We try to make it out to New Mexico every Fall. It is a long trip from Maryland over 2,000 miles but we just take our time and enjoy the ride. Our first stop is in Wyetheville, VA. We used to stay in the parking lot at Walmart but now there are signs posted everywhere overnight parking not allowed. That’s too bad. Off to Cracker Barrell. Our old standby. We always patronize their establishment having at least one meal.

The next “boondocking” spot is the Cherokee Casino. It’s great because they even provide free water and electric hookup. I am not a gambler so I don’t go inside. If they had a decent meal I would purchase a dinner. Sadly, this Casino does not offer much in the way of food. You can get a free coffee or coke though.

Anxious to get to New Mexico we finnally arrive at the Coronado Campground in Bernallilo. To look at this little campground from the highway it is hard to see what the appeal is but upon entering the space the prime spots are along the hillside overlooking the magnificent Sandia Mountains. Our favorite spot is #6. The only downfall is their restroom/showers that are in a sad state. A little tlc would be so helpful.

Next on our itinerary is Abiquii Lake Campground. It is really a beautiful place to camp. Everything about this campground is pleasant and conducive to quiet mountain hiking and swimming and boating if you desire. I am content just to watch the beautiful sunsets, hike a little and of course paint.

We finally arrive at Ghost Ranch one of my absolute favorite places to camp. If you have never been there you must visit. https://www.ghostranch.org/. It is easy to understand why Georgia O’Keefe loved it so much. After years of teaching art to preschoolers, after school programs, Adult Ed, a little adjunct teaching at various colleges, every summer at Common Ground on the Hill, monitoring life and portrait groups and my very fun plein air workshops all over the country and around the world. I am retired from teaching now, but I put together a “reunion” of past workshop participants and new folks who would like to experience the beautiful “Land of Enchantment”, at Ghost Ranch in Abiquii, New Mexico. We will spend four days enjoying the gorgeous scenery, painting and photographing. Hiking, horseback riding, kayaking are also available. A trip to see Plaza Blanca (The White Place, where Georgia O’Keefe loved working) Also, check out all the many galleries and museums in beautiful Santa Fe where we will stay at the Sage Hotel in Santa Fe on our last night. Please contact me if you are interested in coming. E-mail: jeaneansongcomartin6@gmail for more information. The dates are September 1-5th, 2025. There is no instruction but lots of opportunity to share our work and catch up on each other’s lives. It has been a long time since I have seen some of you and I am looking forward to our “reunion” and also meeting some new folks!

Here are some pictures and a couple of pieces from the trip. Still working on them.

Adios amigos! Hope you are well and keep painting!