April Trip to Bosque del Apache

Last weekend for part of Layton's spring break we drove south to do a little climbing (about 5 minutes worth) and visit NM's famed Bosque del Apache which is about 20 miles south of Socorro to watch some wildlife. The weather was not super cooperative but we went anyway and a great time.

Rain, sleet and snow in the backyard before driving south.

We arrived at Socorro's box canyon in time for gusts up to 50 mph and hailstorm. It was still fun to hike around and  attempt a few problems on the streambed traverse.

Pokey bouldering in the streambed

We arrived with sunny skies...

Birds of a feather

Whooping Cranes are the star attraction

"What's that!"

Clearing skies after the spring hailstorm

Going crazy after being cooped up in the car most of the day we started jogging the loop road

Absolutely beautiful. We saw about 25 species of birds including about 10 that were new for me.

After fun day of birding we stayed the night in ABQ and went to the aquarium/botanic garden the next day before heading back home.

The Japanese garden at the ABQ botanic garden.

'New' Mexico

The title of this post reflects how I feel about our relocation back to the Land of Enchantment.  We have been here for almost four months and New Mexico is so different that I feel I moved to 'New' Mexico.  I am including pics and commentary from the last three months as we have begun to settle into our new life...

Probably one of the most striking nuances to New Mexico is the weather and its ability to change dramatically by elevation and by hour.  One day it is clear and you can see Santa Fe Baldy and Truchas Peaks and the next, we are on the ski hill playing in the snow (though the skies were clear that day).

We've tried to engross ourselves in New Mexico activities - chile eating, skiing, hiking, climbing, chile eating and most important, good friends and family.

Layton had his first day skiing and he did great!!  He was lucky and had a one-on-one lesson because he was the only kid in ski school that day.  All that attention he received went a long way - he was exhausted after and ready to do it again.

We had a LOVEly Valentine's day with treats, cards and a scary valentine mailbox Layton took to school.  Portia also felt the love and showed Luke how much by sitting on a beloved shirt.

  

Once it started warming up, we headed to Bandelier National Monument for some good fun in the sun!  It was great to be with the kids on their first-time experience of the Park.  We have gone back a few times before the crowds (and the heat) set in and we even took our Bapi.

Easter was early this year so we revved up for the Bunny by making cookies.....

Dyeing Easter Eggs with Grandma.....

Playing with our Easter Baskets and seeing what the Bunny left.....

Wearing our Easter Best and egg hunting...

And since we have been 'home', we have seen great friends we haven't seen in a long time...

Laeser Institute, Burns Family Circus and Torres Clan!
From left to right:  Kestrel, Kayla, Mollie, Zoe with Josh, Sonya, Layton and Ramon

Ann, Me, Diana and silly Layton

Luke (with Pokey), Layton, Joshy, Carlo, Ramon, Jean and Cam

So, things aren't new at all....It feels good to be home and we are adjusting well.  Layton LOVES school and that makes us a happier family for sure!

Probably the most important thing that has happened since coming home, from a mommy's perspective, is that my baby boy is growing up!  He has lost more teeth, become more independent and sure of himself and has found the love of the desert like his dad.  He is also the best big brother I know.  I understand growing up is a part of life, but it sure is crazy to watch it happen right in front of me.  I love my boy and my bird!!  I am so happy I got to slow things down and enjoy life!