Cielo Azul Happenings

2012-02-17T09:27:00.001-07:00

FIESTA TIME IN SANTA FE--2011

There is an activity scheduled in Santa Fe this winter called SANTA FE WINTER FIESTA, I have been so schizophrenic in my postings (waiting for large blocks of time for bigger posts) that I am finally working up to the pictures of REGULAR Fiesta in the dead of winter. So here we go with Fiesta Thursday that is all about..........

OLD MAN GLOOM! So as they erect Zozobra out on the field behind our house, we are in the thick of preparations for our annual Zozobra Party.........

Frannie is here to help......

As is Kelly........

And Pattie--up from Albuquerque........

All of the outdoor areas surrounding the house are ready with tables and umbrellas..........

Loretta is also up from Albuquerque with the girls--bearing fantastic eats too........

Frannie loves Grandma...............

Pattie and Kelly always seem to delight us with a wonderful homemade gift--I can hardly wait to see what it is.............

The most beautiful quilt ever! Kelly calls it "My Sister's Garden" and it is inspired by the colors of Sisi's summertime garden display..........

The San Francisco crew also arrive early to help.......

As does Joaquinn--but definitely not to help...........

Pattie is ready to party, so she puts on her imaginary party hat.........

Until she finds her real one!.........

When Frannie started nursery school, we could hardly wait for her first "school pictures", when they came we were a little disappointed to see that she had a look on her face that looked like she had been caught by the camera mid B.M.--this is that look............

Yup, somebody has the "good stuff".........

Now the Fiesta Party Finery is coming out--I chose purple this year.....

And Binks is resplendent is shades of gold and brown......

A pretty girl is like a melody--all in green.................

As the Beatles would say: "Get Back, Loretta!"--she's ready to PARTY!.......

Flouncing on the lawn.......

Of course, If you have the most ric-rac and the most petticoats, you might feel some resentment from the other girls.......

Maybe even a LOT OF RESENTMENT..........

And so the party commences.......

With Dwight and Diana playing Host and Hostess....

The cutest couple in New York..........

Sisters keep the spread filled and guests dine at the Fiesta Cafe set out through the double french doors.......

Miss Johanna.........

Internet friends...............

When I look at this photo of Jennie, I am reminded of a caption on a photo of Natalie Wood in the early days of her "grown-up" career after being a child star. She was posing in a bikini and the photographer told her to "try and look a little sexy". The caption on the photo said: WELL, SHE SUCCEEDED IN THE "SEXY" PART, BUT NOT THE "LITTLE" PART. Enough said........

San Francisco Flouncers..........

Isa and Maclovio........

Maclovio really gets around..........

More family and friends................

Santa Fe's cutest couple..........

Those New York girls...........

This accomplished young man, Tyler Roller of Santa Clara Pueblo, has been a guest at our house for Zozobra for several years and he made this elegant little pot for us as a gift. We of course, were honored and thrilled.

Those San Franciscans clean up quite nicely...............

Los Novios--these two are getting married in two days.............

"There's not enough onion in the enchiladas"...............

checking their cameras before heading out to the field..........

OOOOps........................

Double ooooops................

But these guys are still on the "not naughty" list............

The Back Deck Plebe............

Something seems to have gone awry on the Familia Portal............

Flouncing into the night..........

Always nice to see cousins that you really would like to see more often............

Cynthia MUST be drinking--she seems to think her cousin Jimmy is witty............

AFTERMATH: when the party was over, we found that our Solange, who had been put in the back bedroom for safe keeping, had chewed her way halfway through the bedroom door........

But all in all, it was a great party........It is said that an opera can't end "until the fat lady sings", well, Fiesta can't start until Old Man Gloom burns............(Photo courtesy of Danny from a few years back) VIVA LA FIESTA 2011!!!!!

2012-02-16T06:57:00.001-07:00

MORE FAMILY NEWS COVERAGE--DIANA YACKING ABOUT HER TITANIC HAT...................................

Danny recorded this and then re-recorded it off his phone, so it is a bit jumpy. At about 1:05 into the clip the whole hat sililloquy commences...............

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIW_KExJSYA&feature=youtu.be

2012-02-14T08:52:00.005-07:00

YOU BETTER HAVE A HAPPY ST. VALENTINE'S DAY--OR ELSE........

LOVE AND KISSES, MEI TOY

2012-02-11T07:48:00.002-07:00

DWIGHT DEFENDS THE CAPITOL

This clip from the recent Immigration Demonstration depicts Dwight at .27 seconds into it defending the rights of the protestors from a skin-head type that was attempting to pick fights and cause trouble. I call this clip "Dwightzilla Saves Democracy".......
http://www.koat.com/video/30425607/detail.html

2012-02-09T15:42:00.001-07:00

NEW MEXICO'S CENTENNIAL BALL

January 6, 2012, and New Mexico is celebrating 100 years of statehood, and I am excited to be a volunteer at the Grand Centennial Ball.......

So on this cold afternoon, with a residual of snow on the ground, I don my black "volunteer" attire.....

