I’m on day two of the walking challenge, which fits in nicely with today’s as-you-go itinerary. We took off in the Jeep for a short trek into the Platos Mountains. I took pics here and there of great views, and wild flowers. The snow has almost melted off.

Then we went back down and into the nearest town, Mancos. We visited three amazing art galleries located on the same street and had the best conversations with the artisans there! I didn’t take pics but came away with some history of the area. By the way, the correct pronunciation is not maincõs-but mancus. That’s how the locals say it.

I bought a card made by the first artist we talked to in her gallery, of the Mesa Verde Spruce Tree House by Jan Wright. The image on the card is from a bigger painting she did of the Luminaria Night Magic which was adopted by Mesa Verde’s Dark Night Sky Program. We were told that is a must see, so we have plans to go sometime soon.

She told us that is where the nation’s largest cliff dwellings are including the cliff palace. Her painting shows them lit up, with the Arora borealous in the night sky above. It is for my granddaughter, Rayven in Ohio. She asked for a post card but I liked this better.

In the next gallery, Indian art and ancient potter graced us as well as gorgeous jewelry and another tale regarding Indian culture. In fact, she herself grew up on the Navajo Reservation at her parent’s trading post. I’m sure this started her love of importing great artworks. Both galleries featured mixed media, pottery, jewelry paintings, Navajo rugs, etc. I didn’t get her name, but I’ll be back! Saturday is the Burro Fest- a hoot we were also advised not to miss!! She inticed me with an offer to taste authentic fry bread, and that I can’t wait to taste. Evidently, they try to saddle the burros and lead them through an obstacle course. That ought to be fun!

The last gallery had a married couple and the gentleman, an Airforce veteran, talked Dave’s ear off the entire time we browsed. I love that! We learn so much about people and places that way. He started his love when his wife asked him for a stained glass window, this led to more glass artworks, and the gallery boasted those and more. Too many things to talk about by various local artisans.

We had lunch in the Columbine Bar and Grill, a delicious salad for me, and a toasted Reuben for Dave. Then we headed back home. Later, since all that did not accrue enough steps, I did my mile around the park again, truly working my heart this time. These hills are murder! I snapped some different flowers and the brook again, which was high. I will post a gallery and ask this question. If the card I bought was public, shouldn’t it be ok to share on my blog?

I don’t know any of the names of the flowers, just thought they were pretty.