Tent Rocks & Petroglyph NM Oct 7

A cold night last night. I spent 5 minutes scraping ice from the car windows before I could set off. I was compelled to stop multiple times on the drive down the mountain. The vibrant fall colors still had a hold on me. Next stop was Kashi-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument where I got out for a several mile hike. I found a secluded shady place off the trail where I could eat lunch and read for an hour. I then drove to check out the Boca Negra portion of Petroglyphs NM. An amazing diversity of patterns, shapes and objects. I happily snapped photos of my favorites until my attention turned to a darker, more omenous subject. Tract houses line the monument here, less than 300 feet distant to the ancient masterpieces. I could fit 1000 years of human history in one photo. The juxtaposition gave me much to think about. I looked over these ancient works of art as people 400 feet away were going about their lives, walking dogs or delivering packages. I then walked Rinconada Canyon, enjoying some more petroglyphs in a slightly less suburban setting. I drove 80 miles so I could camp for free and be alone. I realize that says a lot about me. Excited for tomorrow.