My first day took me from Prescott, Arizona to Pojoaque, New Mexico. I stayed in a guest house on a property near Santa Fe. Stops for fuel were brisk and completed on one's own. New Mexico had mandated wearing face masks in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. Customers were quick to buy what they needed and retreat to their cars. There was very little interaction. That was a stark difference from the travel I am used to and I missed the exchange of energy. Little did I know that right around the corner there would be opportunity to visit with a local resident.
At the entrace to my AirBnb near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
During my second day I had ample time to explore the area before meeting family in the afternoon. A road trip several years ago brought me to this same area. I decided to explore Chimayo again. Santuario de Chimayo in this small town is not only beautiful but has historical signifagance.
Learn more; https://www.holychimayo.us/welcome
A little extra time to spare between Chimayo and when I would meet my family near Dixon. Fortunately I found a small vineyard with a lovely shaded seating area with physical distancing. If all those benefits were not enough I had the opportunity to have lively conversation with a local resident. We spoke about environment, history, local gossip, and even caves carved by an artist. My family arrived and I discovered they had read all about these caves. (Artist Ra Paulette) Our new friend offered to take us on a tour of one of the caves. His partner joined us and he gave my son homemade gazpacho. He was on his way to a market which was setting up in the parking lot. What a great local experience! Unfortunately our cave tour never happened - next time!
The best part of my road trip. Visiting with my son and daughter-in-law!
Another visitor at the vineyard!
We would be spending the night in a Tiny House on the banks of the Rio Grande. Star gazing that evening was fantastic. I have never seen a sky so full of stars. It was incredible. ⭐✴✩
The Tiny House
Kitchen and one of the two sleeping lofts in the Tiny House.
Gifts for the birthday girl.
When our host provided a tour of the Tiny House property he pointed out this large willow tree. He proudly stated that it has become known as Grandmother Willow on the river and is considered a place of healing. The peace and tranquility in the expansive environment was indeed healing.
A short road trip, a brief visit but it boosted spirit and energy. A couple of hikes and a stop in Pilar, New Mexico ended a fabulous family reunion.
"All journeys have destinations of which the traveler is unaware."
~ Martin Buber
