Micanopy, FL to Palatka, FL

 2 Chicas and the Tale of the Indian Chief

A trip to Micanopy is like walking back in time. First stop for 2 Chicas is the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, which is located in the Thrasher Warehouse on the main road, Cholokka Boulevard.

2 Chicas arrive at the museum in record time and waltz in only to be greeted by a Girl Scout Display. Chica 2 muses that she could wiggle into the exhibited uniform. Yes you could Chica 2, but the uniform would be in tatters!

Our laughter caught the attention of the lone resident in the building, and we were soon to discover a rare jewel in this docent.

A friendly voice asked where we were from and where we were headed. The voice soon went into sharing great stories about the area, the people, the original inhabitants, and how Hollywood even came to town.

She had to be a great storyteller, because Chica 2 actually sat quietly and listened without any tomfoolery. As we were transported back in time, we heard how the Timucuan Indians hunted, fished and lived on this very beautiful, but totally wild land about 7,000 years ago.

Then came the Spaniards with their cattle, pigs, citrus, and diseases.  We all know the rest of that sad story.

She also shared that the Seminole Indians, who were really Creeks and other Indians from Georgia and Alabama, protected runaway slaves and invited the slaves into their tribes.

The Seminoles and the slaves lived happily together until they were relocated to Oklahoma via Arkansas through a treaty in the mid-1800s. Some of the Seminoles were forced down further to the south to the Everglades.

Her last tale was of Julius Rosenwald, the President of Sears Roebuck from 1908 – 1924.  After doing a little touring in the South, he was greatly disturbed with the lack of schools for Black Americans.

He partnered with Booker T. Washington to build 6 schools for Blacks in Alabama. He then formed the Rosenwald Rural Building Program and built thousands of schools throughout the south, including one in Micanopy.

The neatest thing about this place besides the wonderful artifacts is the intriguing volunteer Patsy Crass. If you’re lucky, you will have your own personal audience with Mrs. Crass! Movies such as Cross Creek and Doc Hollywood were filmed right here in Micanopy!

After hearing such lively stories, don’t forget to go through the entire museum. Now it’s time to be teleported back into the present and on to our next adventure.  What an absolutely delightful visit.

While you’re in Micanopy, go down on their main strip and check out the many antique shops. Each building has a story and you know who can tell you all about it! Grab an ice cream cone and enjoy this itty bitty hidden treasure!

2 Chicas See a Fire in the Hole!

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is Florida’s first state preserve and boy is it big. 2 Chicas arrived at the park just to luck up on Fire Fest, a celebration of the controlled burn.

Controlled burns, as we learned, help rangers control overgrowth and are instrumental in preventing wild fires. 

Chica 2 squealed when she saw the Smokey the Bear refrigerator magnet. “Oh my! I just love him!”  Leave it to Chica 2 to be in love with a fictional character; a bear no less. She ran over and took a picture with the large stuffed Smokey the Bear. 

After stopping in the Visitor’s Center, 2 Chicas saw that the wild bison that live in the park were spotted just a few days earlier by a hiker.

Chica 2, having had and enjoyed a bison burger, was excited to think she may come face to face with a potential meal.  I wonder if she has that same fantasy when we are out boating – wanna wrestle with a shark Chica 2?

Chica 1 can only hope Chica 2 is joking about wrestling with a bison. This is the wild, not television Chica 2! Outside the visitor’s center were a number of different stations set up concerning controlled burns and the types of native plants found in the area. Chica 2 enjoyed the displays even if it was all too quickly and went skipping down the sidewalk towards the observation tower. I guess that means it is time to go! 

Down the path and up the stairs and to the overlook we go! Chica 1 made up a little song to distract her from the uphill climb. Chica 2 was already at the top, show off!  Looking out over the prairie is so beautiful and grounding.

We were just two girls in this big old world, gazing out on acres of God’s stunning creation. Puts everything in perspective - life is more than hustling for money and things. Come on Chica 2, let’s go take a hike around the lake.

