Just a few miles from us (as the raven flies) are the magnificent Quarai ruins. There is a poignant history of the building of this church in the 17th century, when Native Americans were pressed into service by Spanish missionaries. After completing the structure, The Pueblo Indians provided food and help over many years to the Franciscans.
The structure was deserted in the early 1670s, but the remains have an austere beauty and not surprising, amazing acoustics. My brother Alex and I, during his visit 3 years ago performed an impromptu, resonant duet of “You are my Sunshine” inside the structure.
On this weekend visit to Quarai we spotted an owl on her nest high in the structure of the ruins, her mate just above as a lookout.
Heavenly Hiking
With the warm New Mexico sun beating on our backs and the lush cottonwood trees lining the way, my daughter-in-law Diana and I took off on our own private hike in the surrounding hills.
We feasted our senses on this glorious New Mexico day. There were delightful pink wood roses perfuming the air for acres and lizards soaking up the sun. We traveled over red rock “steps” on the primitive trail that overlooked the ruins, with dozens of cottonwood trees in full summer leaf.
My son David and their younger kids stayed behind to play “Star Wars,” on a picnic table – AKA the “Millennium Falcon.” Teenage Ada read her book. Everyone was happy.
It was balmy. Warm with steady breezes. A perfect, perfect day.
Where are your favorite places to walk on a lazy Sunday afternoon?
Your Animal Loving Artist,
Merry
