We toured sites that portrayed the evolution of housing from pit houses, to beautifully constructed masonry castles. Pit houses evolved into circular kivas, with ventilation systems, an elaborate roof truss systems, and tunnels to adjoining structures. (This progression took place from A.D. 600 to 1300.)
There are marvelous views, including Shiprock, that are reputed to be among the most far reaching and dramatic in the country. Because of the recent storm activity, the clarity of the air was exceptional, as we could see for over 100 miles in all directions from Park Point Overlook., located at nearly 9,000 feet.
Today is my birthday, and we celebrated by going to dinner at the Metate Room in the Far View Lodge, which is located deep in the park. We have eaten dinner at the Ahwahnee in Yosemite, and the El Tovar in the Grand Canyon. This was, by far, the best! The restaurant is located on a knoll with a view measured in the hundreds of miles. Clouds and rain shifted in and out of view, and at one point, a double rainbow appeared right outside the window adjoining our table. Great!! We started with a special gingerbread martini with butterscotch vodka, ginger beer, and several others liquors. Very tasty! Next came the best Caesar salad I have ever experienced, followed by cinnamon dusted pork tenderloin served in a chipotle cream sauce, with marinated, grilled shitake mushrooms and polenta. Excellent! Donna had grilled trout dusted with pine nuts and blue corn, served with a garlic greens and roasted shallot cream sauce. The prickly pear creme brulee was delicious. Wow! San Franscico quality restaurant food in the middle of nowhere!! On the drive down the mountain, we experienced a dazzling sunset.
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