The Lake Trail is s .75 mile walk over to Lake Wauberg. Chica 2 started singing songs from the Lion King as we walked to the lake. “It’s the Circle of Lake – Of oooohhh Lake Wauberg “ - it looks so peaceful.

The kayakers barely made ripples on the water. Chica 1 had to hold Chica 2 from jumping into the lake. Sh was going to swim out and hijack the kayak. Only Chica 2!

You never know what types of microorganisms are hovering below the surface of the water. Saved her pitiful life yet again.  We walked over to the boardwalk and looked across the lake. What a perfect ending to a fun one day excursion.  Check out Paynes Prairie State Park; hopefully you’ll have better luck than we did and see wild horses or bison on your hike!

2 Chicas Deep in a Hole in Palatka

2 Chicas arrived in Palatka to see the beautiful Ravine Gardens State Park. We were interested to find out that Palatka has a lot of history dating back as far as forever.

If you have time, check out the historic districts in town. We drove through the North Historic District and enjoyed looking at the stately mansions and beautiful, yet simple churches. But we came for the ravine.

Over at Ravine Gardens State Park, 2 Chicas are looking down the hole, or should we say “ravine”. This gorge is the result of water erosion from the St. Johns River. How in the world did this steep gulch develop so far away from the river? Never mind, this mini-valley has quite a jungle growing down in it.

Chica 2 immediately did her Tarzan call and just about frightened every animal and human in the place. It really sounds more like a sick cat?

Early in the 1930s, the ravine was turned into a beautiful garden courtesy of the federal Works Program. As 2 Chicas drove through the 1.8 mile path around the gardens, it was evident that we would have to park and descend into the deep.

2 reminded Chica 1 that there had to be a movie filmed here at one time because the area looked familiar. As we descended to go across the suspension bridge, she said maybe it was one of the Freddy movie or The Thing. Please stop Chica 2, we’re the only ones out here – we hope!  Chica 2 let out a low, pitched scream, seems we are not alone after all.  A friendly hiker appears from around the bend and gives a friendly wave.

As we approach the suspension bridge, Chica 1 is amazed at the solitude in the park. We saw a few joggers and couples walking their dogs, but there was a quiet here that permeated the air.

Climbing back up was a bit more effort. Breathless but happy, we walked over to a display board to learn more about the indigenous people who once lived here.

The Timucuan Indians, the original Floridian Native Americans, settled along the St John’s River using the ravines as a source for fresh water. By the mid-1700s, these very same Indians had died from warfare and European diseases. Well that story was pretty depressing. The Creeks migrated to Florida from surrounding areas and settled in the Palatka area. 

William Bartram, famed botanist, documented being welcomed by the Creeks in Palatka with a feast of watermelon and oranges.

Chica 2 said this must have been the first vegetarian meal served in the country; at the very least, the first vegetarian meal eaten by a Brit in the US. 2 Chicas decided to go down to the lovely pond area and reflect. Tee hee hee

The formal gardens are very nice, but not spectacular. There is a pergola area with three fountains and a large obelisk that is at the entrance/exit of the park.

The rangers say the park is at its peak beauty in the spring when the azaleas are in bloom. There are two suspension bridges, a number of overlook areas and trails, playgrounds, and fitness areas. Ravine Gardens State Park is certainly not your average hole!

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Colorado, Part 3

2 Chicas Three Times the Fun at the Triple Falls

Chica 1 is always looking for something a little different and so 2 Chicas were taking a brief break from National Parks to visit a state park. Rifle Falls State Park was touted as having a triple waterfall. Right outside of the city of Rifle, CO, turns out Rifle Falls has caves and hiking trails.

The drive to Rifle Falls was interesting as 2 Chicas drove through the town and wound around and around a mountain (especially to two flat state inhabitants).  It was a weird trip in that the road seemed to lead to a number of personal homes, but we kept right on going until we drove into the park. 2 Chicas were relieved to see our destination right before our ears. We could hear the water rushing which really excited Chica 1.

2 Chicas parked and prepared for the hike to the falls. There was no hike; we rounded the corner and there were the falls. All powerful and spraying, 70 ft. worth of water falls! Standing at the base of the falls, Chica 1 was so moved by the splendor of the moment. Naturally, Chica 2 was ready to go cave exploring!

