“…and if I ain’t happy here, then I ain’t happy nowhere
New Mexico rain, when my mind starts to roam.”
-Micheal Hearn, Taos cowboy singer
Summer …in New Mexico?
Yup, we love it. For the last 3 years, we return here each August, for a “someplace-else residence.” The weather is comfortable with temps usually low 80’s. Often an afternoon thundershower cools and refreshes, for a dramatic 30 minutes.
This is high desert – altitude 7200 ft. – bright sun with clear, clean breezes.
What is there to do in New Mexico?
Our friend says Santa Fe is “55 square miles of altered space surrounded by reality”. Great food – southwestern and international, a center for arts, hiking in dramatic settings, horseback riding, biking, lovely architecture, spas, open-air opera, home-grown music at historic Bandstand in town center, day trips to surrounding towns and reservations, fascinating people, relaxing in an “other worldly” environment.
All this is magnified with the pleasure of sharing a week-end with Rob and Kelly (bro & sis-in-law) and reunions with old friends.
Where did ya’ stay?
We rent a comfy guest house in Tesuque Village hills, about 10 minutes from town center. We are minutes from Santa Fe Opera’s cantilevered pavilion. The main house on our property is owned by a prominent gallery owner, Bill Siegal. who specializes in rare pre-Colombian art and textiles. He also advises on the best restaurants and happenings around town! We are able to wander out our always-unlocked door and explore the arroyos and shaded lanes around the Tesuque reservation.
You mentioned Opera and music…
Santa Fe Opera is world-renowned as a remarkable venue favored by established divas and emerging artists. The summer program is a mix of classics and new, often experimental offerings. The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, a world premiere, drew controversial comments and twitters. We also see Donizetti’s pleasing Lucia Di Lammermoor and, “since we have a free evening,” enjoy Alcina, by Handel, produced with imaginative staging.
The summer Bandstand in town Plaza is a rich amalgam of southwest-flavored Americana. Most summer evenings, under approaching darkness, locals and tourists gather to dance, listen, and in some cases, just “groove.” The considerable talent: folk, Spanish, Native American, country & western, dance, drumming circles, Tex-Mex, and rock is drawn from across the region.
We thrill and are truely touched by the unrestrained joy and intimacy of people at the gatherings: unrepentant hippies, ranchers, cowgirls, Native Americans, Texas bling tourists, gender-benders, aging vets, kids trance dancin’.
Musically, several acts tore it up. Austin legend Dale Watson and his Lonestars are the real rhinestone deal. David Berkeley, thoughtful singer-songwriter, displayed star quality waiting to break-out. Chris Arellano and his trio revealed the heart of Nortena music of Colorado/New Mexico. Detroit Lightening recreated the seminal vibe of the Grateful Dead for 90 minutes of acid-tinged bliss!
…and your daily outdoor activities?
Each day we return to, or discover, new gems among the countless hiking trails that define the region. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, 40 miles from Santa Fe, astounds with “layers of volcanic rock and ash deposited by pyroclastic flow.” Rusty arroyos on the Tesuque reservation, streams, waterfalls, and sweeping vistas along Santa Fe National Forest, are accessible within minutes to transport us to majestic tranquility.
One special outing was riding horses at Ghost Ranch in Rio Arriba, among the geography that inspired many of Georgia O’Keefe’s paintings. My trustworthy steed, Arthur, provided a sound transport, and knew the way home for an extra ration of alfalfa!
What are the art galleries like?
Santa Fe and surrounding communities, Taos, Galisteo, Truchas, are home to hundreds of artists who are represented in scores of quality galleries. Canyon Road is a charming walk that features an array of fine art – everything from “coyotes howling at the moon” and museum-quality native crafts, to stunning abstractions from international painters and sculptors. We have several pieces in our collection from these sources. NuArt and Evoke galleries are particular favorites.
Did you have time to eat?
Well, …we made time. The reach and diversity of food we enjoy is impressive:
- Cafe Pasqual’s – pioneering Southwestern and global ethnic food from southern latitudes
- Sazon – new 4-star Mexican restaurant with exquisite moles, stunning art, and extensive tequila/mescal bar.
- Paper Dosa – spicy, authentic South (Asian) Indian
- Tune-up Café – homey local favorite featuring Salvadorian accents.
- Plaza Café – classic diner serving comfort food with regional flavors. Honest cup of “joe”.
- Jamba Café – funky and tasty African and Jamaican dishes.
- Radish and Rye – elegant “farm to fork” food amid stylish art and garden setting.
- Vinaigrette – insanely fresh and imaginative salads; ridiculous carrot cake.
- Tesuque Village Market – our local hangout for coffee, cinnamon buns, and gossip.
- Best dinner of all was lamb tagine, home-garden-grown salad, and rainbow sunset at the home of friends, Heidi and Zev Guber.
Did you nurture your spirit?
Soakings at Sunrise Springs Spa; metaphysical conversations in a yogic study circle with local seekers; daily gratitude for simply being alive in the “Land of Enchantment”.
…”if I ain’t happy here, I ain’t happy nowhere…”
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