Laura on Hopi reservation pottery

The American Southwest is one of my favorite places (I even wrote a book about it…), and I was thrilled to be able to spend some of the summer in Arizona this year. One of my dreams was to bring my children to the Navajo and Hopi reservations in northeastern Arizona and southern Utah.

Hopi pottery

Look at all the ancient pottery shards!

As Americans, I feel it’s important for all of us to understand how Native American peoples lived in the past (even in the relatively recent past), and also how they live today. We were humbled and privileged to be able to visit several homes and villages of these generous people, and to truly understand how they reconcile the past and present in their daily lives.

Hopi guide

Our Hopi guide interpreting the meaning of these incredible ancient symbols

If you haven’t visited the reservations, GO. It is a wonderful way to enjoy some of the most striking and beautiful landscapes of North America, and to come face-to-face with native artists preserving the traditions of their ancestors.

Laura Morelli -- Traditional Navajo hogan

Getting ready for bed inside a traditional Navajo hogan

Have you gone off the beaten path in the American Southwest? Drop a comment below. I love to hear your stories!

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