So up the Coyote Trail we go to investigate the caves. Chica 2 kept repetitively saying she was going to see Batman! Chica 2 was warning Chica 1 that when she found Batman, she would have no problem using her whip on him. Lawd!

Upon arrival to the first cave, Chica 1 was surprised at the tight quarters. It was more of a cup than a cave. A hike around the area and to multiple caves 2 Chicas ended up behind the falls. It was a pleasant hike, but to Chica 2’s disappointment, no Batman.

Reading the information on the stations, Chica 1 was devastated to discover that one of the falls is manmade. There are pipes redirecting the water over the limestone cliffs. Chica 2 wondered aloud why the ubiquitous they didn’t go ahead and make the falls have six cascades.

Come on Chica 2, let’s keep hiking. The trail had some large drop off areas that gave Chica 1 and her short little legs trouble. Chica 2 was extremely patient and surprisingly, never tried to trip Chica 1.

Outside of the large step downs, the trail was pretty easy. Rifle Falls is a nice park, just a little advice for the caretakers – please do something with those bathrooms.  They were pretty disgusting; Chica 2 said they were way beyond disgusting.

Rifle Falls State Park offers a number of outdoor exploration opportunities! Get to the falls and take a hike to the caves. Maybe you’ll have better luck than Chica 2 at finding your dream man in an isolated grotto. Doesn’t sound quite the same does it?

2 Chicas Behind the Vail

Well two worn travelers decided to stop roughing it and spend a little pamper time in Vail prior to ascending into the Great Rocky Mountains. Our trip so far had taken us from Denver, south to Alamosa, west across the state to the Four Corners, back north through Ouray, up to Rifle Falls and now east to Vail. Before the trip is over, 2 Chicas would go a little further north to the Rockies and back to Denver.

Vail seemed just the place to relax, get in some shopping and pampering, have a fabulous meal and get back to roughing it. The Arrabelle at Vail was spectacular with a roof pool, multiple roof top hot tubs, fireplaces in every room, luxurious robes, a wonderful soaker tub with a flat screen television, and a bathroom as large as the average hotel room.

The greater amenities are in the spa and surrounding dining, shopping and ambiance.  There were great sales going on in the nearby shops. A cup of coffee and some people watching was great fun. The hotel staff will drop off and pick up guests anywhere in Vail Village. 2 Chicas had a lovely dinner at Sweet Basil a restaurant recommended by the concierge. The multi-course meal was exquisite and both Chicas were happy girls!

After dinner, 2 Chicas braved the freezing night time temperatures, and sat in the hot tub. The view from the roof was amazing! The hot steamy water along with a nice glass of wine was the perfect nightcap to a wonderful day. The new challenge was getting out of the water and back into the building without becoming an ice sculpture.

We did it! Now Chica 2 was sitting in front of the fireplace having a chat with the country. She was in her presidential mode, and for once, she actually made sense. Tee hee hee

If we had known the place was going to be this much fun, we might have missed the adventures throughout the state. Well, maybe not, but it was well worth the stop. 2 Chicas would greatly recommend going behind the veil and spend some quality time in Vail. There is something to do even if you don’t want to ski so dote on yourself why don’t you?

 2 Chicas Rock On the Rockies

2 Chicas had two choices heading up to the Rockies. We could travel from west of the divide, up Hwy 40 to Hwy 34 or come in from the east through Estes Park. 

We chose the western route. We drove around the edge of the Arapaho National Forest as well as the Arapaho National Recreation Area. Chica 2 wanted to jump in Lake Granby, but admitted it was a little too cold to take a chance.

It seemed like we were winding and twisting forever up and around until we arrived at the most picturesque area in Grand Lake. 

We stopped to admire the beautiful lake with the snow covered peaks in the background. Within a matter of minutes we had arrived at our destination, Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Chica 2 pulled into the Kawuneeche Visitor Center and had to be stopped from sprinting inside to see what type of wildlife had been spotted in the park.

