California Road Trip: Kingman, AZ

by Rob | Apr 27, 2026 | Road Trips

Overnight Stop in Kingman, Arizona and My First In-N-Out Burger Experience

After a long day of driving across Arizona, we made an overnight stop in Kingman before continuing west on our cross-country road trip. We stayed at the Clarion Inn Kingman I-40 Route 66, which turned out to be a comfortable and relaxing place to recharge for the night. The hotel was clean, quiet, and conveniently located near Interstate 40, making it an easy stop for travelers making their way across Route 66 and the Southwest. After spending long hours on the road, having a nice clean room and friendly atmosphere made the evening much more enjoyable.

One thing I wanted to try while traveling through the western United States was the famous In-N-Out Burger. Since there are no locations near home in Florida, this was my first opportunity to finally see what all the hype was about. The restaurant was busy and clearly very popular with both locals and travelers passing through town. The burgers were fresh, the service was fast, and the food was good, but after hearing so much about it over the years, I personally felt it was a little overrated.

Everyone has their own burger preferences, but for me, I still prefer Five Guys burgers overall. I enjoy the thicker burgers, larger topping selection, and fresh-cut fries that Five Guys offers. That said, trying In-N-Out Burger was still a fun part of the road trip experience and one of those iconic stops you almost feel required to make when traveling through the Southwest.

After getting some rest in Kingman, the adventure continues with the next major stop: Hoover Dam. The drive toward Nevada and seeing Hoover Dam for the first time was an experience all its own, and that will be featured in the next blog post from this unforgettable Florida-to-California road trip.

California Road Trip: Grand Canyon, Arizona

by Rob | Apr 27, 2026 | Road Trips

Driving from Gallup to the Grand Canyon Through Flagstaff and the Arizona High Country

Leaving Gallup and heading west on Interstate 40 toward Arizona is one of the most scenic stretches of a cross-country road trip. As the miles roll by, the landscape slowly changes from the rugged red rock terrain of New Mexico to the pine-covered mountains surrounding Flagstaff. One of the most beautiful sights along the drive is seeing the towering San Francisco Peaks rise in the distance, with Humphreys Peak standing above the rest as the tallest mountain in Arizona. The snow-capped peaks during cooler months create a stunning backdrop while traveling through northern Arizona on I-40.

After passing through Flagstaff, the journey turns north onto Highway 89 before connecting to Highway 64 toward the East Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park. This route offers a gradual and unforgettable introduction to the canyon unlike the more crowded South Entrance approach. As you drive farther north, the terrain begins to open up and the early formations of the Grand Canyon slowly appear along the eastern side of the park. The views become more dramatic with every mile, giving travelers several opportunities to stop at scenic overlooks before even reaching the main visitor areas.

One of the first major highlights along this route is Desert View Watchtower. Perched along the rim, the historic stone tower offers incredible panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River far below. There are numerous pull-off areas and viewpoints nearby where visitors can take photos, stretch their legs, and fully appreciate the massive scale of the canyon. Many travelers spend 15 to 30 minutes exploring the area before continuing west along Desert View Drive deeper into the park.

Desert View Watchtower

Continuing farther into the park eventually leads to Mather Point near Grand Canyon Village, one of the most famous viewpoints in the entire national park. The expansive views from Mather Point are breathtaking, especially for first-time visitors seeing the canyon open up before them. The national park itself is open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to experience sunrise, sunset, or even nighttime stargazing along the rim. There is an entrance fee to enter the park, while the visitor center near Mather Point typically closes around 4 p.m., so arriving earlier in the day allows more time to explore exhibits and gather information before beginning your adventure.

Us at Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon at Mather Point

Plateau Point?

