If Zion belongs to the Germans then Bryce is for the French. There is a hoodoo for each Frenchman in this part of the world. On the shuttle the other day, we met an Israeli family. ‘Where should we hike?’ They asked. We gave them a brief synopsis of the trails to which the charming mother replied, “I think we’ll sit on the bus.” We were hoping the other nationals did not overhear our conversation. The nice part of it was that as we left the bus, they shouted from the rear: ‘Good Shabbos’.
Talking of the French, we are now able to give you an understanding of this hoodoo business. Yesterday, we mentioned the two opinions on their formation. The minority view goes something like this: When the Gauls conquered America, a long time ago; they established footings in the west and also, in Quebec. The latter was just to annoy the English, we believe. The leader, Blad der Gaul, had a vision that a certain Mr. Smith would form a great nation in this part of the world. He was impressed with the premise that there would be a large female but only a small male population--‘more moms’ than dads. This appealed to his fascination with polygamy; so he decided to pursue his dream. He summoned his assistants, UT and AH and explained his idea.
UT and AH, after finally understanding the plan, called the natives to a meeting. For a franc a month plus a baguette a day, the locals agreed to a contract whereby they would beautify the state for the future generations and tourists. The Gallic artistic flare was foremost in his mind. Each person received a hammer and chisel, and set about carving shapes out of the rocks. The result: A large section of land is covered with hoodoos.
Blad der Gaul was impressed. He again summoned UT and AH but this time to congratulate them on a splendid effort. He named the state in their honor. The idea came to him when the two stood side by side, names stenciled on their chests, while accepting their certificates of merit. ‘Eureka,’ he shouted. No, that’s not right, he thought. After putting on his glasses :‘UTAH’, he exclaimed.
Of course, the other theory is that the cracks in the rocks fill with rain, freeze overnight, the ice expands which pressures the rocks to crack and over time, odd edges are formed. Who could believe such a theory?
The former idea is lagging somewhat in support with only one adherent. However, add another follower and it will amount to a growth rate of double (100%)—try beat that.
The Peek-a-boo hike was terrific with some very steep climbs, unique and extraordinary views but a little lonely without Jenni. By the way, the weather in Bryce is unstable with conditions changing rapidly. Fortunately, the temperature has been between 20-30 degrees less than Zion, some seventy miles away.
We notice that most visitors observe the canyon/amphitheatre from the road or rim. On the trails, and particularly from the ‘floor’, the perspective is quite different and at least equally stunning.
Cheers,
Jenni and Boo
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