2 Chicas were quickly disappointed that the weather was going to be a huge factor for our trip.  The ranger shared that the main road still had 20 feet of snow blocking the path to Estes Park. Good thing we didn’t come from that direction, we would have made very little progress into the park.  She did say there had been moose and bear seen in the park. 

Chica 2 was ready to go find herself a bear! Chica 1 asked if there was any type of insurance available for purchase for knucklehead visitors. The ranger smiled and reminded us to be careful. On the road again, 2 Chicas were stunned at the number of fallen trees. Quite a few times on the road, we had to stop for prolonged periods of time while crews cleared trees. All those downed trees made hiking seem a little risky.

Passing Harbison Meadows Chica 2 rolled down the window and took in a deep breath of air. Then, she immediately complained that her nostril hairs were frozen. Chica 1 peered up her nose and agreed that there were frozen tinsels hanging from each hair.  With all the ongoing whining, she must have been in a good amount of pain. Tee hee hee

Chica 1 was in awe of the pine forests. She too leaned out the window and inhaled, but her experience was much better. The crispness of the air and the scent of the ponderosa pine filled her lungs with a little breath of heaven.  Chica 2 drove all the way up to the closed area. It was a little shocking to see the huge mound of snow on the road. It didn’t look real, but those mountains, with the mist floating over the highest peaks were incredible. At every vantage point, Chica 1 was enthralled with the idea that God had created such splendor for his children to enjoy.

 Chica 2 on the other hand, was busy peering in the woods looking for her bear friends. Chica 1 cannot understand her thinking. She would turn into the RoadRunner if she actually saw a bear, but she was so hopeful!  

2 Chicas pull into Holzwarth Historic Site and it a light snow falls. 2 Chicas were going to hike out to see the Great Ditch, but we had to ditch that idea due to the amount of the snow on the ground. With no snow shoes, our feet were sinking eight inches in the ground.

2 Chicas turned into little kids making snowballs and having a good old fashioned snow fight. After a few snowballs to the face, Chica 2 was ready to go look for that bear again. On the way back to the car, Chica 1 stepped on a large stick which broke. Chica 2 took off sprinting to the car, thinking a bear was close behind. Another Chica 1 theory proved true; our little RoadRunner was off and running!  

We stopped at each trailhead trying to explore as much of the limited area available to us and making the best of the time we had at the park. As we prepared to leave, Chica 2 had the saddest look on her face. She was so sad that she had not seen any animals. No bighorn sheep, wolves, bears, elk, etc. I told her that God fills the desires of our hearts and that we would see wildlife before we left.

Sure enough, as we rounded the bend just past the Coyote Valley Trailhead, there were about three cars pulled off on the side of the road. Their occupants were in the middle of the road taking pictures of moose!  Chica 1 pulled over and joined the others standing dangerously in the middle of the street.

Returning to the car, Chica 2 had mist in her eyes saying: “Chica 1 you said God would let us see something and He did!” Yes, Chica 2 He even hears the small requests that are in our hearts. God is good all the time! This quiet worship stayed with us back down the mountain.

Just as we got outside the park, barely outside of Grand Lake, another set of moose were grazing just off the road. Chica 2 was at peace.  It wasn’t a bear or bighorn sheep, but it was enough. Chica 2’s revelation was that sometimes in this wonderful life, enough is really a whole lot. 2 Chicas hope you can visit the Rocky Mountains and have your enough moment! If not here, have your experience of fullness and peace somewhere….

2 Chicas Searching for a Rocky Mountain High

2 Chicas arrived in Denver road weary and very hungry. Chica 2 wanted to go to Cherry Cricket and get her version of comfort food, a hamburger. The restaurant was jumping and there was a wait. A cupcake truck owner smartly parked outside the joint to get waiting customers to buy his sweet treats. 

After being seated, Chica 2 had her wish and savored every bite of her burger. Cherry Cricket wins best burger in Denver pretty consistently and 2 Chicas agree with the assessment.

The following day, 2 Chicas headed over to the REI Flagship store to see what all the brouhaha was about. This is a mega store with everything you could ever imagine for outdoor excursions. We spent hours looking at all the items in the store. 

