Today, Dec. 17, 2006, I just took a walk downtown (all these pics are within 4 blocks of the hotel) and snapped pics as I went. The pictures of the Indians with their wares, I asked permission before shooting, and even then 1 person hid her face. It was cool - in the mid 40’s - which seems warm after the last few weeks, and most snow is gone. Had lunch at the Burrito Co. again, and tried the Green Chili Pork Stew, and it was OK, but I much prefer the Pork & Posole. (hominy) That, 2 weeks ago, was a real tummy warmer for sure.

Along the top edge of buildings you’ll see rows of brown plastic bags, about 2 feet apart. These are luminaria, (loo-mee-NAH-rrria) which represent the tradition of putting a candle in a paper bag to light up the Christmas season. Kinda dangerous, so these are all electric, with a plastic bag over ‘em.

I like the Spanish tradition of having a large public - this one built in 1610 - square full of trees, paths, benches, etc. Nice. The old Governor’s Palace is right here, too, built in (I think) 1688. Lotsa history here.

There’s also a tradition of building around a central plaza, so the doors can be closed and secured against intruders while life goes on inside undisturbed.

An Indian lady who works in our gift shop told me that the best quality and deals are had from these street sellers - if you know what you’re doing. Apparently, the stores can sell whatever they want, from where ever they get it, and if you’re sharp the very best stuff can be had there (at a hell of a price)…….but you can also get took. It’s worth wandering thru some of the shops, just to make your mouth water. Beautiful stuff. I found a big old Colonial Spanish style leather lounge chair with hassock that was super comfy, and I wanted to take it home………till I saw the $4200.00 price tag. They even let me sit in it, and grinned at me. “Dumb Gringos,” they must have thought. The street sellers are required to pass a certification with the tribes, proving that they use only traditional materials and work it themselves in the traditional ways. Then, there are only something like 68 spaces available, and usually over 100 applicants, chosen by lottery only. Seniority or whatever doesn’t count. There’s a lot of pride involved. Most of what I looked at today was very, very fine stuff. Prices were somewhat stiff, but to my eye looked fair enuf…..as if I know anything about it. If you like silver gee-gaws, pottery, etc., this is your place. This is a great place, and I’m enjoying it more all the time.

It’s a nice walk now. I can’t imagine what it must be like in the spring when the leaves come out and everything is green. Santa Fe has a centuries long Catholic Church presence, and there are big, fancy churches and statues everywhere. Makes for a scenic walk, even for non-religious Lar.

I’ve owned that Nikon 8800 camera for just 25 months now, and it turned over picture #20,000 today. Yah, it gets a lot of use. Great toy, but maybe something new in my near future.

Looks like I’ll be married to the hotel for the fore-see-able future. The new job demands me there ALL the time, and that’s not the boss speaking. I can see it for myself. No more long, wonderful vacations.

Posted: October 6th, 2007 under 06-12-9 Santa Fe Downtown, 08 New Mexico.
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