We started off relatively early today as it was definitely going to be an action packed day. Our first stop was to the mountain top community of Acoma pueblo which is the longest continuously inhabited community in North America. We were bussed up to the top of the mountain and a native American guide (an absolute font of knowledge) explained some of the history of his people. It was absolutely fascinating. We could have listened to him for hours. About a minute into the tour the unofficial guide strolled in...an Australian kelpie cross...and he basically ran the show going from person to person for the mandatory pat. The chapel, in particular, was magnificent and was steeped in a massive amount of history and folklore ( couldn't take photos inside). We then travelled into the Petrified Forest National park. Our first stop was for a quick lunch break where we experienced a Navajo taco ( lovely soft bread). Then after a little air conditioning issue ( handled superbly by Randy) we headed out to look at the Painted Desert Inn which would have been an oasis in its day. The landscape was quite spectacular and changed color and shape throughout the day. We then posed for photos where the route 66 road used to go through the national park. Then we ventured to the Rainbow forest to check out the petrified forest where the wood has basically turned to stone. Then it was off to visit a couple of route 66 iconic features ( love that term!) in the wigwam hotel (bizarre) and the man standing on the corner (from the eagles song). At some stage today we passed through the town of Gallup which is defined by long trains (172 carriages), casinos and refineries. We also came across antelopes and praire dogs (they are kind of cute). We have also been a tad Americanised by ordering a kaluha and cream (not milk)! Tonight we are in Flagstaff and tomorrow we divert a tad to head up to the Grand Canyon.