With time to spare, we headed downtown, which was vibrant. We shopped, people watched, and had lunch.. 2 Chicas love the frozen tea drinks served with boba, taro balls added to the beverage. The Mango Boba Tea we had in Denver was the best one we've every had! We stumbled upon the Downtown Denver Arts Festival and walked around for quite some time. It was fun but we had to leave prior to the performances.

As we headed to the airport, we quizzed each other over our favorite Colorado experience. It was just too hard to narrow it down to one thing. Our Rocky Mountain high vacation was now over, but we both agreed that Colorado, and especially Denver required return trips!

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Colorado Part 2

2 Chicas Reserved at the El Oldo Condo

The solemn quietness of the surrounding Navajo lands was soon behind 2 Chicas. As we approached Cortez, CO, Chica 2 promised to make this a memorable trip. Promises, promises Chica 2, all of our trips are unforgettable.

Chica 1 breaks into a rousing, lowered voice, 2 Chicas version of Unforgettable – “that’s what we are…. Unforgettable though near or far….darling it’s incredible 2 Chicas are unforgettable…and we hope you’re unforgettable 2!”

Chica 2 was relieved that we pulled into Mesa Verde National Park; maybe Chica 1 would stop howling that made up song! Anyhoo, there’s something about ancient Native American pueblos that get 2 Chicas juices flowing.  Mesa Verde reflects the living styles of ancient Puebloans, who grew crops atop the mesas and carved out their homes into the canyon walls. They lived in a vibrant, thriving community peacefully working together to hunt, trade, and share creative expressions that live on centuries after their demise.

It is difficult to understand how these builders without the theorems and engineering expertise of today could build large dwellings that have withstood the wear and tear of the ages. Yet, here these archaeological marvels stand, a proud display of yesterdays ingenuity!

Chica 2 parks and we begin our trek to the Far View Visitor’s Center. If you are going to visit the dwellings, you must purchase tickets at the visitor’s center. There are a few exhibits of pottery and baskets here, but there are far better displays located in the Chapin Mesa Museum.

The weather was beautiful, but the trail is steep to the dwellings. The ladder up to these ancient condos is even steeper. 2 Chicas decide to enjoy the grounds but not risk slipping, sliding and ending up face down in the pueblo high rise.  Chica 2, ever so thoughtful, was really just trying to protect her dear friend from herself. When Chica 1 gets vertigo, she is transformed into a hilarious bobble head. Chica 1 usually does everything to the extreme! Tee hee hee

Over at the museum, 2 Chicas are enthralled with the dioramas which displayed life in the Puebloan village. The ancient baskets, tools, and other artifacts added depth to the visit. We spent a good two hours immersed in the history of the native people who simply walked away from their home and like so many modern day U.S. Northerners, moved south! It’s just that their south was New Mexico and Arizona.  Come reserve a day to climb into the homes of the ancient southwest! Tell them 2 Chicas said to get your ascent on!

2 Million Dollar Smiles on the Million Dollar Highway

2 Chicas proceed out of Mesa Verde and head up toward Durango on our procession up the Million Dollar Highway. Some say it cost a million dollars early in the twentieth century to construct this grand piece of highway. Others say there’s a million dollars worth of gold ore hidden under the road. One thing is for sure, this piece of highway is as beautiful as it is dangerous.

While driving through Durango, Chica 1 spots a big blob of color on the side of the road with a sign and a small pullover. It is quite a head turner so Chica 2 whipped a U turn and went back to investigate. The site marks Pinkerton Springs, which is named for a farmer in the area a long time ago.

2 Chicas discovered that the springs were originally across the street on the more mountainous side. The attraction was creating quite a traffic danger so a pipe was run under the road and up in a fountain like manner. 2 Chicas guess the rest formed around the pipe. It is beautiful and free so be sure to stop. Back to our journey....