Grand Canyon and the Colorado River

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon and Colorado River

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon at Mather Point

Grand Canyon and Plateau Point

Grand Canyon

Driving from Gallup to the Grand Canyon through Flagstaff combines mountain scenery, desert landscapes, and one of the greatest natural wonders in the world into a single unforgettable day on the road. From the towering San Francisco Peaks to the dramatic overlooks along Desert View Drive, this route offers constant reminders of the beauty and scale of the American Southwest.

California Road Trip: Gallup, New Mexico

by Rob | Apr 26, 2026 | Road Trips

A Stop on Route 66: Staying at Hotel El Rancho in Gallup, New Mexico on a Florida to California Road Trip

Driving from Florida to California is the kind of road trip that feels like several vacations in one, and one of the most memorable stops along the way is Gallup, New Mexico. Right off historic Route 66 sits the iconic Hotel El Rancho, a place that instantly transports travelers back to the golden age of Western films. Built in 1937 by R.E. “Griff” Griffith, the hotel quickly became a favorite lodging spot for Hollywood stars filming in the surrounding desert landscapes of New Mexico.

Hotel El Rancho Sign

Hotel El Rancho

Us at Hotel El Rancho

Motel El Rancho

Outside, travelers should note that the road in front of the hotel does not have a dedicated sidewalk, so pedestrians often walk through the front parking lot. While there are typically one or two security guards on duty until a certain time, the atmosphere felt safe and relaxed during a Sunday night stay with no issues.

Walking into the hotel lobby feels like stepping into a living museum of classic cinema and Old West charm. The interior is decorated with mounted animal heads, rustic wood accents, and vintage Western memorabilia that reflect the hotel’s deep Hollywood roots.

One of the most unique features of the hotel is its layout and nostalgic design details. The rooms are spread across multiple floors, and the old-style elevator still operates with a manual gate and door that guests open and close by hand, adding to the vintage experience.

First Sight

Staircases

Lobby and Front Desk

Corner View

Looking Down into the Lobby

Looking Down towards the Front Doors

Second Staircase

Another view of the Lobby

Looking at the Lobby from the Second Floor

Front Doors

Second Floor Hallway

Vintage Shoe Shine

Photo

Photos and Painting

Second Floor Bookcases

Second Floor Memorabilia

Right Staircase and Front Desk

Piano

Vintage Cigarette Machine

Second Floor Hallway

Hotel El Rancho has approximately 80 rooms named after famous movie stars and entertainers who stayed there during the golden age of Hollywood Western filmmaking. Each room door features a nameplate honoring stars such as John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, and Katharine Hepburn while they filmed movies in the surrounding New Mexico desert.

John Wayne

Ronald Reagan

Jane Wyman

Our Room – Barbara Peyton

Humphrey Bogart

Gene Autry

Katharine Hepburn

Shirley Temple

Jimmy Stewart

Robert Taylor

Mae West

James Cagney

Lucille Ball

Doris Day

Marx Brothers

The hotel is also home to the famous Silver Screen Café, where guests can enjoy hearty meals in a setting that celebrates classic Hollywood history. Adding to the fun atmosphere, several menu items are named after famous movie stars who once stayed at the hotel while filming Western movies in the New Mexico desert. Dining at the café feels like stepping back into the golden age of Hollywood while enjoying a relaxing meal along historic Route 66.

The famous Silver Screen Café

Debbie’s Rita Moreno Tacos

My John Wayne Burger and Fries

After dinner, visitors can explore the large gift shop and Ortega’s Indian Store, both filled with Route 66 souvenirs, El Rancho memorabilia, and authentic Navajo Indian crafts, jewelry, pottery, and artwork. The shops offer a unique opportunity to experience the rich Native American culture that Gallup is known for while also finding memorable keepsakes from the journey. It’s an ideal place to stretch your legs after a long drive and pick up something meaningful to remember a stay along historic Route 66.

