The "Lure and Lore of Lost Treasure" will explore stories of treasure troves lost to time and the mysteries which surround them. These stories will encompass geography and history as well. Together with our adventurers, we will explore legends passed down through time. In this story book I am going to focus on treasures reported to be in America. The sites our stories will visit are Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and of course Oklahoma.
   I chose this topic because it fits in well with my interest in Archeology as well as my interest in  folklore and mythology. If I had the time and money I would love to search for these reported riches. I think the allure and romance of being the one to unravel a mystery is something which calls to all of us in some way. Finding actual riches would be fantastic but just the thrill of physically exploring these places would give one an appreciation of history, the beauty of the land and the sense of being on a great adventure!
   These stories will whisk us away to times in the past and to locales exotic yet familiar. These stories are populated by outlaws and miners, princesses and Indians, and Spaniards and spirits. They will take us deep below the earth into dark caves and spiraling mines and maybe even a ghost town. These stories are allegedly based on true occurrences, but remember: it is probably a good idea to retain a healthy dose of skepticism. That being said, you also need to allow yourself to dream big. Believe that treasure is out there! If you do go looking, persistence is the key. Only the extremely lucky ever find something the first time out.        
   If these intriguing stories inspire you  to explore this exciting hobby, make sure you do so safely. You need permission to go on to private land and sometimes a permit. Never go out exploring alone and it is probably wise to leave a travel plan with someone you trust. That way if you turn up missing, the people looking for you will have some idea where to start! Make sure you take the supplies, equipment and provisions you need with you to insure a safe exploration lest you end up contributing a chapter in a lost treasure's legend. You will want to wear proper shoes and protective gear. Items you should bring with you include: plenty of water,   lighting, suntan lotion, a first aid kit and a compass. You never know what you may encounter while you are exploring. Beware of dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion. They can all be dangerous. Remember to watch out for snakes and other wildlife and stay alert. Watch out! Poison ivy and other itchy plants share the wild too! There can also be unstable rocks, drop offs or sudden storms. Keep your wits and practice safety. While looking for treasure can be thrilling, it also holds an element of danger. Leave the land as beautiful as you found it so that it can be enjoyed by others in the future. Last but not least: have fun!

Famous Quotes about treasure to ponder:

Heroes take journeys, confront dragons, and discover the treasure of their true selves.
Carol Pearson

A box without hinges, key, or lid, yet golden treasure inside is hid.
J. R. R. Tolkien

There comes a time in every rightly constructed boy's life when he has a raging desire to go somewhere and dig for hidden treasure.
Henry A. Kissinger

There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates' loot on Treasure Island and at the bottom of the Spanish Main... and best of all, you can enjoy these riches every day of your life.
Walt Disney

   And now we are about to embark on our journey....

image  found at : The Sandman
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