desert, desert and more desert

west texas was everything we dreamed it would be - miles and miles of sand, cacti, the occasional mound/hill and a small town every 30 miles. I have never seen "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" or "The Hills Have Eyes" but imagine they were shot here, one never knows what goes on out there. We did detour off of the Interstate when we got the chance though and went north to Guadelope Mtns National Park. It was 85 km off the Interstate, we met 2 cars along the way. It was well worth the trip. Mostly a hiking destination. On day we arrived did a 4 mile hike to "Devil's Hall" (see pic with both of us). Next morning got up and did a ~12 mile hike with 2,500 foot elevation gain (see Monique pic above). Anyone whos knows how scared she is of heights would have been entertained to watch her crawl to this spot. Hard to believe she is smiling! After the hike drove thru El Paso and on to Las Cruces, New Mexico where we spent the night. Toured a bit thru the city and managed to find a winery. Half decent stuff and picked up a few bottles. Now on to Arizona. Still more desert but some irrigation now so seeing some vineyards and orchards. Hope everyone had a great Halloween and thanks for the B'day party and Halloween pics that have been e-mailed!!