This week, one of the last things my Dad told us to do was to go drive through Palo Duro Canyon. As he told us this, I found an old picture of my Mom, Dad and I at this Canyon when I was about 6 years old. There is an outdoor amphitheater there that showcases awesome plays throughout the summer. I cannot remember for the life of me actually seeing one, but I guess I have. I hope one day I will be able to come back and take the kids. But for today, we did the drive through and checked out the main sites.
My Dad told me that this is where the Texas Rangers trapped many of the Southern Plains Indians during the battle of Palo Duro Canyon in the Red River War. They then killed 1,000 wild horses (most of which belonged to the Indians). Which, led to the end of that war of Indians against the 4th Calvary Rangers. That it was one of the big reasons that there were no Indian Reservations in Texas.
When we went, surprise surprise my dad was right. (although it didn't say anything about why there were no Indian reservations in Texas) He always had a knack for history and loved to tell a good story. If you ever needed to know something, especially about History or Geography he was the one to go to. He read so many books and was able to remember phrases and plots from books he read 50 years ago, right up until the day before he passed away.
I can only hope that I will remember half of the stories my Dad told me. I sure do miss him. But, I know that on Thursday that beautiful sky and perfect day was for us, from him.
Here are the pictures.
I am so glad that my Dad was true and loyal to his roots here in Texas. He raised me in Las Vegas however each summer sent me to Hereford, TX (beef capital of the world) so that I would have/know some of my Texas roots and culture. I experienced farmlife, driving tractors, running through cornfields and made memories with my cousins I will remember forever. I love this state of Texas and I am so thankful that my Dad raised me to know what family really looks like. I have been blessed with so much care since I have been here and since my Dads passing that it's hard to think about the fact that I may not be back for a while. I sure hope when we are done with the Marines we can lay down some roots here in Texas.
But for now, I am glad to call Texas my home away from home.
Such a sweet tribute to him. This looks so pretty.
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