Recovery Day

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Recovery Day

I planned on spending the night camped on Second Mesa, but with the weather (thunderstorms and loud noise), KC said “NO”. The closest location with lodging was Winslow, AZ. On the way here we went through the Petrified Forest/Painted Desert National Park. It is a small rather insignificant park, but it does protect the petrified wood.

It was mid-day when we got here with the sun high in the sky and the light flat for photography. However there were enough clouds to create contrasting images and the petrified wood is ideal for abstracts. So the day was spent driving and looking. Since the crowds were small, KC got to roam free often. He chased ravens, rodents, and lizards never catching them which pleased both of us. He is doing better, but rumble bars/strips and cattle guards still scare him with my lap usually the cover he seeks.

This morning we will be going to the Hopi Mesas and then on to Cedar City, UT. I will investigate the likelihood of Exceptional Image (my photography biz) moving to this location. Unlike Taos it is at the center of photography “hot spots” and much closer to CA. I will then be able to check on our “chickens” as if they need checking on. It is more about not forgetting and knowing we each have support close. Someday I may have others follow me - Melanie are you listening. Visiting will be easier also as the closest airports are Salt Lake City and Las Vegas (closest). However, any move would not likely happen until mid 2010 when housing sales start to rebound.

This was also a good day to deflate from the memories and emotional times Betty and I had in New Mexico. Taos and Santa Fe will always own a piece of my heart and as I stated in a previous update - our times there were legendary.

That is it except for a few photos. If any photographs in the blog do not render correctly, click on them and a new window should open with the photo displayed.

Next update from Cedar City or North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

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Photos

Painted Desert
Able to get good 3D effect in flat light

Painted Desert
Shadows from clouds provide good color contrast

Painted Desert - North
Foreground green provides good color contrast

Petrified Wood
Abstract with floating particles

Petrified Wood - Intense
Intense abstract

Petrified Wood - Colors
Pick a color any color