Bandalier National Monument and Taos Pueblo

Today our group visited the Bandalier National Monument (why it is called this, I do not know). This sight is one of the most breathtaking I have seen since the beginning of our trip. The rich colors of the rock and the beauty of the cliff sides are a privilege to be able to see in person. The idea that people could thrive in the rocky facades of these magnificent mountain fronts is astounding. The small wooden ladders that lead to the mouths of their small cave dwellings seem to be something from a child's play-set. As one looks along the rock, series of small, uniform holes can be distinguished. These orderly holes are from the support beams that once held up the structures that lined the cliff faces. Today can also be considered "Wildlife Day". We had the pleasure of seeing a black bear cub, a mule deer, a diamond back snake and several small lizards. The bear cub walked innocently along side a small crick looking in the dirt and foliage for something to snack on. The mule deer was one of the most tame wild animals I have come in contact with as I was just two and a half feet from him. He was so calm with having a group of humans standing around gawking and taking photographs that one almost questioned his existence as a wild animal. As for the snake and lizards, I did not put forth any extra effort to try and get closer to them. Todays sights were definitely ones that should be considered honorary and a privilege.

Yesterday, our group had the ability to visit the gorgeous Taos Pueblo village. These pueblos ruins are around 1000 years old and the newer ones are still lived in today by the Pueblo Indian people. These pueblos, with their romantic backdrop of a breathtaking mountain, look like something out of a book. Here, one has the chance to purchase local crafts and trades such as jewelry, clothing, drums and replica weaponry (I bought my younger brother a tomahawk). Along with the crafts, one can also purchase foods of the Pueblo people. The main food item that is enjoyed by visitors is the amazing blue corn fry bread. I had the chance to sample this tasty treat that has the flavor of funnel cake sans confectioners sugar. Honey, if added, completes this delicious carb and makes it a great little treat. In the streets of the pueblos, dogs roam freely and happily greet the sightseers and tourists. As one walks throughout the alleys and streets, one can take in the small baking ovens, the cool mud walls of the houses and the vibrant colors of the signs and chili strands. The people who sell their trades and live in the pueblos, are some of the kindest people I have ever met. I visited an older gentleman's jewelry shop, and he asked if "anything exciting was going on in my life". This made me exceedingly happy to know that there are still some people that care about others and their happiness. I stayed a discussed many things with this man including his craftsmanship, different types of cameras (as I had mine strapped around my neck) and what our group is studying on our visit. His kindness and hospitality was something that I greatly appreciated.