Into New Mexico

October 6, Friday

Onward toward Albuquerque, with our first stop at the Cadillac Ranch just outside of Amarillo.  Very muddy but lots of people stopping.  Last time we were by here, the cars were all pink.

Lots more wind turbines along the road.

 We decide to stop at a small town named Tucumcari.

 Tucumcari started a program of painting murals on many of the buildings, some of which are very nice, and there are a few hotels and restaurants that are holdovers.

 We check out some murals and a little information center in what was once the Townhouse Hotel.  Then we stop at a Route 66 Museum featuring many photos, old cars and other memorabilia.

 Route 66 was one of the first roads that ran from Chicago to California in 1926.  It was all paved by 1936.  It ushered in an age of automobile travel and a plethora of service companies all along the road.  It was bypassed by route 40 and others in the 60s and 70s and many of the small town were bypassed as well.  They struggle to maintain interest and attract travelers. Some of the unique hotels and shops remain.

  The lady at the museum was sweet and informative.  There is a college in town, MesaLand, which teaches folks to operate and work on Wind Turbines, which sounds pretty popular.  She suggest a barbq restaurant which, when we find it, is “all smoked out” for day, so we go back to I-40.

The engine light stays off and the fridge, which had been acting wanky when on propane, straightens up, so hopefully all is good now.  We decide to stop at Santa Rosa State Park but first stop for a hearty lunch at the Lake City Diner.  It is in a building built as a bank in 1901 and has a gorgeous tin ceiling. The couple who runs it both came out to speak to us.  Greg tries the New Mexico specialty Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas

while Beth has fried chicken which comes with a green chili gravy.

Thankfully I got the chili gravy on the side  to taste, because one smidgin of it on a bite of chicken was plenty for me!  New Mexico IS the Green Chili Capital.

From there we head to Santa Rosa State Park, find a nice spot and settle in for the night.

The state park is less than 10 miles out of town near a big lake and dam.  The day has gotten warmer but it is very windy.  Even along Route 40 we saw signs about strong cross winds.  After a few stops, we find our home for the night – campsite B1.

Still full from lunch, we’ll snack this evening.  I’m sitting outside typing this and it is nearly 7:00.  We are waiting for a good sunset now that we have nice blue skies with a few fluffy clouds.  The temperature  is falling and I’ve already added a jacket. May have to use a blanket tonight!