Mesa Verde

Before my life was turned upside-down and I thought that moving was my great challenge, we took a trip to Mesa Verde.  After living in Colorado for 6 1/2 years, I plotted to fit this trip into our travels as the final place I wanted to experience in the state.

I had seen lots of pictures and heard stories about the place, and I worried a little that it might not live up to my expectations.  I must say that, on the contrary, they were exceeded.

The story of how and why these living quarters were built were fascinating; and they were so perfectly preserved.  I also was surprised that we were allowed to walk among them and even go down a ladder into a kiva.

Another surprise was the greenery on the trail down to the pueblos.  We drove for several hours through high desert sagebrush and pine trees, and then out of the desert, we descended into an oasis of verdant beauty.

Nicole was the only one who didn't want to climb into the confined space of the kiva.  It was a little claustrophobic; and dusty!  But it was also pretty cool.

I'm grateful that we took that drive through southern Colorado, before the fires wiped out all the trees from along much of that area.  I also have a hard time comprehending all that would transpire only a month later.  I am still mostly in disbelief, with a dose of sadness and a touch of acceptance mixed in.
   

We drove through Monticello, Utah a few hours after we left Mesa Verde, and found the first small temple that was built.  Though little, it was lovely, and there was a beautiful spirit there.  I am grateful for the peace that comes from the temple.  I need to get back there soon.