Before leaving California I considered getting a myriad of tattoos declaring my love for California. Eventually I opted for a swallow over “Made in California.” I can’t wait to go back and see my adorable tattoo artist again!
I stopped at my uncle’s house on my way to Utah. I was interested to see a hole had been punched into the wall, where Utah appeared on the map.
About half way there I started having second thoughts about leaving my beloved California.
Highlight of the trip was stopping for Starbucks in an Elko, NV casino. Though I am a little concerned about Nevada, since they claim Elko is “The Heart of Nevada.” They might want to have that checked out.
My worries about moving to Utah were soothed when I saw the exit for Devil’s Gate. Phew. Thank goodness for Satanic pick-me-ups!
I took about twenty pictures of clouds. You’re welcome for only posting this shot.
My Turkish Evil Eye kept me safe from harm during my road trip…though living and driving in Utah is much more dangerous than driving across three states alone. I pray it will protect from all the mother fucking self-righteous terrible Utah drivers.
I knew I was getting close to “civilization” when I saw Metaphor: The Tree of Utah. A crazy Swedish artist created the 87 foot high sculpture to bring color and beauty to the stark whiteness of the Bonneville Salt Flats (surrounding the Great Salt Lake). I want some of what he had.
It started sprinkling as I arrived in Salt Lake City. The dark contrast of clouds made me realize something I’ve never been able to admit: Utah is beautiful. It’s not the rolling, green hills and Pacific Ocean that I miss so dearly, but it was a relief to see beauty on my way into town.
Now living with my parents as an adult is a completely different story and best saved for another day.
Drive through Tooele and you may change your mind about the “beauty” of Utah. I know, I know, Utah really DOES have its beauty but……..I decorate my house as though it were a beach house to remind myself that there really just might be hope out there that one day I’ll be living on the Pacific Coast! Good luck with drinking at the parents house – been there, done that – Vodka in a big gulp cup works best.
I love the picture montage to go with your words! Your tattoo looks really cool … where will you get the California one?
No pix of the big, gay Waving Cowboy in Wendover? BTW – Elko is very special to me. My parents eloped there in 1969. They were married in the casino that has the the huge stuffed polar bear watching over the entrance.
Excellent pictures! I love the tattoo. And the sky pictures…I love sky pictures.
As for living with your parents. Don’t call it that. Just call them your roommates. It works for a friend of my SIL…
Armalicious – that’s what I called my parents when I lived at home before getting married.
Pants – Gorgeous pictures!! You have to understand we have NOTHING like that in NY so they scenery out there is fascinating to me. And I just love the idea of a town named “Elko” that claims to be the heart of NV!
And your tat is gorgeous. I’m such a tattoo wimp that mine only tat is just black and the next one will be too.
i’ve got the ink ‘n needle itch! beautiful.
I didn’t take any lovely pictures on my drive up from Florida. I was too busy cursing at all the other drivers.
I love the tattoo. It’s lovely, and flattering.
Utah does seem beautiful, based on the pictures. You’re braver than I am, in making this move. Deep breaths.
And remember the MacBook.
Beautiful tattoo.
Go see “Saturday’s Voyeur” – it’s a nice balm to the local (and sometimes overwhelming) cultural insanity. I used to know a lot of great eateries, but being in CA 9 years now, all the Utah stuff has faded (thank GAWD).
Amberly,
I have no idea where Tooele is but I’ll take your word for it!
Airam,
Thanks! Not sure where I’d do the California tattoo…my neck?
Sofi,
Dammit, I knew I was missing out on something! I can’t believe I didn’t stop in Wendover!
armalicious,
Thanks! I will have to try that with my, uh, roommates. Roommates can be so irritating!
Curly Glamour Girlie,
I absolutely loved getting my tattoo…it didn’t hurt that the guy who did it for me was so cute he made my face hurt.
sweetviolet,
I am absolutely dying to get more tattoos now! Love ‘em!
Scarlet Hip,
Hey, that’s what I do when I’m driving in Utah! I think I might pass up cursing at the shitty drivers and start taking pictures of them.
Thérèse,
The MacBook does make my day a bit brighter.
Sideon,
I still cannot believe that I’m here…I will have to check out Saturday’s Voyeur. I can already tell it would be right up my alley.
Have you been in the bay area since you left Utah? I miss the bay, dearly!
I’m glad that you finally realize Utah is pretty. The view from the bar is the way to go.
The view from the bar is excellent!
I’m watching “Heroes” sober. Unacceptable!
I do so love your uncle’s map!!!
…I think that would have been enough to make me turn around and come back to the bay area.
I forget now why you decided to return to Utah, but I’m sure it was a good reason.
You’ve seen some wicked cool clouds and shared some drinks with stuff in a closet.
Now, I feel you should return home to SF. …or, come to OTown where we are moving! …a lot cheaper. …I do mean a lot.
And, that tat rocks!!!!
I’ve been to Utah, but only St. George and Cedar City. I’m sure Salt Lake is much better. God, I hope it is.
The heart of Nevada is located in the Gold Rush Casino in Henderson. The heart is on display under a glass case. And you can get a steak and eggs breakfast for $1.99.
Do your parents know you’re no longer a virgin? That might be important news to share as men make their way in and out of their house at frequent intervals. Just a thought.
Nice pictures by the way.
Sarahbellum,
Thanks for saving it!
matty,
I moved here to be closer to my family and go to school. I’m establishing my residency right now and will be in school next semester. It’s my first time living in Utah…I REALLY miss CA!
yournamehere,
Salt Lake City is bad but not St. George or Cedar City bad.
egan,
I’ve taken a vow of celebacy…makes living with the parentals easier.
Wow, you’re such a catch.
I better stop joking about that…I’d hate for it to come true.
That tattoo is extraordinary! I am in deep smit with it.
i heart that tattoo.