Ortega’s Indian Store

Throughout Hotel El Rancho, the walls are lined with historic black-and-white photographs and large murals showcasing the famous actors and actresses who once stayed at the hotel during the golden age of Western filmmaking. Guests can see images of Hollywood legends such as John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, Katharine Hepburn, and many others who filmed movies throughout the rugged landscapes of New Mexico and Arizona. The photographs capture moments from movie productions, hotel visits, and promotional portraits that help preserve the hotel’s deep connection to classic Hollywood history.

The murals and framed photos add character and nostalgia to the hotel’s rustic Western atmosphere. As visitors walk through the hallways, lobby, and restaurant areas, it feels almost like touring a small Hollywood museum dedicated to the era of classic Western films. Many guests stop to admire the vintage images and read the names of the stars, imagining what life was like when movie crews filled the hotel decades ago. Combined with the wood décor, mounted animal heads, and historic furnishings, the photographs help make Hotel El Rancho one of the most unique and memorable Route 66 destinations in the Southwest.

Photos

Mural

Photos

Photo

Photos and Painting

Photos

Photo

Photos

Photo

Photos and Painting

Photos

What makes Hotel El Rancho truly special is not just its history, but the hospitality that still defines it today. Staff members are welcoming and proud to share stories about the property’s Hollywood past and its role along Route 66. For anyone driving across the country, it’s more than just a place to sleep—it’s a step into a different era, where the spirit of classic Western films and the open road still live on.

California Road Trip: Amarillo, Texas

by Rob | Apr 26, 2026 | Road Trips

Buc-ee’s Amarillo, Texas: The Ultimate Road Trip Stop for Food, Shopping, and Cheap Gas

Buc-ee’s in Amarillo, Texas, is much more than a gas station—it feels like a destination all on its own. Conveniently located along Interstate 40, the massive travel center is hard to miss with its enormous parking lot, rows of fuel pumps, and the famous Buc-ee’s beaver welcoming travelers inside. The Amarillo location opened in late 2024 and quickly became a popular stop for road trippers traveling across Texas and along historic Route 66. The store spans tens of thousands of square feet and features over 100 fuel pumps, making it one of the largest travel centers in the region.

Inside Buc-ee’s, visitors will find an incredible variety of fresh food, snacks, drinks, and merchandise. The smell of fresh brisket sandwiches, barbecue, roasted nuts, and baked goods fills the air as employees prepare food throughout the day. One of the biggest attractions is the famous wall of beef jerky flavors and the popular Beaver Nuggets snack mix that travelers love to take home. Beyond the food, the store also has aisles filled with Texas-themed souvenirs, clothing, home décor, drinkware, candies, toys, travel essentials, and seasonal items. Many people compare walking into Buc-ee’s to entering a mix between a convenience store, gift shop, and small department store.

Buc-ee’s Amarillo

$3.33 at Gas Pump

Buc-ee’s Statue

Another reason travelers love stopping at Buc-ee’s is the reputation for cleaner restrooms and lower gas prices compared to many nearby stations. Buc-ee’s uses a high-volume pricing strategy that often allows them to sell fuel for several cents less per gallon than surrounding competitors along the interstate. For travelers driving long distances, filling up at Buc-ee’s can save money while also providing a much more enjoyable stop. The Amarillo location also includes diesel fuel and EV charging stations, making it convenient for many types of travelers.

For many road trippers, a stop at Buc-ee’s becomes part of the adventure itself. Families stretch their legs, shop for snacks and souvenirs, grab fresh barbecue sandwiches, and take photos with the famous Buc-ee’s mascot. Whether you are traveling across Texas, heading west toward New Mexico, or simply passing through Amarillo, Buc-ee’s offers a fun and memorable break from the road. It combines the convenience of a travel stop with the atmosphere of a Texas roadside attraction, making it easy to see why so many travelers make it a must-stop destination on every trip.

