I always spent my vacations anywhere but the US, but this pandemic has constrained my explorations to these United States. While I’d still much prefer to spend my vacations elsewhere, I have learned that if you stay away from the uniquely American soullessness of suburban drab, the diversity and beauty of nature you could experience here is incredible. New Mexico, in particular, where we spent around three months, has stunning landscape like nothing I have experienced before: Northern New Mexico has high desert climate, cacti, piñon pines and never-ending vistas.
Additionally, Santa Fe, a city of less than 100,000 people and 37 sq mi land area, with a population density of 1,621.25/sq mi – New York City has a population density of 27,755.25/sq mi – seems incredibly progressive. New York City has pretty good mask compliance compared to largely retrograde parts of the country like Wyoming or South Dakota, but compliance with the governor’s orders in Santa Fe puts even NYC to shame!
Max
Max
Pecos Wilderness, Santa Fe National Forest
There were so many birds outside our home in Los Cerrillos: American Robins (always came in groups), House Finches, Lesser Goldfinch, and… even a Road Runner who would visit every now and then!
Max
Climbing in Diablo Canyon
Climbing in Diablo Canyon was fantastic! 🧗🏽
Tori and Josh
Tori is an amazing climber, loves a challenge, and is stubborn: a recipe for late-evening climbing. We were cold, but I bet Tori was colder – those rocks can be very chilly.
It’s almost always bright and sunny in Santa Fe, so these clouds were a welcome break from the monotony
We discovered these street tacos almost too late during our stay, but fear not, we made good of our discovery! Street tacos from El Chile Toreado: Carne Asada, Carnitas, El Pastor
El Chile Toreado in Santa Fe
Morning light in Santa Fe
The dirt road approach to our home in Los Cerrillos, New Mexico
The neighbor’s shepherds roamed freely around these parts, and would often come visit our home. They don’t seem to have names, but Tori and Josh named them Chloe and Max, so that’s who they are for us. They’re both extremely friendly, and Chloe in particular loves people (and attention!) Spending time with them was always a highlight of my day, more so when they’d come run with me!
Climbing near freeways isn’t all that fun
Some people like to burn old cars and then shoot at them 🤷🏽♂️
Sunset at our home in Los Cerrillos, New Mexico
Tori’s dog Eddie eventually kind of warmed up to me. I feel special!
