I actually arrived home more than 24 hours ago, but was so exhausted from traveling (and so sleep-deprived) that I wasn’t prepared to post anything yet on Mastodon. Anyway, I caught up on my rest, took care of a mountain of laundry (after wearing the same clothes multiple times on the trip), went shopping to replenish the pantry and refrigerator, and now I’m ready to say a few words…
My journey was to Mexico, specifically to Mazatlán, in order to witness the recent total solar eclipse. I’d never seen one before in my life and figured this might be my last chance. I also chose to take a train trip through Mexico’s extraordinary las Barrancas del Cobre — aka Copper Canyon — with multiple overnight stops and hikes along the way.
Although I’ll admit to feeling some guilt about commercial air travel, given the obvious conflict with my passionate stance in favor of the climate and environment, I consoled myself with the knowledge that this was only the second time in six years I have flown anywhere. And while I was in Mexico, I deliberately took buses or trains whenever possible, avoiding extra flights.
Anyway, it was a wonderful trip.
The eclipse itself was nearly indescribable, since it is like nothing evolution has prepared us to see. I mean, the experience is completely outside the range of normal human expectations. To look up at the sky in midday and see the sun obliterated, blacked out by a disc in front of it… stunning. Shocking. Breathtaking. Spectacular. Unforgettable.
And Copper Canyon is also a wonder, a marvel. Of course in good conscience I can’t recommend leisure travel, but if you ever have legitimate reasons to be in Mexico and can fit that in as a side tour, it’s absolutely worth the time and the cost.
I’ll have much more to say on my usual topics over the next few days and weeks. Still catching up on everything that’s been going on in the world after being mostly out of touch for the last little while. That was quite a refreshing change, I must say. Soon, though, it’s back to work!
