May 27 White Sands Monument

Well, what a surprise! We thought New Mexico was all barren desert. Notta! It is a bouquet of beautiful trees, flowers and gorgeousness. We drove through the Sacramento Mountains on our way to our campground. It was spectacular. We passed through San Patricio, Tinnie, Ruidaso, Mescalaro and Tularosa. The contrast of the green valleys with the starkness of the brown desert was breathtaking. Lots of Mexican influences with their adobe buildings and also a strong Indian influence. We drove into Alamogordo and camped in Dog Canyon, at the base of the 8100 ft. peak shown in the picture. After setting up we drove to White Sands Nat'l Monument. Just when I thought I saw the best, I couldn't believe this! Miles and miles of beautiful sand dunes. Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin, it is one of world's greatest natural wonders. Great wave-like dunes of gypsum sand have engulfed 275 sq. miles of desert and created the world's largest gypsum dune field. The while dunes are always growing, cresting, then slumping, but always advancing. Slowly but relentlessly, the sand, driven by strong southwest winds, covers everything in its path. There are unique plants and animals that have adapted to this harsh and constantly changing environment. We drove the road in the dunes noticing how plows have to keep cleaning the streets. Eddy, you would be jealous of the white sand that I have. Just a little bag. This was truly a beautiful day! Love to all.