April 6, 2014

Bryce Canyon National Park opened at 8:00am so we made sure to be one of the first people there since we would drive towards the Grand Canyon that same day. The view was stunning. The rock formations formed pillars of earth, also known as Hoodoos, that made up this large canyon. The Paiute Native Americans believes that the hoodoos were the Legend People whom the trickster Coyote turned to stone.

Chris and I walked along the ridge and reach the largest Inspiration Point that overlooked the valley. We walked along the a small outstretched cliff and sat with our feet hanging off. There was something liberating about having such beauty and vastness be around you. A few Chinese tourists at the lookout point walking area took pictures of us on this ledge entertained by our risk.

We continued to Bryce point for another great view and took a moment to mediate there. When you take the time to calm yourself in such a surrounding and open your eyes again, it is like looking through a different perspective. I highly recommend it when you get a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature. Here is a short guide intro on how to mediate. I would test it 5 minutes your first time.

Chris and I decided to hitchhike back to where our RV, “Bucket”, was parked since most of the park’s paths were closed and met a friendly German couple who took us along. We drove towards Grand Canyon until Chris noticed this dome shaped house on our right. We decided to take the exit and see who lived there. A man named John and his wife Rhonda lived there. John was a permaculture farmer on his 20 acres of land. Permaculture is a method of agriculture based on the natural patterns and relationships found in nature. For example, John would have his cows eat the grass on a small quadrant of grass and then move them each day to preserve the grass. 3 days later he would release chickens on that same quadrant, which would feed on the fly larva found in the cows poop. The chickens would be fed and the cows would avoid the problematic flies as a result.

John spent 4 hours telling us about his 100% recycled, solar-powered farm and showing us everything from his dome house to his chicken coupe. He was extremely well read with shelves of books about permaculture, but also philosophy. He taught me one very important principle: “Society is far from perfect, but I believe that you should not try to change society. If you truly want to create change, create an example of the society you wish to see.” Once John completes his permaculture system, he plans to open a school to teach his perfected method to self-sustainable agriculture. His wife Rhonda gave us some of the best damn eggs and vegetables I have ever tasted. Thank you!!!

After a packed day, Chris and I continued on our journey and stopped in a town called Kanab. We talked a lady at the gas station who helped us find some free wifi at a motel. So we parked behind the motel and tapped in to send out some of our first posts on Facebook since our journey had started. We fell asleep satisfied from a nature and education filled day.