Writer’s block. Covid-19 work stoppage. Pandemic panic. Depression. I don’t know what to call it, but I haven’t posted a new blog for a long time. I hope you didn’t miss me too much! During these difficult times, I should be writing more, adding new photographs. After all, publication of my new book, “Discovering the Colorado Plateau,” has been delayed until Sept. 1. Bummer, yet understandable. So, what else have I to do? Stare out the window all morning? No, I can’t do that. Then, I wouldn’t have anything to do all afternoon!
While we may be sheltering in place, we can always travel in our minds. For example, I can visualize a gorgeous spring day in Big Dominguez Canyon, searching for desert bighorn sheep, blooming barrel cactus and fascinating petroglyphs left from the Ancient Ones who used to travel this way.
My buddy Bill Elmblad has allowed his mind to travel to this special place:
“I’ve always thought about these (Native American) guys, up here pecking out pictures on sandstone cliffs, and wondered, ‘what would their spouses say when they got home?’”
“’Oh sure, you’re out there drawing pictures on rock, while I’m back here slaving over a hot fire, taking care of your rowdy kids, and helping grandma chew the leather. This may be her last winter, you know.’”
Elmblad lives close and visits the 210,000-acre National Conservation Area often. He knows that pictographs, petroglyphs, red rock canyons, sandstone bluffs, quiet solitude and outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities all make this a very special place.
So, take a couple minutes to travel with me to Big Dominguez Canyon in the heart of this NCA. Then, once we’ve survived this pandemic, come visit.
I thank my brother-in-law, Dr. Dennis Varley, for the beautiful music accompanying this short slide show. Enjoy!