This morning we headed East, leaving the  rocky mountains behind and into the flat prairies of Kansas. Very little to say except it was hot (97- 100) very windy and flat. We followed 94 out of Colorado Springs to 287 and then picked up Rt. 96 into Great Bend.

A side note to those who travel with kids, and those who don't- we stayed at the Drury Hotel  (it is a chain) in Colorado Springs since we had a coupon for a cheap rate. They have a simple dinner included for all in your party, as well as three free adult beverages per adult. Yes, I said free! They also have a hot breakfast in the morning. The dinner is not fancy but very kid friendly: hot dogs, mac and cheese, nachos and cheese, chicken fingers...etc. But, also salad and raw veggies. A great deal especially if you are traveling with kids. Oh, and they also have popcorn in the lobby!! (my favorite snack)

The Drury Hotel

Pikes Peak- directly across from the hotel

The roads are very flat in southern Colorado!

Oil rigs are very common. 

 So many vacant homes, schools, stores along the way.

This school was built in 1914 and now is empty and vandalized.