"When I got to New Mexico that was mine. As soon as I saw it that was my country. I'd never seen anything like it before, but it fitted to me exactly. It's something that's in the air-it's different. The sky is different, the wind is different. I shouldn't say too much about it because other people may be interested and I don't want them interested." ~Georgia O'Keeffe, 1977
Santa Fe
The history, the food, the people! I cannot say enough just how enchanting this town was! One of our favorite things to do on our travels it to talk to the locals. Our shuttle bus driver was amazing, possessing a wealth of knowledge on the town and it's history. We always looked forward to a ride with him just to hear him speak. He spoke of the Rocky Mountains, the Civil War, and the beautiful summer days watching the cumulus clouds roll over the desert and leaving behind breathtaking sunsets to the west. We were completely enchanted! Get to Santa Fe quick and be prepared to answer the state question, "Red or green?"
Taos, The Rio Grande River, and the Low Road
There were many amazing moments from this trip, but the time we spent inside Taos Pueblo, the oldest continuously inhabited community in our country, was easily the best of them! We were not allowed to take photos that day, but we quickly snapped one at the entrance (first photo below). Inside the community, we walked around the sacred grounds that date back over a thousand years. We were in awe of the adobe homes and the way of life they offered, without modern electricity and running water. We were lucky enough to be there during one of their ceremonial dances, and although we were scheduled to depart an hour later to head back to Santa Fe, we stayed rooted for the whole performance. We stood among hundreds of Pueblo residents draped in wool blankets of all colors and patterns. The dancers were adorned in traditional attire decorated with feathers, beads, stones, and many other ornamental objects. It felt like we had stepped back in time. It was so beautiful and moving, I was brought to tears. It was such an honor to have been allowed to stand among them that day, we were so grateful and will cherish the experience forever!
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
I'll let the photos speak for themselves, but I'll quote Tony as ended our hike that day, "I can't believe it only cost $5 for all of that. We spend $30 or more at the movies and don't get that kind of gratification."
We booked this trip using points from our Southwest and Venture cards, and used our $300 gift card that we received for Christmas for food and drinks. The trip ended up costing minimal.
~ Stephanie
