Mesa Verde

I know what you're thinking, "Mesa what??" That's what I thought when Phil first started talking about going to Mesa Verde National Park for our family trip this summer. I wasn't that thrilled with the whole idea of driving six hours to see some ancient Cliff Dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans. But, I tell you it was pretty darn cool. Add having grandpa and grandma around, a fun hotel and perfect weather and you have a great, quick trip down south.

The boys participated in the Jr. Ranger program and that made the trip for us. They learned a lot by completing their requirements. It kept them watching for landmarks on our walks and interested in what we were looking at. These ancient dwellings from 700-900 years ago were amazing.

This is Cliff Palace, the largest of the bunch.
Ben and Jake looking down at a kiva.

The last dwelling we toured was called Long House. We could see a storm coming, and as we approached the dwelling, it started pouring. We were able to get up inside and listened to the tour guide while the rain came down outside. It was an amazing feeling to be up in there and hear and smell the rain while we were safely inside. It made it seem more real to think about the people that once lived here long ago. VERY cool!

A seep stream, their source of water, and our source for the last item on our Bingo card!
The boys loved all the ladders! Such a fun trip.

Here are our official Jr. Rangers, including the one and only "Harry Potter" (without his straw wand):

They had to draw what they liked best about Mesa Verde. Here's Micah's drawing (him on a ladder):

And Jacob's: