Albuquerque New Mexico

Friday, April 20th:
After pulling in to the RPI "Hidden Valley Resort" about 15 miles east of town, near Tijeras, on Thursday afternoon we decided to go see the Albuquerque "Old Town". This is a sight well worth your time if you are in the area. The buildings are all maintained in strict accordance with origional plans. It was laid out in the fashion of the time in a square surrounded by the church (on the right - isn't it gorgeous and still hold services), government administrative buildings, businesses, and residences. We had lunch in the "Church Street Cafe" and had a wonderful meal.



I could not do justice to the church interior with mear words, so am including a visual image for you to see. The church itself was small and narrow with wooden pews leading down a narrow isle. The whole experience was inspiring. Right after we entered the door opened again and about 30 young six and seven year old children, all dressed in Catholic school uniforms came in. They were perfectly mannered and respectful.

Saturday April 21st we drove up the "Turquoise Trail" (NM-14) about 30 miles to the towns of Madrid and Cerrillos. The road up the trail was through very stark, dramatic countryside. A new vista was unfolded over every hilltop and around each curve. Miles of ranch land, small scrub trees, and mountains rising up to touch the clouds.

Madrid was a small coal mining town that has been revived by an infusion of crafters and artisians up an down main street. We parked the truck and one end of town and walked through town. We took the dogs with us so Carolyn "had" to be the one to go into the shops while I stayed outside. We drove on to Cerrillos which was only about three miles further, but known for its Turquoise mines. The town itself was pretty empty and was almost a ghost town. At one time though it sported several hotel, many bars, and "bawdy houses". Very sad in many ways to see how far it had fallen.