And proceed to the Santa Fe Community Convention Center where all the preparations have been made.....
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And the Bienvenidos members have joined others in assisting in the celebrations....

Miss Donna has a beaming smile as she greets the volunteers at the sign-in table.....

Not everybody else is so accommodating........

Jeanne is here......

And Helen....

And Olinda.....

And dear Gracie.....

And Fabiola too............

Everybody is getting ready to put our best foot forward...........

Elle and Gracie will be among the "Greeters"........

The ballroom looks great, and each table has it's own farolito.............

A bevy of friendly faces..............

And the Romeros are spiffing up..........

Judy and Hubby are the official door openers..........

And Gracie is guarding that beautiful cake...........

The guest start arriving.........

Including sexy VIPs...................................................

Gracie and I team up for the evening......

While these ladies work the VIP entrance--escorting them to their pre-ball activity in a very special area......

Old friends reunite............

Some folks were dressed elegantly enough for the Oscars.........

And we got to enjoy seeing all the elegant evening ware--some period style from the 1912 era, some glitzy, and some just plain local color...........

More guarding--but yes, the cake did eventually get eaten...........

More guests from the Entertainment Industry--well, OUR entertainment anyway.....

Local color?...............

Gracie knows a handsome man when she sees one................

More of THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL..........

The Chavezes are ready for Andy Warhol's Black and White Ball.....

My turn with the cake.............

Miss New Mexico--crown and all!....

Gracie with our hardworking County Commissioner, Virginia.........

My former students make a dashing appearance..........

This "volunteer" job has been nothing but fun..................

Fortunately, Scott has two arms and I don't have to mud-wrestle Helen for one..........

Good luck to Carol in her upcoming political race...........

This beautiful santera is taking a night off to dance all her worries away........

It's the Battle of the Vixens on the dance floor..............

And who wouldn't only have eyes for..........

THE BELLE OF THE BALL! And a GRAND time was had by all!!!..........

Back home, I reminisce about the events of the evening.......

And along with all my fellow New Mexicans wish our fair state a Happy Birthday and many blessings in the years to come..............

2012-02-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

THE SNOW HATH COMETH......

Yesterday there was a hint of falling snow......

When Dwight went out for the paper this morning at 3:00 a.m., there was no snow, but by the time I got up at 5:00a.m., there was at least four inches.........

And still falling.......

The first real snowfall of 2012!...............

So, snuggle down inside--like Karen in Casa Escondida............

And wait till the Postman Cometh.....................

2012-02-01T08:56:00.001-07:00

IT'S FEBRUARY!--THE MOST ROMANTIC MONTH!

A pinch and a punch for the first of the month from Bianca who has a birthday this month. We miss you, Baby...........

2012-01-31T11:37:00.003-07:00

GOODBYE JANUARY 2012-It just SEEMS like the longest month of the year.........

2012-01-30T13:18:00.001-07:00

BIENVENIDOS' CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON 2011

Way back in December, when there was still snow on the ground and the surgical boot was still necessary, our Christmas season began with the annual Bienvenidos Christmas Luncheon.......

Alice was in attendance............

As was cousin Angie...................

And Miss Donna............

Who brought a certain somebody as her special guest.............

This last meeting of our "Golden Anniversary" year was an opportunity to thank those who had been benefactors to our club.....

Like the Mayor..............

And lots of other good folks.........

There were several couples in attendance.....

Like this friendly couple........

In fact a VERY friendly couple............

You could even say a WAAAAAY very friendly couple..............

Ladies and gents who lunch........

After lunch the club enjoyed the singing of Christmas Carols..............

Led by a group of Santa's special helpers...............AND A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL!

So thanks so much for understanding the crazy rhyme and reason of this blogger who's LAST post on the Christmas Holidays of 2011 is of the FIRST holiday event. 2012 will be a little topsy turvy as well, so fasten your seat belts..................

2012-01-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

GIANO HAS A BIRTHDAY!

January 12th arrives and it is time to celebrate Giancarlo's 32nd birthday......

And la familia gathered to share a meal..............

With the Birthday Boy....

Everyone wishes him their best......

Even though he seems a bit skeptical.........

There is lots of enthusiasm for the celebration......

And the entire family wishes Giano......

Happy, Happy Birthday!--AND MANY, MANY MORE!

2012-01-23T15:16:00.000-07:00

THE PORTRAIT--JANUARY 2012

For a Christmas present for Dwight and myself, Kiki offered to paint a portrait for us. So a few days into the new year she sets up her easel, prepares her wood (her preferred medium), and sets to work......

And she works for days and days........

Taking a few breaks for such things as lunch at The Shed......

And advice from big sister

Then returns to work on every detail....

And listen to lots of opinions.....

And deal with unappreciative participants..........

Until, at last, it's done and the critics arrive to proclaim their decision....

The critics approve!..................

Our portrait up close and personal!........

A very happy customer.....................

Thanks Baby Girl!