California Road Trip: Groom, Texas

by Rob | Apr 26, 2026 | Road Trips

A Spiritual Detour Along Route 66: Visiting The Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas

After leaving Wichita Falls during our cross-country road trip to California, we decided to make a detour west toward the small town of Groom to visit the incredible Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

As we continued west on I-40, the massive cross suddenly appeared on the horizon, rising high above the flat Texas Panhandle landscape. Sitting just off historic Route 66 near Amarillo, the 190-foot cross can reportedly be seen from nearly 20 miles away and stands as one of the tallest crosses in the world.

The Cross Overview

Last Supper, Stations of the Cross, and the Cross

Eucharist and the Cross – Do This In Memory Of Me

Walking through the Stations of the Cross at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ was one of the most moving experiences of our entire road trip. The life-sized bronze statues begin with Jesus being condemned to death and continue through each moment of His journey to Calvary. As visitors walk the path, they see Jesus taking up the cross, falling the first time, meeting His Blessed Mother, and receiving help from Simon of Cyrene. Other stations portray Veronica wiping the face of Jesus, His second and third falls, and His emotional encounter with the women of Jerusalem. Each sculpture is incredibly detailed and realistic, making the scenes feel powerful and deeply personal.

The stations continue with Jesus being stripped of His garments, nailed to the cross, and dying at Calvary beneath the darkened sky. The final scenes show Jesus being taken down from the cross and placed in the tomb. Surrounding the stations are additional memorials and displays including the Three Crosses at Calvary, the Last Supper sculpture, the Ten Commandments monument, the Divine Mercy fountain, and peaceful prayer areas that encourage visitors to pause and reflect. The entire property creates an atmosphere of reverence and prayer despite sitting just off busy I-40 and historic Route 66 in the middle of the Texas Panhandle.

First: Jesus Is Condemned to Death

Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” They only shouted louder, “Crucify Him.” (Mark 15:14) Pilate called for water and washed his hands in front of the crowd, declaring, “I am innocent of the blood of this just man.” (Matthew 27:24)

Second: Jesus Carries His Cross

He emptied himself and took the form of a slave, being born in the likeness of man. (Philippians 2:7)

Third: Jesus Falls the First Time

I looked about, but there was no one to help, I was appalled that there was no one to lend support. (Isaiah 63:5)

Fourth: Jesus Meets His Mother, Mary

Jesus meets his mother, Mary. For he has looked upon his servant in her lowliness, all ages to come shall call me blessed. (Luke 1:48) She gave birth to a son, a male child, destined to rule all the nations with an iron rod. (Revelation 12:5)

Fifth: Simon Helps Jesus

A man called Simon of Cyrene was coming in from the fields and they pressed him into service to carry the Cross. (Mark 15:21)

Sixth: Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus

Then the righteous will answer him and say, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you or see you thirsty and give you drink?” (Matthew 25:37)

Seventh: Jesus Falls the Second Time

He himself bore our sins in His body upon the Cross, so that, free from sin, we might live for righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. (1 Peter 2:24)

Eighth: Jesus Comforts the Women of Jerusalem

A great crowd followed Him, including women who lamented over him. Jesus turned and said, “Do not weep for me, weep for yourselves and for your children.” (Luke 23:27-28)

Ninth: Jesus Falls the Third Time

“I am like water poured out, all my bones are racked…my throat is dried up like dried clay, my tongue cleaves to my jaws, to the dust of death you have brought me down.” (Psalms 22: 15,16)

Tenth: Jesus is Stripped of his Garments

Jesus is stripped of his garments, they took his garments and divided them four ways, a share for each soldier. (John 19:23) They divided my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots. (Psalms 22:19)

Eleventh: Jesus is Nailed to the Cross

Indeed, many dogs surround me, a pack of evildoers closes in upon me, they have pierced my hands and my feet, I can count all my bones. (Psalms 22:17-19)

Twelfth: Jesus Dies on the Cross

Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Father into your hands I commit my spirit.” And when he said this, he breathed his last. (Luke 23:46)

Thirteenth: Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross

They shall look on him whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him as one mourns for an only son. (Zechariah 12:10)

