Exploring the Southwest

The children excitedly told him their idea and waited anxiously as he sat thinking it over.

“Well,” said Dad, “there’s a whole week before school starts.  Let’s check with your mother to see how she feels about a trip to Denver, and having another Saint Bernard.”

Having gained Mother’s enthusiastic approval, the family climbed into the car the next morning and were on their way. As before, they were greeted warmly by Mr. Bombarito.  “Yes indeed, I do have another grandson of Lassie’s, and I am sure he would like nothing better than to join you and Prince.”

Bobby picked him up and snuggled him.  “He does look like Prince – let’s call him Duke!”

Of course, they couldn’t leave Denver without seeing Lassie and Princess, so another joyous reunion took place.

Back home in Los Alamos, they began recalling the trip they had just completed to the Indian Country.  They remembered their visit to the Trappist Monastery of Our Lady of Guadalupe before they set out, and Father Augustine’s blessing on them and their trip……………………

(EARLIER THAT SUMMER) 

After the blessing, Father sent them happily on their way.  First, they stopped at Valle Grande which is the crater of an extinct volcano, a huge grassy bowl.   In the corner of that bowl, is a retreat house for priests.  This day, Cardinal Spellman of New York was there, and he blessed the family. 

Santo Domingo, famous for its pottery of various colors,  was their next stop.