The Land of Enchantment

We had a change of plans and weren't able to go to Kentucky to climb at Red River Gorge. I'm pretty sure that is why I was moody when we left Texas. I guess I am a sick sort of person thinking a dead armadillo is funny, but I perked up for some reason after that. Instead of taking the fastest way back to Lake City, we took the scenic route, first stop - Carlsbad Caverns. I'm not a huge fan of caves, but this place was absolutely amazing. Even more amazing? They discovered the place because they were mining for bat guano - yep, you heard right. Apparently, guano is a hot commodity, a very rich fertilizer. Garrett and I spent 4 hours in the cavern, touring the big room and taking tons of photos. My favorites were the stalactites. It was about 56 degrees in the cave which was refreshing after driving over in 106 degree weather the day before and camping in the heat wave. Beautiful beautiful place, everyone should go there at least once!


Over the weekend, we camped and climbed at Enchanted Tower, the best sport climbing in New Mexico. We almost had the entire area to ourselves, but luckily some of the locals showed up, b/c we had absolutely no beta on the place except the fact that everything on the tower was 5.11b or harder. Saturday morning was a bit chilly, but climbing overhung routes, we warmed up quickly. Sunday was windy but a lot warmer. I projected the Black Streak, an 11c, but I was in no shape for it. I made progress in the two tries - hung twice on the first attempt, only once on the second - but that is one more project I have aquired, luckily this one's not half way around the world. I know I pushed myself, though, b/c I was utterly exhausted when the day was done. I don't think I've ever been so tired! Uncle Kelly was right when he said they would be the biggest holds we ever fall off of! Great times were had!


On our way back to CO, we stopped in Santa Fe to check it out. First stop - Trader Joes! Brownie Mix, Apple Spice Bread Mix, 2 buck chuck and $5 six-packs of beer. How we wish we had a Trader Joes in Colorado!! Second stop - Cafe Dominic downtown. Best breakfast burriots EVER! Just the perfect amount of eggs, potatoes, cheese, onions and Christmas chili! YESSS

Overall, I was very excited about our trip to the Land of Enchantment, it definitely was enchanting haha! The drive to LC was windy, but shorter than expected, which was great. We made progress on our project already since we've been back. And we haven't been blown away yet - something big seems to be coming.