed license I was emailed from my state was accepted), and a nice drive to and now from the Grand Canyon. Our next stop is going to Sporty's cousin's home in another state, where we will also meet up with Joy who is also nearby visiting family. This is really a good winter trip. Most of all, though, it's been seeing my dad who I have been worried about and praying for so much that is the reason this trip was so important! I wish he could have gone to the Grand Canyon with me and even though he's been there, just had the opportunity to take in its vastness and wonder one more time.