Christina Solstad - Spirit of Chaco Blog

Chaco Canyon Field Report -- Last Day at Camp

We had some major winds through the Chaco Canyon campground. Always beware of the Chaco winds!
My wonderful shade tarp did not hold up, and was broken in two or three places.
It looks pretty sad, but still provides some welcome shade in the desert heat.
It all comes down today. :-(
I am always sad when it is time to leave Chaco. It has been a great trip.
For those I got to meet here, I hope your travels are safe, and we get to meet again!
(sent via my Treo phone north of Chaco.)

Chaco Canyon Field Report -- Volunteering on Solstice

I had great fun volunteering at Chaco Canyon on solstice.
As a parking volunteer, I got to greet the visitors as they arrived for the sunrise at Casa Rinconada, and for the two sets of Acoma dances at Pueblo Bonito.
What better way to enjoy my time here than to help others have a great day?!
My bonuses were those of you who introduced yourselves and told me you loved Spirit of Chaco Blog, and learned something from it!!
Steve, Matt, and Misty, you made my day and week -- Thank you!
The photo is one of the sunrises I got to see as I headed to Casa Rinconada to see the solstice marker.

Chaco Canyon Field Report -- Solstice Dancing at Pueblo Bonito

The Acoma (Cyrus Concho Dancers) danced two times in the plaza at Pueblo Bonito on solstice.
What an honor to watch them dance their traditional social dances, as their ancestors would have done!
I don't know how they managed in the desert heat -- and am most grateful.
(More photos and details in future posts, once I return to my computer.)
(Sent via my Treo phone direct from just north of Chaco.)

Chaco Canyon Field Report -- Solstice Sunrise at Casa Rinconada

Solstice sunrise at Casa Rinconada is always a special and sacred event.
Here is the way it looked as I walked up to the great kiva (after parking all our great visitors!). I could hear the Acoma drumming prior to the sunrise.
Here is a photo of the kiva wall with the solstice marker, and shadows of gathered visitors.
I'll plan to post more photos later.

(Posted from my Treo phone just outside Chaco.)

Flowers at Chaco Canyon - A Beautiful Sight

At Chaco Canyon you may enjoy wonderful flower displays in the spring, summer, and fall, depending on rain. Sometimes you have to look closely, as they may be small and close to the ground, and sometimes they are large wild desert displays that you can't miss. They are always a joy to see and bring a smile to my face.

Here are some of the Chaco flowers I have seen over the years, with more to come in future posts. Enjoy!