January 6, 1912 - January 6, 2012 --- Happy 100th Birthday of American statehood!
In New Mexico, a century is a mere drop in the bucket; the state capitol, Santa Fe, was established by Spanish conquistadors over four hundred years ago in 1610. Pueblo people have inhabited New Mexico for over three thousand years; and the Clovis people who created advanced spear points lived in New Mexico over 13,500 years ago.
New Mexico is anchored in the past, yet reaching for the stars. The “Land of Enchantment” teems with colorful characters,
bold colors, iconic art, stunning architecture, incredible geology, abundant wildlife, spicy cuisine, great margaritas, worn out locales, and modern inventions. A winter visit provided plenty of sunshine with cool temperatures, intense shadows, no crowds, and time for
deep reflection. It’s a place where you can discover yourself.
This journey explored central and southeastern New Mexico, including: Albuquerque, Tent Rocks National Monument, Santa Fe,
the Turquoise Trail, Vaughn, Billy the Kid Country, the Roswell UFO, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, White Sands National Monument, Tularosa, Lincoln, Carrizozo, an off-the-map ghost town, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, the Very Large Array,
Jemez Red Rocks Mountain Byway, and Los Alamos.