LEAVING TEXAS Departing at 8:30 AM, we drove through winds coming across the plains through much of the western Texas panhandle. As we entered New Mexico, highway signs warned of strong crosswinds, however, we found the wind ebbed considerably. The drive was relatively long for us, but with the change in time from Central to Mountain, we pulled in about 3 PM.

SANTA FE The last half hour was spent in Sante Fe traffic that was rerouted because of street construction. Trailer Ranch RV Park is very nice, and definitely doesn’t cater to rednecks. However, we fooled ‘em and got the “honeymoon” site. After setting up, we had a quick sandwich and checked out their showers—very clean.

KAY’S BIRTHDAY AND HISTORIC SANTA FE Today is Kay’s birthday, meaning dinner in the old part of Santa Fe. City bus transportation had been recommended; we caught the next inbound to the Plaza. Many of the Indian vendors had left the Governor’s Palace and the others were preparing to leave for the evening. Mucho Gusto Restaurant had been recommended for dining and Kay chose it for her birthday celebration. Walking along the streets by old cathedrals brought thoughts of what Santa Fe must have been like during the days of the Santa Fe Trail, and Kit Carson’s time here. However, back to Mucho Gusto, we started with margaritas, and tortilla chips and salsa. Kay ordered a shrimp dinner and I had lamb, pork, and chicken soft tacos. The shrimp in Kay’s dinner were bathed in a much too overpowering lime and tequila sauce, but the tacos I had were good. Following dinner, we strolled through the markets near the courtyard,  where Kay received a handmade silver and onyx bracelet for her birthday. After a bus ride back to the RV park, we made phone calls, read and sent emails, and updated this journal.

SUNSET There was an incredible sunset with oranges, gold, salmon, blues, turquoise,and pinks. It filled the entire horizon and made swirls of color even in the eastern sky.