Every time I come out here, I’m utterly amazed. It sincerely bewilders me that such a beautiful place exists on Earth. Surrounded by astounding nature, the experience is nothing short of ethereal. The colors of this land are simply piercing, revealing the texture of each Navajo sandstone with mysterious hues. The way the sunlight interacts with the landscape is mesmerizing.
The dry air feels different—composed of molecules I only sense here. The wind whispers through this unique atmosphere, and I can almost feel the colors in the dry air. The Southwest is painted with vivid reds, oranges, and yellows, each telling a story of the earth’s history. The iron oxide imparts rich red tones to the rocks, making you wonder if this is what Mars might feel like when we terraform it.
The Colors of the Southwest
Lake Powell is a tapestry of geological wonders. The brilliant reds of the sandstone cliffs owe their hues to iron oxide minerals, such as hematite. The whites are often due to layers of gypsum or quartz. The dark streaks that cascade down the rock faces are manganese oxide deposits, adding depth and contrast to the landscape.
The interplay of these minerals creates a palette that is both stark and vibrant. The colors shift with the changing light, from dawn to dusk, offering a visual feast that is both captivating and humbling.
Amazing Friends of Page, Arizona
I’ve been fortunate to befriend some incredible people in Page, Arizona. Every single one of them has been simply wonderful. We have shared life’s joys and challenges, collaborated on business projects from websites to photography, and enjoyed meals, stories, and drinks together. Going out onto the lake with them has been a highlight. They are absolutely amazing! Some of the adventures they’ve shared, like how they met, including a few on the Grand Canyon river, are unforgettable. I’ve been deeply moved by the kindness and generosity of everyone I’ve met. They’ve welcomed me into their homes, their families, and shared their lives with such openness and warmth.
I feel truly honored and grateful to have crossed paths with each one of them. Their stories are inspiring, their hearts are full of warmth, and their resilience is nothing short of remarkable—it’s a strength that reflects the beauty and challenges of this desert life.
Hanging Out In Lake Powell
Besides going out on boats, I’ve enjoyed shooting guns out here. Shooting outdoors is far more exhilarating than indoors—the air, the sound, the dirt—it feels like a scene from a western movie. I am grateful to have learned from friends who respect the power and responsibility that come with handling firearms. Their attitude towards safety and protection has been invaluable. I couldn’t have asked for better instructors and friends.
Of course, I’ve also indulged in some country-fried chicken at Ranch House Grille. Along with learning about guns, I’ve gained an appreciation for knives—their care and craftsmanship.
The Dogs and the Desert
Before coming to Page, I was used to seeing dogs leashed in the city. Here, they run free and embrace their true wild selves. They dash and roam, embodying the spirit of the land. Seeing them here and in New Mexico, I thought, this is how they are meant to live. These beautiful animals are meant to live free, to be the rulers of their territory. One morning, I took on the responsibility of taking my friends’ dogs for a walk. We wandered around the area, enjoying the sunrise, the air, the sounds—the loud silence of the desert.
Riding Up Antelope Slot Canyon
I have to say, I am very thankful for life. In Baltimore, I live and work in the city at an internet company, which is great. But for 2-3 weeks of the year, I come here to work at the kayak office, doing photography and website development. They take me out on all these tours as I document them for their website—this is my job. We went out to Antelope Canyon with friends to scope out a new kayak package we wanted to sell on the website. It was a gentle ride down the canyon—the sounds, the laughter, the people—all very serene. Living the dream.
We visited Antelope Slot Canyon to scout the area for a new tour package. Unlike the company’s usual half-day, full-day, or multi-day trips (which are amazing!), this was a shorter, two-hour adventure featuring both kayaking and hiking. I’m grateful to call this my job—even while on vacation. Wow, life is grand.
