Mesa Verde and more

  We have enjoyed our stay here in the Cortez area. After a rainy, snowy start the last couple of days have been severe clear. To be precise we are in Towaoc as guest of the Ute mountain Utes. No, I did not type that wrong.  Of many things we have learned, one item was yesterday at a museum (shocked aren't you) in Animas near Durango. In the 1800's when the white man was stealing the Indians homes and lands, the tribe split up. One group made Towaoc it's home here at the base of Sleeping Ute mountain. Hence the name Ute Mountain Utes. In fact we are next to  their casino and have contributed to the local economy. Just in case you care, more about museum can be learned HERE


  Speaking of the white man of the 1800's, our ancestors, we have little reason to be proud. Over and over what the white man did has been repeated. Wiped out the great bison herds, stole land from it's native owners. Looted and decimated ancient ruins. Made and broke treaties because we wanted what little they had left. Drive thru the Navajo Nation and look at the hogans, (house/home), many without electricity or running water. Before we worry too much about middle east refugees, we need to do our homework here. Cannot undo the past wrongs, but can make things right/better.


 Back on March 27th I promised visits to 13 National Parks/Monuments. Well we let you down on that promise. Sorry. The weather got in our way for Cedar Breaks NP. Winter storm warning, heavy snow and the parks 10,000 ft elevation was not a good combination. So 12 was the best we could manage. We plan to return to the area and visit it then. Tomorrow we head to Chama New Mexico and change. We leave behind the desert and sandstone mesas and national parks. Chama is a little town at 7800ft elevation at the edge of the San Juan mountains. Been thru it many times an vowed to return. Nothing planned but scaring the trout in the river. It is the southern terminus of a narrow guage railroad but we are too early in season for it. But if you wait for it you fight the crowds and kids.  We then head for Colorado Springs. The heavy, late spring snows of the past week will probably mess up our return to the summit of Pikes Peak. Have a full agenda while there, so may be for the best. So as you can read a change in scenery, a change in objectives. Bet we can still find a museum...


  Today's photo essay:

More of my tribute to the work of the CCC's.  They did a lot of good for this country

  My buddy Fred requested a close up of Mary's boobs so here you go Fred!!