Chile Ristras in Old Mesilla, New Mexico

Even in January, the ristras are still beautiful. There are numerous long ristras hanging from the lamp-posts in Old Mesilla, much to the delight of locals and tourists alike.

 

Snow on the Organ Mountains January 26, 2021

Time has gotten away from us, so there has been quite a gap in posting. The holidays in Las Cruces, even during COVID times, are full and busy and wonderful.

But now we are in full winter. Here, that doesn't mean the bleak misery of many other climates, or the soggy drab days of the Gulf Coast. It means crisp days and a snowfall now and then, followed by sun and gorgeous skies.

The mountains are the backdrop for Las Cruces, of course. We all look at them and love them every single day. And when they are frosted with snow, they are even more stunning than usual. 

These photos were taken at Dripping Springs Recreational Area, 7.5 miles from downtown. Very popular, very lovely area with a lot of history.

Fun Despite COVID

Well, the governor has locked down the state again, which is very sad, I feel. But there is still some spirit and levity to be found.

This is a funny little billboard on Highway 28, which runs through the gorgeous Stahmann Farms pecan groves I've shown and mentioned before. I love the little pecan mascot!

Come visit or retire to Las Cruces and get in on the fun!

Gorgeous Fall Color in Las Cruces

The wonderful changing of the leaves continues, with this flame-leaf example on the NMSU campus.

Retire in Las Cruces for a true four-season climate! Yes, the summers are blazing hot and long, but we also have the other three seasons well-represented. It's a mild climate, overall. The low humidity and the plentiful sunshine helps many people's arthritis, and it certainly helps keep "SAD," Seasonal Affective Disorder, at bay, speaking from personal experience.

Join the other retirees in Las Cruces and experience four wonderful seasons!

We have several large and beautiful Catholic Churches in town, and a Basilica, as well, in the old village of Mesilla nestled against Las Cruces (The Basilica of San Albino on the square in Mesilla). I think the prettiest, after San Albino, is the Immaculate Heart of Mary. 

At night, the windows are especially lovely, glowing out into the night. 

No matter your religion or lack of it, you will feel at home in Las Cruces!

Beautiful Salopek Farms in the Mesilla Valley

The two major pecan growers in the west are Stahmann Farms and Salopek Farms, two fine old families of great important to our economy and our community. It's always wonderful to drive through their groves, but especially so during autumn.

These photos are from Salopek Drive. It's a calm, windy road that spans between Highway 28 and Highway 85. In town, Highway 28 is known as Avenida de Mesilla and is the main road of Old Mesilla. Highway 85 is Main Street.

There's always a beautiful drive nearby when you retire to Las Cruces!

"Desert Rose"

In New Mexico, the color "Desert Rose" is a strong, vivid pink-orange. Many homes and businesses sport this color, and it's quite beloved, especially when paired with a bright turquoise.

The trees of NMSU have decided to get in on celebrating this hue! Here and there on campus, the ash trees have turned a neon version of Desert Rose. It's beautiful, especially to desert dwellers. Out here, we don't have much in the way of trees, except in yards, parks, and the campus. There are no "woods" such as in some regions. So, we treasure our rare trees!