We who live in the Southwestern United States are blessed with an abundance of spoils in our Natural Wonders. As an Arizonan ensconced in Sedona, our location offers access to countless historical and breathtaking National Parks and Monuments.

As of this writing (January 2019,) many National Parks and Monuments are sure to be impacted negatively by the U.S. Government Shutdown. It is unclear when this impasse will be resolved. A few comments on the situation:  Principle & National Security are more important than fleeting (phony) polling numbers and political posturing by most of the idiots in Washington, D.C.. Credit goes to our President (Commander in Chief) for “working” to improve our nation’s security. One would think after September 11, 2001, a secure border would be an urgent priority.

Nearly 18 years after that horrific holocaust, the “border issue” persists. We sent men to the moon and back 50 years ago, yet we can’t secure a border? Without border security (integrity) there can be no real National Security (sovereignty.) Here’s hoping our elected officials in our nation’s capitol can figure it out for the country’s benefit, but if past history serves as a guide: Doubtful. Until then…

plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose

Everyone knows the Grand Canyon and without question this place is beyond description. The first time you lay eyes on the canyon you experience a dawning. It’s almost too much to take in, more so when you hike in and out on your own steam. The first time this writer hiked it was painful, you felt it, yet afterward you can’t wait to do it again! The Grand Wazoo

Depending on where you live, there are sure to be “one of a kind” places within driving distance where you can roam, clear your mind & escape all the screens crashing in… 

Three places in the Southwest worth a visit are:

White Sands National Monument, New Mexico: Established in 1933, a visit to White Sands will haunt you. Depending on when you go, you can experience solitude and quiet, eerie quiet, and at other times Howling Winds, often within a single day:

Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah: Similar to Bryce Canyon, but on a smaller scale with fewer crowds, and just as many endless vistas and spires:

Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona: This Sky Island was where Geronimo holed up. Truly off the beaten’ path, a land with mystique, Chiricahua offers escape into another world within our wold:

Get Up, Get Out! Dance (Pt. 1)