The Long Summer 2025

Out west again

  • Leaving Monument valley for MOAB, home of Adventures ?

    Forest Gump’s last run. Im pretty tired , think I’m going home now !

    For the longest time I wanted to visit Antelope Canyon, always pretty pictures , no idea what it would look like in real life. So it really is pretty spectacular, it’s narrow , its dark and very contrasty . And it is very busy , everyone wants the same , the “slot Canyon” to them selves . I was lucky to have a photo tour , three people in the group . just had to sit and wait for the regular tourists to pass through. worth seeing though , it’s amazing what beautiful art water and wind erosion can create. It’s really stunning . I couldn’t get into the upper or lower Antelope Canyon , too busy . But Deidre booked me a new site with less traffic . that’s love !

    Or in Black and White

    Utah is renowned for its stunning slot canyons, which showcase the remarkable artistry of nature sculpted over millennia by wind and water. These narrow, winding passages, such as Antelope Canyon and Buckskin Gulch, feature towering walls adorned with vibrant colors and intricate patterns that shift with the sunlight. The interplay of light and shadow creates a mesmerizing visual experience, attracting photographers and adventurers from around the globe. As visitors navigate through these enchanting canyons, they are often left in awe of the powerful forces of erosion that have shaped this breathtaking landscape, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.

    MOAB , Utah

    Nice Butt !

    It’s how you look at it.

    Moab, Utah, has a significant radioactive history, primarily due to uranium mining that took place throughout the mid-20th century. During the post-World War II era, Moab became a pivotal location for uranium extraction, supplying material essential for nuclear energy and weapon development. The area is home to the former Atlas Uranium Mill, where large quantities of uranium ore were processed. This mining activity altered the landscape and raised environmental concerns due to radioactive waste, leading to contamination issues. Today, efforts are ongoing to address the environmental impacts and safely manage the remnants of this once-thriving industry, making the history of Moab a poignant reminder of the complex relationship between industrial progress and environmental health.

    Moab, Utah, is a breathtaking oasis nestled amidst the stark red rock formations and vast desert landscapes, offering a stunning contrast to the deep blue skies above. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and unique geological features, such as the iconic Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab serves as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The vibrant hues of the sandstone, sculpted by millennia of erosion, create an ever-changing canvas that captivates visitors at every turn. With its enchanting sunsets and diverse ecosystems, Moab showcases the raw beauty and majesty of the natural world, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and inspiration.

  • Navajo Indians own the land , monument valley, and thousands of acres around it . 8 dollars every day you want to enter and many Navajo led tours for tourists without their own car. what to say, the area around the park is poor , there is too much garbage around the roads , I feel their is very little respect for the land by the tribe, garbage should be picked up , have some pride in this amazing area of the world. Still there are so many national parks we have been to , that are immaculate , no hundreds of cans and bottles around the roads . No plastic and bags everywhere . I don’t know but it could be better.

    On the other hand , there is this beautiful 17 mile loop a ways outside of Monument Valley, called valley off the gods, free entry , free camping , no garbage anywhere , no “you can’t do this , you can’t do that” signs anywhere . feels that it works , there was not a piece of garbage anywhere , the roads were rough and 10 miles an hour was enough . The few tourists you see are friendly and in awe of the surroundings . respect . maybe ?

    Wild West it is.

    Few left over Pictures of the first week .

  • On the road again, left a little over a week ago to cross the US in a week, stoped in Nashville for some chicken and cousin Sofie visit. Nice. Now we are on our first stop , Monument Valley. Iconic location for Wild West movies . Instantly recognizable to anyone, with its towering pillars and valleys as far and vast as can be imagined.

    Our trip takes us through the west , National Parks, little charming towns , Nuclear towns and rich towns . more on this later .

    Enjoy the pictures , hopefully one posting every few days , leave comments and send us your love!!

    Enjoy the trip.

    Geological Formation of Monument Valley
    Monument Valley’s dramatic landscape, characterized by towering sandstone buttes and mesas, was shaped over hundreds of millions of years through a combination of sedimentation, tectonic uplift, and erosion.The buttes are typically composed of three main layers: Organ Rock shale at the base, de Chelly sandstone in the middle, and Moenkopi shale on top. The caprock (harder upper layer) protects the softer rock beneath, resulting in the slender, towering shapes as the surrounding material erodes away.

    Navajo scenes.