Wow and wow! For all kinds of reasons. One, we’re halfway through our road trip. Two, we keep seeing wonderful things including magnificent desert scenery.

Three. We went to Carlsbad Caverns, which we may not have done except that Jim texted, “Hey why don’t you go. It’s on the way.” So there. We left the small town of Marfa (yes, with an f) filled with art and artists this morning. Got to Carlsbad about 1 pm. Did you know it was part of the National Parks? We went down in the elevator 750 feet! Incredible. There are pathways with a bar to hold. The limestone walls and ceilings and “floors” are so well lighted, gently and with the intent to highlight certain features but not make it a circus. I loved it. But I only continued a bit, maybe a quarter mile and then had Chris take me to a place I could sit. She then went back and did the entire mile and a half by herself. She said it was incredible.

On to Santa Fe. It did take five hours of driving.

Now we are in a Hilton Hotel having enjoyed the cuisine and the bar. Who can complain, although we are tired.

During the long drives we listen to podcasts. Thank goodness for NYTimes, especially Ezra Klein. And we listen to books on Audible . We’ve finished Michael Connelly’s “Waiting.” And Tony Hillerman’s “Dark Wind.”

Tomorrow is Georgia O’Keefe.