The family embarked on our first day out to nearby Sunset Crater National Park.  The place is quite interesting in that about 1,000 years ago (scientists estimate) the place was covered in lava as a volcano erupted. Even today, it looked as if a bulldozer wreaked havoc on the place.

What was simply amazing is that despite there being acres of ash and lava rock as far as the eye can see, life prevails. Our minds immediately drew the parallel with what is quoted in Psalm 113:7 “He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap.” Whether its human life or a mere tree, God enables life to rise above a catastrophe for all who call on His name.

Ruthie continued being a hearty traveller.  Her first experience in the baby backpack was pure bliss.  As we walked the one mile lava trail, she was giggling, laughing and then fell fast asleep.

Meanwhile, the family took in the sights and the experience of walking on an ancient volcano.

The National Park Service has a neat program for kids called Junior Rangers.  We were thinking that all you had to do is run through a few tasks and you get the obligatory participation certificate.  No so.  The boys did have to finish certain tasks, but when they went to the park Ranger to turn in their task list, they were quizzed on everything they wrote down – even Jeremy! When Jeremy forgot to circle something, the Ranger walked him over to a display and had him point out the correct answer to a question she asked him.  After an acceptable test result, the boys had to take an oath, raising their right hand and reciting with the Ranger that they will participate in taking care of the National Forest lands – pretty heavy stuff!

I couldn’t participate in the “ceremony” since I was with Ruthie in the car, but I heard what was going on inside and snapped the oath-taking from afar.

And here’s the badge they earned (which have been worn ever since)