After a late start this morning I made a simple breakfast for the two of us, eggs and toast. The convection cooking we are using instead of the little propane range is terrific. After breakfast G took clothes to the local laundromat and I went out for a 2 mile walk. I picked up ten C&TS pins to give to the children on the train at the end of a ride. This comes out of my pocket and I like to give pins to the youngsters who show particular interest in the train and spend time asking questions. I had a particularly alert youngster travelling with his mother over to Antonito. When we went over the the Boxcar for supper we found him and his parents there as well. I took a pin off my shirt and pinned it on the young man's sweat shirt. I was surprised when he came over to our table and said, "Thank-you Mr. John" - he could only see my first name on my badge.
We have been making short visits to several places
On a whim we decided to go to Ghost Ranch which is 46 miles south of Chama. Along the way we visited a natural amphitheater about two miles north of Ghost ranch. It is a beautiful but neglected spot. Surprisingly there is no vandalism, trahs or graffiti but the steps are decaying and most of the interpretive data has been removed. It is a remarkable place and I have many pictures of it.
At just past 1:30pm we arrived at Ghost Ranch. I don't know much about and would rely on Paul to tell us the history of the place. Georgia O'Keeffe was in residence for some time and we did see her little cottage which is near the Welcome Center. Unfortunately, the Welcome Center didn't offer much in the way of information on the place.
It is all a bit confusing there as all sorts and styles of lodging seem to be available. The crowd seemed to be composed mainly of several groups, older white liberal, younger white counter culture and, for want of a better term, new-age types. Unfortunately we both must plead ignorance on the relationship of both the PC USA and other goings on there. There are many well marked trails into the surrounding desert but we were ill-prepared for such a trek.
I look forward to learning more about this place and it is on our list of places to explore next year and thereafter.
Tomorrow another train which is being assembled as I write. It will likely be double-headed up to Cumbres. I will be with a very senior docent and will likely be answering questions as he give the presentation. Monday is an off day and we will start organizing things for our trip home. We are scheduled to meet Jerry and Sally, our long-time friends at the Chama Dapot at 4:00 that afternoon. We will take the motor coach over to Antonito and the train westbound to Chama on Turesday. Wednesday is my farewell trip on the Cumbres and Toltec as I docent the train from Antonito to Chama. Thursday we will pack and depart around 10:00am. First stop is Lamar, CO. On Friday we drive aboud 450 miles to Salina, KS and then the final 450 miles home on Saturday.
It has been both rewarding and frustrating. The issues with the trailer overshadowed what should have been a pleasant time. Hopefully, that will never be repeated in the future. Other issues remain unsettled but will be resolved one way or the other before our return next year - which is settled.
See you Saturday.