Along the way, it is hard not to notice that the San Juan Mountains are stunning.  This route takes you right past the San Juan Skyway. But don’t be fooled, this road is a real nail biter. MSN lists the Million Dollar Highway as number two of its 10 Highways to Hell. There have been a number of fatalities on this road, so 2 Chicas always give the safety warning: “slow it down and keep ur eyes on the road buddy!” The sign warning of an avalanche doesn't help at all, even though it is late May.

Chica 2 breathed hard at every hair pin turn and switchback. Chica 1 just closed her eyes and tried not to moan too loudly. Fortunately, Chica 2’s steady hand was on the wheel. At some point, Chica 1 began singing Amazing Grace and making horn sounds like the band playing on the Titanic. Not very encouraging Chica 1.

It seemed at that very moment the road had a most severe switchback.  It appeared that Chica 2 had to almost bring the car to a complete stop in order to navigate the tight twist and turn. Chica 1 did not take one picture; Chica 2 actually pulled over a couple of times to snap photos. Poor Chica 1 with her vertigo kicking in was looking like a petrified child (or a petrified forest log).  

Despite what you have read, it is a beautiful drive between Silverton and Ouray, but take your time. It is important to note that 2 Chicas drove from Silverton to Ouray, which is the “safer” direction. If you drive from Ouray to Silverton, you are on the outside of the highway which is the side that has the steep drop off.  Pull over if you need to and don’t let anyone on the road rush you through this tough drive. God forbid you encounter wild life while driving. There are no guardrails and very little room to navigate.

Once 2 Chicas descended into Ouray, audible sighs could be heard.  Chica 2 bragged forever that she was the Million Dollar winner! With a big smile, she told everyone who would listen that she had conquered this beautifully dangerous highway. Chica 1 must admit that Chica 2’s grin was worth a million dollars! 

This is one grandiose piece of real estate but proceed with caution. No picture or touristy behavior is worth risking your life. Visit the Million Dollar Highway and tell everyone 2 Chicas said have a Million Smiles for 25 Miles!

2 Chicas Hooray for Ouray

Ouray was a beautiful little town with a whole lot of history. It is considered the Switzerland of the United States because of the beautiful mountains all around the area. The Ute Indians loved the area because of the great hunting and for the spa like springs. Surprisingly, the town is named for a great chief of the Ute Indians, who was esteemed for his great diplomacy. Sadly, the land of his people was taken at an alarming rate. So much for diplomacy…

Many of the Victorian era buildings are still intact, but on this trip, that's not our thing. 2 Chicas really looked forward to trying out the Ute recommendation concerning the “therapeutic” springs. Soon after checking into our hotel, we threw on our swimwear and a jacket (it was cold out) and headed over to the hotel’s hot spring. It was in an enclosed building, but it was wonderful!!! The water was hot, but it felt fantastic! There were a number of mineral deposits around the edge, but there was no sulfur. 

2 Chicas really needed to decompress after our self-imposed stressful ride.  Chica 2 brought her little yellow ducky for a ride on a hot springs wave.  Huh?  Chica 1 tried to engage Chica 2 in a round of drown the dag-gone duck. Chica 2 was not amused.

After being steam pickled, 2 Chicas ran through the cold parking lot back to the room to dress for dinner. It was nice strolling through the streets of the little settlement. Speaking with the locals, we found out the town has its own hot springs pool.

They also said there are people who occasionally come here to go up in the mountains and hunt for gold and silver. Chica 2 wanted to buy a pick ax and give it a shot. Chica 1 knowingly would never go to an isolated area with Chica 2 and an ax  Nothing but trouble would ensue. Tee hee he

Chica 2 arranged for a nice birthday dinner at a local steakhouse The Outlaw. Chica 1 was as pleased as a mountain lion at the deer town hall meeting! The rib eye was fit for a birthday celebration and the leftovers were outstanding with eggs the next morning. As 2 Chicas bid Ouray goodbye, we promised to return for another round of fun perhaps in the fall.

2 Chicas Gunning to the Black Canyon

Chica 2 in her normal child like questioning asked what in the world is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison?  She said it sounded like a movie that would have a really tragic ending. Only Chica 2! 

