Hello everyone,
A few weeks after my trip to Mesa Varde with Becky, Jan asked how I felt about going again with them, for a field trip. She didn't have to beg...... We had Monday morning school and headed out by car. We stayed in a lovely hotel in Durango that night and got an early start to Mesa Verde. The weather was lovely again and the kids were so excited. Jack and Teddy had been there before but it was Jenny's first visit. They especially wanted to visit Balcony House where you had to climb he 32 foot ladder and squeeze out on your hands and knees to leave.
We enjoyed spending time in the museum and looking at the ancient artifacts. Corn, was one of the crops that allowed these people to live in one place and not have to bee hunters and gatherers. The corn in the picture was found in an ancient cache and has been preserved all this time. It is amazing how much remains of their homes, as well. Can you picture what our homes would look like in 700-800 years, if we abandoned them now? I was surprised to see the remnants of red paint and designs on some of the walls.
A large portion of the mesa has seen wild fires since 2001. Most of these fires have been caused by lightening and are a part of nature's plan. However, large crews have been called in as the fire has neared the ruins, in an attempt to save them. They have done a good job.
We all enjoyed Step House again, as well, and the children tried out the manos and metates and decided they wouldn't like to grind their corn that way. Everyone worked hard to keep food on the table and fulfill their basic needs. We have become so spoiled over the years. The rising gas prices cause me to reflect on the changes we may need to make in our own lives, in order to maintain our homes and diets.
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