monument valley

After a rest and some more painting, we set out in the afternoon for the 2 hour hike around the great ‘mitten’. Above us the giants soar, like skyscrapers in lateral vision. At our feet a gritty riverbed, flat rocks, sand and strange clays, some turquoise coloured. As on all well worn paths, we are guided by cairns, which we repair as we go. Desert plants are sometimes labelled: rubber rabbit brush, service plant, red juniper, narrow leaved yucca. No sign of animals and very few birds except the ubiquitous ravens. The weather is perfect for walking. We get back ready for dinner. Bee is our waitress again. Mine’s chicken baked in apple brine served with delicious corn and mashed potatoes. I choose the white gravy. There’s enough chicken for two good sandwiches for tomorrow.