Black Canyon is a spectacular national park that is not nearly well known as its northern cousin Rocky Mountain National Park.  2 Chicas were heading into the South Rim of the Canyon. The black rock and beautiful sheer canyons really make this an outing any nature lover must experience.

Chica 1 was so excited about checking out the canyons, she forgot to wait for the car to make a complete stop. Of course she accused Chica 2 of trying to kill her and turn this excursion into a ghostly horror flick - “The Black Canyon Haunting of the Lost Chica!” 

Chica 2 once again wished Chica 1 would shut up. After all that drama, maybe it would be a homicide investigation?  No that’s just n ot nice at all Chica 2!

The parking area does not adequately prepare you for the breathtaking views seen from the trails. While hiking to the first overlook, Chica 1 tripped and watched a few rocks topple over the edge. These trails are not steep at all, but Chica 2 laughingly reminded Chica 1 of her clumsiness. This is not the place for taking chances. 

The overlooks thankfully have a protective rail.  Looking down into the canyon is breathtaking. The drop off is deep and you can barely see the Gunnison River below.

Chica 2 threatened to go rock climbing.  She knows better than to make idle threats. Chica 1 said she would gladly pay for the right to take pictures of this spectacle. Of course Chica 2 was only joking. The North Rim is much more isolated and the trails are more difficult. Black Canyon of the Gunnison gets the 2 Chicas 2 Snap Salute! Enjoy the scenery and take a slow ride on the Gunnison River to get views of the canyon from below.

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Colorado - Part 1

2 Chicas Get All Hot and Bothered

As the plane descended into Denver, CO, Chica 1 began singing Rocky Mountain High! With the beautiful Rockies as a backdrop, the song soon shifted to one of the lines in New York State of Mind. Chica 1 has a nice voice, but she never knows all of the words to any song. Because Chica 2 doesn't know any better, she asked if Chica 1 could put that song (the made up one) on her MP3 player (not knowing these are two very different tunes). Surely John Denver and Billy Joel wouldn't care if their songs were morphed into a new 2 Chicas medley!

The Mile High City wasn't ready for the two fabulous girls so quickly, so the Colorado excursion began with a trip down I-25 South. Chica 1 squealed – “look, it’s the Potter’s House Denver!” Right off the road was one of Chica 1’s favorite Sunday night television offerings. Chica 2 suggested Chica 1 may need to spend a few days at the church sprawled out over the alter asking for forgiveness. Don’t we all Chica 2?

The drive down the interstate was relatively bland, but going through Colorado Springs, the twists and turns around the beautiful topography caused 2 Chicas to pause. Further down the road, close to Pueblo, was the exit that would take 2 Chicas to one of the most interesting sights in the country. In the midst of such beautiful mountainous terrain, are these incredible, desert-like sand dunes.  Chica 2 said maybe we could rent a dune buggy and fly up over the knolls all "hillbillyish."

For some reason Chica 1 immediately felt the elevation changes and was called a “bobble head” by Chica 2. Surely this vertigo condition would limit Chica 1’s time out on the dunes; so much for a dune buggy. (Just a note, there are no such rentals on site.)

2 Chicas always stop at the Visitor’s Center first to gather more information about the area and to obtain any advice or advisories from the Park Rangers.

They suggested we drink plenty of water and don’t underestimate the heat of the sand. Armed and ready, 2 Chicas headed over to the big sand box. Looking like two naive explorers from some old black and white movie, we marched side by side ready for some sun and fun.

Chica 2 inhaled deeply and remarked at the gigantic dunes that seemingly were approaching us. Chica 1 was speechless and a little breathless. These sand dunes are massive!

2 Chicas frequently spend time at the beach so walking on sand is not typically a big deal. But this sand is deep and hot. There are no compressed shells to make some areas firm. Each step sinks the foot firmly into the warm sand. Chica 2 said she didn't expect the hot dirt pedicure spa treatment. 

Well less than a mile out, Chica 1 looked over at Chica 2 and asked if she thought anyone would find our bodies. Chica 2 said yes and pointed over to the cute meerkats. Chica 2 babbled and said something about the cute guy in the film crew would certainly rescue her.

