It was a Scamping first. I had just woken up and gotten Sam into the Pilot in the Walmart parking lot in Las Vegas, NM, ready to head to Pecos National Historical Park, when a friendly looking woman hopped out of her RV, approached me, and said my name.
I gave her a dopey look and a groggy greeting, and she introduced herself as blog reader Jeannie. She explained that she’d recognized Sadie and me as she was passing by, and just wanted to say hello.
My dopey look changed to flabbergasted (which I’m guessing looked no different to Jeannie), and I had the sudden urge to hug her, but didn’t want to freak her out. Plus, I hadn’t showered in a couple days. (Jeannie, you’re welcome.) She not only made my week, but she also caused me to redefine success. Screw awards and accolades – I just want to be recognized in Walmart parking lots by nice people.
As a post script, I was grateful that just before Jeannie arrived I had brushed my teeth and put on a cleanish t-shirt. I don’t want to be the origin for the phrase “Scuzzy Scamping,” or associated with unkempt, rarely seen creatures like Bigfoot.
So, all that happened and it was pretty great.
Still aglow from my Jeannie encounter, we got to Pecos (New Mexico) where, as always, the rangers were ever so nice and helpful. They let Sam walk with me on leash on the trail, and alerted me to the apparently Sadie-destroying road on the way to Chaco Canyon, which was on my route. I Heart Park Rangers.
Pecos NHP is home to Indian pueblo ruins, as well as a church the Spaniards built in an effort to convert the Native Americans to Christianity. The Pecos Valley is gorgeous, lush and fertile, and was a center for trade among native peoples. Location, location, location was true then, just like now.
Inside a kiva looking out.
What remains of the church.
From inside the church ruins.
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Nothing wrong with being a Wal-Mart celebrity. Maybe next time it will be at a truck stop layover. Looks like some beautiful spots in NM and always look forward to reading your posts.
Janet/Mom – Right! I can only dream of being recognized at a Flying J, ha. Thanks for the kind words.
I’ve never had anyone recognize me just from my blog, but I am sure it must be a thrill. I bet this won’t be the only time it happens.
Martha – A girl can dream, ha. Seriously though, it was so much fun.
It was a thrill for me, too! I had just gotten the email from your blog saying you would be out traveling and there you were! Yay! So great to see you in person. Loving the pictures you are getting at the sites. So gorgeous!
Hope to meet you on the road again, when we can have time to chat and share our travel tales and tips.
Safe travels!
Jeanne
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Jeanne – Yes! Next time we’ll grab a beverage and have a proper conversation. Looking forward to it.
That’s so cool! Can I have your autograph?!
Susi – You’re so cute.
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