October 27, 2008 by MyEye
There are a number of readers (living where there are no lava beds) who are smitten with the contorted lava shapes. Here is yet another photo from Valley of Fires. This one clearly shows the folds of the lava as it crash-cooled when it spilled out onto the earth.
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October 27, 2008 by MyEye
I think I’d promised a trip to the Village of San Luis Cabezon, but have decided instead that we would start along the Salt Mission Trail. The three missions, Abo, Quarai, and Gran Quivera are studies in texture and color. Each was built with the rock and stone on the land surrounding it. The structures amaze me every time I visit them. Can you imagine the manpower it required to haul all the materials to create these massive church-fortress buildings?
These were among the earliest missions in the southwest. The priests directed the construction. Each of the missions contained areas for meeting, for storing provisions (the harvest), and protected views so the structures could be used as fortresses. The missions and surrounding grounds are all federally protected. There are potshards scattered all around and after a rain, still more surface. Taking them is a violation of Federal law — though it’s certainly tempting.
I cannot imagine how difficult life must have been in these great stone structures which I believe were modeled after the castles of Europe.
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I am past sixty-five and still practicing law. I have two terrific sons, they have lovely wives, and I have one truly special granddaughter. At home are three Cardigan Welsh Corgis that amuse and challenge me. We participate in lots of dog-related activities. I love my camera, writing, and roaming. I live in central New Mexico because it's where I want to be. Thanks for visiting my blog. Your (tasteful) comments are welcome.