She pretended to be a damsel in distress, but alas, it was all just a mirage. Chica 1 weebbled and wobbled back to the car, sweating and hallucinating that some of the cars were large glasses of sangria. She asked for a priest.

Chica 1, you’re not even Catholic, and if you were, the priest probably wouldn't approve of the alcohol! Chica 1 always comes back strong - "it would be representative of the blood of Christ...." Sinners always convince themselves of doing wrong and pretending that it is right! Tee hee he

With the air conditioning turned on, Chica 1 quickly returned to her senses. Chica 2 soon appeared back at the car as well. She had enough of the desert like environment surrounding the sand. Needless to say, 2 Chicas were scared to get out of the vehicle for any more exploration! Chica 1 reached into her backpack and pulled out an I.V.  Tee hee hee

There are other beautiful areas in the park, including the gorgeous Medano Lake which has many hiking opportunities. You can also investigate the Montville Trail which is shady and relatively cool. Zapata Falls isn’t too far away, and is a great option if you get too hot. (Hint, hint)

If you are adventurous, you can tumble down a dune or better yet, spend the night on a dune! Just remember you have to make it to the top before you can come down. Although we were scorching, 2 Chicas are pleased that we had the chance to explore this American wonder.

2 Chicas headed over to the town of Alamosa to recuperate. After soaking in the hotel hot tub, (to break the fear of heat – go figure) Alamosa was a nice little town with plenty of restaurant choices.

2 Chicas hunkered down for the night. The next day would be Chica 1's birthday. As if that wasn't pressure enough, 2 Chicas would set off on a journey that would literally take us across the state.

2 Chicas and Four Corners!

Chica 2 was up bright and early and ready to hit the road. She is an excellent driver, which is a good thing, because her tenacity and skill would be tested! We set out from Alamosa to drive 240 miles to the Four Corners Monument. 

This trip would take us up and down and around some beautiful, mountainous country. We would look off into the distance and see the most beautiful summit, and within 30 minutes, would find ourselves high on that very mountain.

We drove through national wilderness areas, past Wolf Creek Pass and the Continental Divide, and through a national forest. The drive was stunningly beautiful and by the time 2 Chicas arrived in Cortez, CO, the road was starting to wear on us. We had not yet reached our destination but we had been in the car for hours! LAWD!! Chica 1 was getting cranky (which is normal if you ask Chica 2). Chica 2 was getting hungry (which is normal if you ask Chica 1).  Yet 2 Chicas pressed onward.

After leaving the city, 2 Chicas were suddenly in a very beautiful desert-like setting. There were buttes and plateaus, but primarily, dry land all the way to our destination within the Navajo Nation. There is an entry fee and they only take cash, so be prepared. Once inside the “park” 2 Chicas discovered their high expectations were going to be somewhat disappointed.

The Four Corners Monument was a circle on the ground that commemorated the spot a surveyor marked as four states intersecting. The Demonstration Center is a flea market-like semi circle of booths. Native Americans were selling their wares. Chica 2 bought beautiful jewels for her kids. Of course she posed in each triangle and tried to place her foot so that it resided in each state simultaneously. She also unceremoniously pointed at a visitor and whispered he had a “four corners head”.  Strangely, he did have a really square head that had four corners. Just joking! How perfectly outlandish and 2 Chicaish!

 

Chica 1 wanted to try the Navajo Fry Bread, which was a nice treat. After eating the little snack, Chica 1 became possessed by some long ago ancestor. She began sharing a story that she was from the Slapaho Tribe. She even took a swing at Chica 2 to prove her point. Awwh, nothing like good old fashioned fun…. Tee hee he

The area is very remote and isolated. If you come, enjoy your time here. 2 Chicas love anything Native American, so draw nearer, respect the lands and the people. If you have time, visit the true treasures at the Navajo Nation: Monument Valley, Window Rock or Lake Powell. 

Organize a large Twister Contest and see how many of your friends can simultaneously be in four states at one time! Tell em 2 Chicas said make your own rules but be respectful of everyone around you! Have fun.

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