Hubbell Trading Post

On our last trip to Arizona, we traveled through the east side of the Navajo Reservation.  I have wanted to visit the Hubbell Trading Post for years and finally had an opportunity, but just barely.  We arrived within 45 minutes of closing time.

We made our way inside to a trading post that was founded in 1876 by John Lorenzo Hubbell. 

These walls have been standing for over 110 years.

Some additions have been added over the years but this part is the oldest.

It is still an operating trading post but is also part of the National Park Service.

With the sun falling to the west, there was light streaming through the windows.

There was a bit of everything.

Yes, everything.

A painting of Hubbell.  He lived a very interesting life and died in 1930.

I found myself taking many pictures.  Different rooms highlighted different wares.

This stable/barn is attached on the south side.

A doorway big enough for a wagon.

The trading post is located near Ganado, Apache County, Arizona.  A visitor's center is located to the east of the trading post.  An active wash lies to the west of the buildings and garden and this constant source of water made this location possible.

The visitor's center has information and exhibits.

Upon leaving the center, I walked to the west side of the trading post.  This is where the Hubbell family lived in the early 1900's and tours are given but we had arrived too late to participate.  I would loved to go inside someday.

The gate into these private living quarters includes Hubbell's initials.

The soothing front porch.  Notice the newly planted garden through the screen.

The main entrance.

And a view of the west side of the building.  It is a large single story structure.

Hubbell built a guest house north of the house for company.

It is built in the shape of a Navajo hogan.

This was a fun and worthwhile stop.  I recommend it.

The Hubbell Trading Post is a few miles north of the Interstate 40.  The Petrified Forest National Park is a few miles south of the 40.  There were a few pieces of petrified wood on the north side of the trading post.  For those living in Arizona, both locations would make a great day trip.

Author signings

I enjoyed two author presentations and signings last month.  David Wiesner was the presenter at the Provo Book Festival.

I purchased his book, Mr. Wuffles, for my grandson's birthday.  I thought he would enjoy it as it had a cat and he has a cat.  There were also aliens and flying saucers.

This was a Caldecott Honor Book in 2014.  David Wiesner has received several Caldcott awards for his picture books which he illustrates as well as writes.  It was a wonderful evening.

Later in the month I traveled to the King's English in Salt Lake City to see Susan Branch in person.

She also writes and illustrates her own books but they are for adults and enjoyed by others who are mostly like me!  Did I mention that there were several quilters in line.  She started with illustrated cookbooks.  Her last three books have been her life story.  She is one of a kind!  I, of course, had her sign all three of her lastest books as well as the first cookbook I ever bought, Christmas from the Heart of the Home.  I loved that cookbook with its charming quotes, beautiful paintings, and excellent recipes.  It made my Christmas 25 years ago.  It is always fun to meet someone you have admired from afar.

It's all about the weather

I was able to attend my grandson's school play in May.  It was about the weather and cute as can be.

He was a storyteller.  That is him in the blue shirt.

Not only were all the parts well played but the songs and singing were incredible.  So much to memorize!

Great job!  And now you know all about the weather!