Canyons and Kites, (3rd day on the road)

    Last night felt like one of those stops in Pilgrim’s Progress, when the hero rests in a beautiful castle or other amazing location.  We enjoyed time with Nate’s aunt and uncle and a scrumptious homemade meal.  The sweet night’s sleep was very welcome.
    A light day on the road.  We drove a mere 6 hours.  Signs warned us not to drive into smoke (due to fires) and every few miles we were reminded that we are traveling the famous Route 66.
    Last night we arrived in another beautiful oasis.  Mile after mile of fields that extend all the way to the horizon, turned into red canyon walls and thick lush trees (and poison ivy) as we drove into Red Rock Canyon State Park, Oklahoma.
    Within 5 minutes Gabe had found a new bird.  A few Mississippi Kites were making their home, and at times making babies, in the trees above our camper.  Pretty exciting for our nature enthusiasts.  We chased birds up and down the red canyon walls.  These adventures led to the first 2 rules or our trip.

1. Do not go anywhere (up or down) from which you are unable to return
2. Don’t touch poison ivy.

    Luke put rule 1 to the test after dinner when he climbed a cliff and was exploring the desert area on top. After about 10 minutes, Luke stopped answering our yells and remained out of contact for about 20 minutes.  He found us again happy and healthy, albeit a little nervous.
    The boys were set for adventure, though, with stylish backpack water bottles from their Grandma Koelble. When they asked to do the scenic route around the state park we had to say yes.  The four of us hiked up, then walked the rim of the canyon (not too close to the edge), keeping our eyes open for landmarks below and birds above.      The journey got us back to our silver home on wheels as the sun was setting.  It was a beautiful evening hike over fine red sand and enormous slabs of rock.