White Dove of the Desert (Benson, AZ)

We spent one fine day driving south of Tucson on Hwy. 19.

I have been wanting to see the "White Dove of the Desert" - the Mission San Xavier del Bac.

A National Historic Landmark founded in 1692 by Father Eusebio Kino.  The Catholic church we visit today was finished in 1797.  I can see this place has been lovingly maintained.

I found this door handle on the outside was made into a snake very interesting.  The handle inside this door was even more interesting with a snake and a mouse.  I tried to get a photo, but it was too dark.

The church still holds mass and ministers to the local parishioners.  I love the scalloped backings on the pews/benches.  They show wear from years of people's hands sliding across them.

I love the shape and murals of this ceiling.

The building is the oldest intact European structure in Arizona.

Inside we can view the original statuary and mural paintings.  Absolutely gorgeous work  There's so much detail it would take me several days just to view all the artwork.

Outside the church, there were a few vendors selling food.  It has been a long time since we have had a good Indian Taco.

This is just as good as it looks with fresh veggies, green chili and beans....yum!  The bread was crispy but not filled with oil.

There were several friendly dogs wandering around the area.  This one was taking a moment to rest before he started begging again.

 

Dan had quite a few friends while eating his taco.  You should have seen the birds that were lined up on the seat near him.  "Come on, Mister!  Throw us some bread!"

We also had several of these little gopher? ground dog? watching us.  This one stood in the same spot the whole time we were eating.  I don't think he was begging....just keeping his eye on us.

On The Cutting Board

With more bad weather, I got started on three quilt bindings.  Oh, the bottom purple one is for my granddaughter's quilt!  I am finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  I have one and a half borders left to quilt.  Doing freestyle design - should I put a flower here or a leaf? - has been a lot more fun that the straight line quilting.

I also quilted the two small quilts on my machine.  I just need to add the binding and they will be done! 

Well, I hear the projects calling my name.....

Happy Quilting!