July

This is the time of year when the summer is full-on, The 4th of July is eagerly anticipated, people are in the middle of vacations, projects at home, sports activities, camping, fishing, relaxing on the porch, planning what to grill on the barbecue, baseball, our independence, red, white and blue and fireworks, although this year for obvious reasons, the colorful but explosive pyrotechnics of any manner, were strongly discouraged, in fact strictly prohibited in most areas around the region. 

Spring and Summer 2011 in the Southwest, so far has been hot as the dry desert and forest becomes fuel for the tiniest spark. Tens of thousands of acres-scorched, animals, homes, cabins and other dwellings up in unforgiving flames, wild, rampant, defying those who attempt to stop it.

From the threat to Los Alamos National Laboratory and the entire town needing to evacuate to countless  life threatening emergencies as hundreds of fire crews are dispatched to stand-up to the monstrous inferno.

Where as rain would be a tremendous help, in contrast the impending rainy season also brings with it, thunder and lighting storms which are accompanied by more fire danger and imminent floods. The line between thriving forests/safe habitats and man made and natural disasters is delicate with a vulnerability that hangs on the balance making it a must to respect and take care of our environment and natural resources.

Season's Greetings!

The four season's in New Mexico are well defined; Spring time means blooming plants, trees, allergies,, graduations, weddings, new beginnings and change. From spring training to full-on baseball season, the Summer warms-up and temperatures soar, swimming pools on the ready for the splishing and splashing. Refrigerated air, air conditioners, fans and the shade are highly revered. The 4th of July is accompanied by the sound of popping, whistling, bursting fireworks. People tend to get nostalgic and be drawn to the great outdoors, more inclined to catch-up with projects around the house.

Autumn in New Mexico is a feast for the senses, trees change green, to gold, brown, rust, to spectacular reds and oranges, the air is crisp and unsettling. Fall is eager for the first day of school, harvest time is good, the smell of chile roasting over an open flame at the market is intoxicating. Big, colorful, exciting balloons, the amazing aeronautics involved with sailing through the desert air like grand toys while the forces of mother nature are always in control. Balloonists hope the southwestern skies embrace them gently.  Native American Feast Day's are observed on reservations, pueblos and villages, with celebrations that include food, singers and tiny dancers, to seasoned elders marching along in perfect order. Bold colors and fine leathers blend handsomely with the feathers and beads that adorn the dancers. The circle widens as a body of people move together, side by side, according to custom, heritage and the tradition of generations. The movement is strong, steady, smooth, in unison as the drum beats a familiar rhythm, strong and solemnly.     Winter walks in with purpose and sometimes lingers around like a prairie dog on a golf course, not at all concerned it might well be overstaying it's welcome. A familiar saying around here goes; "Wait five minutes, the weather will change". Especially in the winter when it can be bone chilling in the morning and t-shirt and shorts weather in the afternoon and depending on the elevation and specific area you are in, one can ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon.

Central New Mexico does not receive a lot of precipitation as it nestles in a pouch covered by an invisible bubble that prevents more than a couple of weeks worth of snow to fall for the entire year. It is up north in the higher elevations that the snow can be relentless. Generally our weather is relatively fair compared to the harsh conditions of other parts of the country and world.

If you are up for some world class smoother-than-smooth-jazz. Here is 5:27 minutes worth of Maysa Leak, masterfully handling with care.. Her voice slides and glides across the song, perfectly paired with the music:  What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life