Rio Grande - 04.24.2011

Lush vegetation abounds along the Rio Grande as it meanders through the New Mexico desert.

To the north...




To the south...




A view of the Rio Grande from the west...




A satellite view ...



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Trinity Site - 04.24.2011

After passing the Valley of Fires, we passed the Trinity Site entrance. We were there in 10.2008. The Trinity Site is open to the public only twice a year - first weekends in April and October.

It is a stark contrast seeing cows - serene and natural - amidst the borders of the White Sands Missile Range where the Trinity Site - site of the first atomic blast - is a few miles away.











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Valley of Fires - 04.24.2011

On the drive from Capitan to Socorro, we passed through the Valley of Fires. For miles, there are massive black solidified lava flows. It is an impressive site.
















This satellite view shows the expanse of the lava.



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Smokey Bear Historical Museum - Capitan - 04.24.2011

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Wok Inn Super Buffet - Alamogordo - 04.24.2011

Lunch.
























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Grave of the First Chimp in Space - Alamogordo - 04.24.2011

When we visited the Space museum back in 10.2008, it was raining so hard that we did not walk the few steps to the grave of the first chimp in space. This was unfinished business with me since that time. Finally, on this day, we were able to see his grave as well as a memorial to astronauts who lost their lives for the glory of space travel.



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White Sands National Monument - 04.24.2011

When we were here 2 1/2 years ago, there was practically no one around. This day was Easter Sunday and it was filled with families picnicking among the beautiful white sand dunes.















































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