Fourteenth: Jesus is Laid in the Holy Sepulchre

Then having brought a linen shroud, Joseph of Arimathea took him down, wrapped him in linen, and laid him in a tomb, which had been hewn out of a rock. (Mark 15:46)

The Resurrection

But when they looked they saw that the stone, which was very big, had already been rolled back. One entering the tomb they saw a young man in a white robe seated on the right-hand side, and they were struck with amazement. But he said to them, “There is no need to be so amazed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified: he has risen, he is not here. See, here is the place where they laid him.” (Mark 16:4-6)

The Crucifixion display at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice Jesus Christ made for the salvation of mankind. As visitors stand before the scene, they are drawn into the emotional and spiritual significance of Christ’s suffering and death on the cross. The detailed sculptures and peaceful surroundings create a moving place for prayer, reflection, and gratitude for God’s mercy and love. Many visitors pause quietly at the Crucifixion scene to reflect on the meaning of Christ’s sacrifice and the hope and redemption found through His resurrection.

Calvary

Second Thief

Crucified Jesus

First Thief

The Sanctity of Life Memorial at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ is one of the most emotional and thought-provoking areas on the property. The memorial serves as a reminder of the value and dignity of human life, featuring powerful sculptures and displays designed to encourage reflection, prayer, and compassion. Walking through the memorial area creates a quiet and peaceful atmosphere that stands in contrast to the busy interstate just beyond the grounds.

Surrounded by the open Texas Panhandle landscape, the memorial adds another deeply personal and spiritual element to the experience of visiting the giant cross site along I-40 and historic Route 66. Combined with the Stations of the Cross, the Three Crosses at Calvary, and the other religious displays throughout the property, the Sanctity of Life Memorial helps make the site much more than a roadside attraction — it becomes a place for reflection, faith, and remembrance.

Sanctity of Life

One of the most unique and memorable displays at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ is the life-sized Last Supper sculpture. The detailed bronze scene captures Jesus gathered with the twelve apostles during His final meal before the crucifixion. What makes the display especially meaningful is that visitors are invited to step into the scene by sitting at the table in one of the empty seats among the apostles. It creates a powerful and personal moment that allows you to feel connected to the setting rather than simply viewing it from a distance.

Surrounded by the quiet Texas Panhandle landscape near historic Route 66 and I-40, the Last Supper display becomes more than just a sculpture — it feels like a place for reflection and prayer. Sitting at the table while looking at the expressions and details of the apostles made the experience surprisingly emotional and unforgettable. Combined with the Stations of the Cross, the giant cross towering overhead, and the peaceful atmosphere of the property, the Last Supper was one of the highlights of our visit to Groom, Texas.

Last Supper and Calvary

Last Supper

Participating at the Last Supper

Last Supper

At the Ten Commandments Monument at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, visitors are invited to slow down and reflect on God’s Word and the commandments He gave to Moses. Set among the peaceful grounds of the site, the monument displays these sacred teachings in a way that encourages prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Standing before the monument, visitors are reminded how God’s Word continues to guide everyday life through faith, obedience, honesty, and love for both God and neighbor.

The Ten Commandments monument is more than a display of scripture—it is a powerful reminder of the lasting truth and wisdom found in God’s Word. As visitors walk the grounds of the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the monument becomes part of a larger spiritual journey alongside the towering cross, sacred statues, and scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. Many people pause here to carefully read each commandment, finding inspiration, peace, and a renewed sense of purpose during their visit to this faith-filled destination in Groom, Texas.

Ten Commandments

God’s Word

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.

The Visitor Center at the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, provides a welcoming place for travelers and pilgrims to begin their visit to this inspiring spiritual destination. Inside, visitors can learn more about the history and mission of the site while taking a break from the Texas heat. The peaceful atmosphere allows guests to reflect on God’s Word and prepare for their walk through the grounds, which include the towering cross, Stations of the Cross, and many beautiful religious displays. The Visitor Center also offers a place to pick up information, browse faith-based gifts and souvenirs, and experience the warm hospitality that makes the site so memorable.

