On our way to Santa Fe!

May 3rd through 5th, 2015 We headed out from Cimarron Canyon with a good cell signal for well over an hour. I was able to listen in to my morning meeting at my local Kingdom Hall. It is always lovely to see scenic views and listen to inspiring words.

We began by heading west through Eagles Nest with Wheeler Peak out in the distance. At 13,161 feet above sea level it is the highest peak in NM. We meandered along the Rio Grande and stopped at the visitors center to check out the exhibits. As we continued on our way we spotted several rafting and kayaking excursions in the cold/fast flowing river below us. It was very scenic driving. We made our way on Route 64 through Taos to Espanola and picked up Route 84 South to Santa Fe. We found the mountain road to Hyde Memorial SP and drive the 9 miles to our campsite. No reservations were needed at this time of year. About 40 minutes later (after dropping our truck camper and setting up our electric) we were heading back down the mountain and regained our cell signal to contact Nancy Dean Kreger and her husband Bob. They were awaiting us at the Cowgirl Cafe where a band played an incredible array of Bob Dylan songs. Nancy is good friends with 2 of the musicians. We enjoyed a local heffenwizen and some very tasty appetizers. The mutton slider was exceptional and sweet potato fries with chives and cashews and a tangy dipping sauce satisfied my hunger.

Next Bob and Nancy gave us a walking tour of the downtown area. The renowned plaza, the layout of shops and a good parking garage to use as a base. We went on up to the Bell Tower of La Fonda, a beautiful hotel. From the 5th floor we had an overview of the state capital and entire surrounding areas. We sat under cover and missed another quick shower watching the suns rays streaming through more approaching dark clouds in the distance. We filled up on drinking water to replenish our reserves. This is a dry climate as a rule and Nancy was grateful for the several days of showers we brought with us. We walked a few more blocks and got to see "Seret and Sons" an import/exporter where Nancy got her first job when she arrived here in 1991. The showers began again so we went our separate ways and returned to the campsite for the night. What a chilly night. Upper 30's and it snowed about 1000 feet elevation or 2 miles beyond our campsite.

The next morning we headed back downtown and checked out the Native Indian dealers selling their wares in the Plaza. Bob and I each found something we liked. We explored a few more shops then Nancy met us and took us to Tomasita's for delicious local southwestern fare. After filling our stomachs we drove up Canyon Rd and walked as much as the off and on showers would allow us. One artist's showroom in particular is showing several different artist's works, one of whom is mentoring Nancy and her watercolor painting. Nancy has some lovely works, most recently done in Tuscany as well as locally.

At the top of the road there is a pull off at the Audubon Society preservation lands with some out buildings, a gift shop and trails. From there we were off to Whole Foods for supplies and then onto Nancy and Bob's home. Nancy showed us all the lovely watercolors she has been working on. She has another upcoming showing soon. In addition to painting she has other art projects she has done including several "doll" like figures that are quite unique. Her two cats Max Diego and Maxine showed us through the rooms too. Despite another shower her husband grilled us some delicious salmon, that and steamed broccoli balanced out a nutritious supper. We managed to find our way back to the campsite by 10 pm or so and settled in for the night.

CINCO DE MAYO On the morning of the 5th, we had our breakfast then headed up the mountain towards the ski area. Nancy had mentioned a couple of overlooks that way that would be quite rewarding. As we passed the fresh light snow-line there was a fog that slowly gave way. I did get some interesting photos of the aspens beginning to bud out and some unique trees as well as a babbling brook. We then headed back down the mountain the 13 or so miles to downtown Santa Fe. Parking in that convenient garage we were able to set out on foot once again. We lunched at at little gourmet pizza and brew pub that Bob had suggested and had some delicious warming soups. Their minestrone was the best Bob had ever tasted. We walked off our lunch once more in and out of the many shops and showrooms. One clothier in particular (sorry it's name eludes me) supplied the star and crew of the Netflix show "Longmire". They specialize in suedes, sheepskins and leathers. One jacket Bob liked was well over $1000 and a nice cowboy had across the street ($500) would have gone well with it. "He sure has good taste!" Incredible art is also exhibited in many shops downtown as well as on Canyon Rd. There is lots of beautiful architecture to see in churches, basilicas, and museums. I favored checking out the jewelry! Ortega's on the Plaza has the largest selections and has been at this location for several decades. At about 5:30 pm we met up briefly with Nancy and Bob Kreger as they parked in the same garage. They had tickets to hear Robert Redford and the Mayor at the "Lensic" just across the street. It would be an open discussion on arts, environmental issues.

We were quite tired and headed back to re-attach our camper, just before hail and another shower fell upon us. Soup supper to warm us for another chilly night. Starting these trips early we beat the crowds but catch some cool temperatures especially at higher elevations.