What can I say about Gallup…give me a minute.
Well, it is certainly not the worst place we have ever lived. Scenery wise, it has some very beautiful views. Family activity wise, it is rather lacking, but more so due to its isolation from other cities. I feel like we do the same things over and over again.
We do enjoy the aquatic center, though their strict 2-1 ratio means we are usually the only people there. While I understand their explanation (apparently cars would pull up and drop off loads of kids and then leave), this rule eliminates all but one of the families we know here. It is almost surreal to be alone in such a big place. There is also zero consistency among the staff, which is crazy because I think ten people work there. Sometimes we have to wear bracelets, sometimes we do not. Sometimes we are allowed to use our own soap, other times they insist we take one of their bars. Sometimes we can use the pool noodles, other times I am told they are just for the lap swimmers.
The children’s library also has several programs throughout the week, but Emrys and Easton only enjoy the Thursday afternoon craft and the occasional Saturday party. The library has a huge collection of books and even has a large DVD collection ($1 for a week!) and we like having new material for bed time. My only issue is the parking lot next door. There is a very small playground and some benches, and while the police do a great job of patrolling this area I have encountered several intoxicated people trying to sell me various trinkets and goods. Unfortunately this is all too common here.
Our other weekly outing is to one of the city parks. We really enjoy Mossman park, which is very small, but has both a big kid and little kid area in very close proximity to one another. There are a few benches and two covered tables which make taking snacks or lunch super easy. On the downside, it tends to be a bit dirty. There are lots of wild dogs in Gallup, and several of them seem to enjoy pooping at the park.
That is it, that is what we do here, well, those things and Emrys goes to an awesome preschool. It has gotten old fast and I am looking forward to our next destination and crossing my fingers that we do not come back. We have made some good friends, but none of them are here permanently. While I believe you get out what you put in, I find that most people here are not very friendly. People ignore me when I say “Hello” even though I am smiling and making eye contact. My pep and outgoingness is beginning to tap out.
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