One of the most meaningful features near the Visitor Center is the beautiful Fountain of Mercy. The fountain serves as a reminder of God’s endless love, grace, and forgiveness flowing into the lives of believers. Surrounded by the peaceful setting of the grounds, the sound of flowing water creates a calming atmosphere for prayer and reflection. Many visitors pause at the Fountain of Mercy to spend quiet moments with God, finding comfort and renewal during their visit to the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Fountain of Divine Mercy

Visitor Center

Whether you are making a quick stop while traveling along Interstate 40 or planning a special pilgrimage, the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Groom, Texas, is a place that leaves a lasting impression on the heart. From the towering 190-foot cross to the Stations of the Cross, the Ten Commandments monument, and peaceful prayer areas, the grounds offer visitors a chance to pause from the busyness of life and reflect on God’s Word and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Many travelers arrive expecting a brief roadside stop and leave feeling spiritually renewed after experiencing the peaceful atmosphere and powerful reminders of faith found throughout the property.

The Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ Ministries welcomes visitors from all walks of life who are seeking encouragement, prayer, and a closer connection with God. If you would like more information about visiting, supporting the ministry, or learning more about the grounds and mission, you can contact the ministry at (806) 248-9006 or visit their official website at Cross Ministries.

California Road Trip: Wichita Falls, Texas

by Rob | Apr 25, 2026 | Road Trips

From Forney to Wichita Falls: Storms, Long Miles, and a Relaxing Texas Evening

After attending Saturday Vigil Mass at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, we got back on the road and continued our journey west toward Wichita Falls. What started as a fairly normal evening drive quickly turned into one of the most intense weather experiences of our entire road trip.

Leaving Forney, we worked our way through the busy Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex traffic. Even on a weekend evening, there was still plenty of congestion, construction, and constant lane changes to keep us alert behind the wheel of the Jeep Gladiator. Once we finally cleared the city, the drive became much more open and peaceful as we headed northwest through smaller Texas towns.

That peaceful drive did not last forever.

Somewhere between Bowie and Wichita Falls, the weather suddenly turned severe. Dark clouds rolled in fast, heavy rain started pounding the windshield, and Tornado Warnings began appearing directly on the Jeep Gladiator dashboard. Seeing tornado alerts pop up while driving through rural Texas at night definitely gets your attention.

The storm became intense with lightning flashing across the sky and visibility dropping quickly at times. It turned into one of those drives where both hands stay locked on the steering wheel and your full attention never leaves the road. Thankfully, traffic was fairly light, and we carefully pushed through the worst of it safely.

By the time we arrived in Wichita Falls, we were more than ready to stop for the night. We checked into the Best Western Plus University Inn & Suites, and it turned out to be a great choice after such a stressful drive. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and very welcoming after hours on the road and driving through severe weather.

One of the best parts was being able to simply walk over to McBride’s Steakhouse for dinner instead of getting back into the Jeep again. We enjoyed a Chicken Caesar Salad and a Blue Cheese Burger, both of which hit the spot after the long drive through the storm.

The evening also marked a small but meaningful moment for me personally. I had my first Michelob Ultra Zero since becoming alcohol free almost a year ago. I honestly did not know what to expect, but it was surprisingly good and felt like a nice way to relax and celebrate making it safely through another memorable day on the road.

McBride’s Steakhouse

McBride’s Steakhouse Inside

McBride’s Steakhouse Menu One Side

McBride’s Steakhouse Menu Other Side

Looking back, the drive from Forney to Wichita Falls had a little bit of everything — peaceful moments after Mass, big city traffic, dangerous Texas storms, and finally a quiet evening with good food and a comfortable hotel at the end of the night.

« Older Entries

Next Entries »