onepinkfuzzy: New Mexico

I sit at the long log table, holding a cup of hot cocoa to warm my hands as the sun pours through the myriad of windows. I hear muffled yells of little boys chasing each other around the large yard outside and I smile. A rangy juniper tree is nestled in a corner, lit with multiple colors, its branches hanging low from the weight of numerous ornaments, but not low enough to reach out and grab your leg as you walk on by. The smell of freshly baked cornbread permeates the air. My legs are relaxed from multiple soaks in hot springs located just outside the front door of the large lodge; my mind is dancing on thoughts of the cold hike my five-year-old son and I took this morning, a cold hike through snow to cliff dwellings high above a creek. He braved icicles, below-freezing weather, a cough and carrying his own camelback (filled with water!) to reach the top. It snowed on us the day before. Snow! Big, wet flakes floating from the sky and melting the minute they touch the earth. I smile at the thought of Ash drawing pictures of everything awesome he sees - a green notebook full of a little boy's most precious thoughts - a rendering of flower art, the hot springs, the wood fire, the lodge. I was nervous about this vacation; nervous that a single mom of a crazy little boy would have a meltdown. I worry that I cannot relax. That I will need to leave early, to return to civilization. But I am comfortable here, at this great big lodge on the edge of the wilderness, run by a family with three rambunctious boys who Ash loves, run by owners who make the most incredible breakfasts each morning. I am comfortable - and in this moment, I am happy.

Comments

A perfect day and a perfect moment. Merry Christmas Angie!

Posted by: backofpack | December 22, 2007 03:41 PM

Love New Mexico! My husband grew up in Silver City and we go backpacking in the Gila a lot! We actually got married up near Lake Roberts, which is on the way to some Cliff Dwellings up there (maybe the same one you went to?)
Very beautiful place. Hope you have a peaceful Christmas and that it renews your spirit. I would like to do a double Phoneline with you - let me know when you plan on attempting that!

Posted by: Pinkcorker | December 22, 2007 06:51 PM

he is a cutie. here's to happiness!

Posted by: susan | December 23, 2007 03:36 AM

That sounds and looks like a wonderful, relaxing trip! Merry Christmas!!!!

Posted by: Sarah | December 23, 2007 12:43 PM

Sounds like the perfect antidote to the stressful season. And snow! I'm jealous.

Posted by: Anne | December 24, 2007 02:40 PM

Sounds wonderful!! YAY!

Posted by: Javamom | December 24, 2007 09:34 PM

Lovely post and great photos. Have a merry Christmas!

Posted by: Sarah Elaine | December 24, 2007 11:03 PM

Beautiful pictures, Angie. SO breath-taking!