We rolled out of bed as the sun was coming up. It was really cold last night, probably into the high 20s, so the first order of business was turning up the heater and fixing a hot cup of coffee. We dressed warmly and briskly walked to the pancake and sausage line. The sky was clear, the air was crisp and a layer of frost sparkled in the morning sun. All we could think about was hot food.
Returning to the coach, we suspected some ice had formed in the water filter and hose; the warming sunlight would quickly thaw things out.
There were no seminars that interested us, so we piled in the Jeep and headed for the town of Aztec, about 10 miles away, to view some Indian ruins. Arriving, it was still cold, around 35 degrees, so we bundled up before leaving the warmth of the Jeep. The site was very interesting. Archeologists estimate the site was constructed around 1,100 AD and was a religious and cultural center of some importance. We were surprised to find some of the structures had been up to three stories tall and arranged in a way that provided a good defensible position in case of attack. Not quite a fort, but close. We stopped for lunch on the way back to the coach.
After hanging around the coach for a while, the wind stopped and the day warmed up. There were no more excuses left and we got on with the workout. The flat terrain and calm winds helped, but we had still not fully acclimated to running at 5,300 feet. I managed to eek out a continuous 25 minutes and Jeanne completed her intervals.
After cleaning up, we visited with our neighbors, Fred and Beverly for over an hour. Their story was compelling. Each had found themselves living alone after loosing a spouse to illness. They met at a support group for surviving spouses, began dating and eventually married about three years ago. Clearly, they share common interests in the arts, travel and lifestyle. Together they seem to be moving on with their lives.
Without disrespect, Fred and Beverly aren’t kids. Anyone retired with great-grandchildren easily falls within the AARP demographic. On reflection, what seemed strange to me was starting a long-term relationship later in life. Young folks have to build a relationship while worrying about young kids, mortgages and managing careers. With seniors, I suppose there are family and health issues, but the goals must be very different. In any event, it is heartwarming to see Fred and Beverly are happy and optimistic. They are fine people and I wish them well.
We drove into Farmington and stopped at a local Mexican restaurant. The meal was somewhat uninspired, but effective.
We returned to the coach and began preparations to leave the next morning.