MY favorite book of the year, so far

 

Going to Maine by Sally Chaffin Brooks

Book Review and details

I enjoyed it immensely and makes me want to retire and walk and also be a trail angel.

good week

IT was a good week and also a nice quiet break. I was able to do yoga, hike, visit friends, and explore.
Sunday I went to church
and then decided to head towards Jemez. I have been meaning to go there for awhile and I had the time. I wish I would gone sooner - I love it and it takes less than hour to get there.
First stop Perea nature-trail - From Bernalillo, travel about 20 miles north on US 550, cross the Rio Salado bridge and turn left (west) on the paved access road just before the village of San Ysidro. A brown state highway recreation sign is posted on US 550 at the turnoff.
It is a short hike but very sweet and well maintained.

I headed North and Hwy 4 - with no specific agenda I noticed a sign for 

Ponderosa Valley Vineyards. It is a gem. The owner Mary and I chatted for a bit and then I walked around the property. The vineyard was started by her and husband over 30 years ago. Her husband has passed but she still maintains the place. I am glad I stopped. We need more Mary's in this world. 

There are so many turnouts to stop walk, hike, and fish. I loved it. It was just what I needed.
I want to come back and stay at the Vista Linda Campground before the end of summer.
I also want to stay at the Canon Del Rio

I dangled my feet in the Jemez Soda Dam

I felt this was a  great reminder of my life at the moment. Just balancing around the current and close as possible to the nature.

Mary from the winery  recommended that I stop and have lunch at the Second Alarm Brewhouse.  Great choice a refreshing IPA and yummy green chili - perfect NM/Colorado food.

blodgett open space

Since I have been home I have been gravitating to Blodgett Peak Open Space. It is a great trail with great views. Close to work - Sometimes the parking is a little crazy but that is only because we have amazing weather that makes winter hiking perfect.

On Thursday I took this picture and it is very telling.  Sunshine, full of life, snow but if you look a little closer you will see the burn remnants on the trees from the Waldo Canyon fire 18 months ago. Hiking makes me grateful to live in Colorado. It is only a 3 mile trial and I can stretch it out to almost an hour with all of the side trails.

- Just wish it was a little longer.  Trails and Open Space link