Petrified Forest
March 26, 2007
We’ll drive, we’ll stop, we’ll walk a little. We’ll drive, we’ll stop, we’ll walk a little. We’ll drive, we’ll stop, we’ll walk a little. This is how to explain tediously driving around a National Park to a 4-year old. Make it into a pattern.
OK, that really didn’t work either. But Declan found his own way to enjoy the Painted Desert & Petrified Forest: he drew it (see below).
And he thought the trees that were so old that they turned into stones were way cool too.
I spend most of the day on my belly and got some of the most amazing photos of the stones, the crystals, the landscape… and of course, the boys. I took literally hundreds of photos. Wait till you see them all.
The weather was wonderful and I changed into shorts by the end of the day. A minor miracle considering what lay ahead of us at the Grand Canyon.
We headed west in the late afternoon and kept slipping in and out of Route 66. Bryan and I had some very interesting conversations while Declan was sleeping about: progress, how Route 40 changed the landscape of the Southwest, and how people are again interested in the nostalgia the Mother Road. It was also a little appalling to see all the Vegas-style casinos popping up along Route 40, not only because they are gigantic and garish next to the small Native American jewelry stands – but they are also calling themselves “Route 66 Casino” when they are actually on Route 40 (you know, the road that killed Route 66). And we got a whole different perspective when our son woke up, looked around and yelled, “Hey! It’s Radiator Springs!”
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Highlights from Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona:
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Aw! What great pictures. Looks like you’re having a grand time. Especially like the one of Declan on the rock.
Those are GREAT photos.
Did you… you know, see any Park Rangers? Heh.
Wow a Mutant Ninja Turtle fossil. So rare. I’m sure our girls would have the same Radiator Springs epiphany. 🙂
You’re giving him a great experience.
But be honest… did you brush his hair right before that picture with his hat off?
Be doubly honest… did you say “This one’s for the blog?”
;), Dd.
Also, awesome pics!!! I feel like I am on vacation with you!
G-man, isn’t that so RARE? We were shocked.
Wow – that place looks great. I think we’re going to have to check it out this summer.
Welcome home!