So a big "Thank You" to Chiara as she heads back to New York for the final lap on her Masters Degree. WE WILL MISS YOU!

2012-01-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

NEW YEAR'S EVE--2012

The New Year has come once more to our ancient city of Santa Fe.........

And as usual, we make our yearly pilgrimage to the plaza to celebrate......

Earlier in the day, Binks tries on an outfit trying to decide what to wear to ring in the New Year.....

But this special couple will not be ringing in the New Year in Santa Fe, they are all packed for their return flight to San Francisco.......

It is sad to say "Goodbye" to such an endearing house guest.........

And as always, Dwight is so sad to say "Goodbye" to Miss Bianca.........

But we know that she is in good hands and will have a fabulous New Year's Eve in San Francisco......

Later on we get ready for our own celebration........

After donning my New Year's tiara, we make that aforementioned Plaza stop en route........

To a festive party with local friends as well as long-ago-locals who are visiting for the holidays......

Everyone was in the spirit--perhaps Dwight feeling the most festive.......

Every body's favorite couple--Dave and Marsha........................

So here's hoping that 2012 will be (despite all the gloomy forecasts) one of the very best years ever for all of us!!

2012-01-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

CHRISTMAS MORNING 2011

Christmas morning arrives--with Winston standing guard under the Christmas tree.....

Bianca is kind enough to organize all the family's gifts.........

And distributes them one by one--oldest to youngest..............

Giano is ready to tear right into the unwrapping.....

And Poopette is right in the Santa spirit.......

Dwight is happy for some new winter clothes.....

And the "Christmas Ringmaster" keeps calling the names......

Some of the presents are way cleverly wrapped.............

More for her collection--although Giano seems to have dozed off waiting for his next gift.....

"Gee, what is it?"..........

"Maybe it goes like this"..............

"Well, I just LOVE it!"....................................

Awake again, Giano continues unwrapping his gifts.....

No, Frannie is not punching out the photographer (me)......

She's showing off her new METS ring........

Keekers is proud to be claimed by the 505..........

And Giano by the Gomez Clan with his "Grandma sweater"..........

Danny is recording all this for prosperity with his camera phone......

Mei Toy on her sumptuous pillow is disturbed by something in the room......

Solange is also perturbed by something in this box.......

Even Giano is determined to investigate......

Frannie is getting to the bottom of this situation.....

Oh, it's just a mischievous little somebody........

a VERY mischievous little somebody!.........

"Isn't he just the CUTEST little thing?"..........

Unamused, Kiki continues on the task on hand--unwrapping.....

Frannie has garnered a classic movie DVD.......

It's a struggle with some of this tenuous wrap......

But the vintage hat is worth the trouble.....

Nothin' says lovin' like giant salt shakers--at least to a saltaholic like me........

Giano is cautious as he proceeds--who knows who might have crawled into his box.........

Someone who loves Frannie a lot must have given her this "ov'Glove" and corresponding fish pot holder set......

Miss Binks waxes philosophical on the events of the morning.......

And Keekers is amazed as she watches the opening of the many gifts from Winston's stocking he got from his friend Tinker......
.

After sampling the fresh catnip in his stocking, Winston jumped up, ran outside and climbed the tree to a high perch over the driveway ...........

Where he, quite frankly, got more than just a little jiggy with it! We hope that all you, gentle readers. had a wonderful Christmas and that you had an occasion to "get more than just a little jiggy with it" too!

2012-01-07T05:24:00.002-07:00

A FILM CLIP FROM LAST NIGHT'S CENTENNIAL GRAND BALL......

Check out this clip from New Mexico's Grand Centennial Ball. I can be seen yacking away at 1:06 into it, Gracie O. at 1:29, and the back of Angie's gorgeous red sequin dress at 1:47. Happy 100th Birthday, New Mexico! http://www.koat.com/video/30155792/detail.html

2012-01-04T17:02:00.000-07:00

IT'S CHRISTMAS EVE IN SANTA FE, 2012.....

I'm ready for the epitome of this Holiday Season.......

Because tonight is Christmas Eve!!

The Cathedral is all aglow with Christmas finery....

For the Children's Midnight Mass....

That is not at Midnight at all......

But in the early evening that leaves the faithful with time to......

Attend fabulous parties--like Angie and Larry's annual bash...where the food is fantastic........

And the company is full of festive conviviality........

Like these two brothers.....

And Miss Frannie who would never miss Angie's party and who is recording it on film.....

Grandma and Keeks know that the first order of business is to fill your plate with the wonderful Christmas fare.....

Cynthia may be boozing, but it is the photo that is bleary, not Cynthia........

This is cousin Jacob who is apparently in the Witness Protection Program.....

But he is revealed in the background of this shot.......

Lori in a Delgado sandwich...........

A beautiful smile from the Keekers...........

It's so great that all my family can be together for the holidays........

Sisi is a vision is brown velvet...........

Well, I guess not ALL of our relatives are that happy to see us......

But that perky little Cecilia sure is!........

Mommie loves Baby Binks........................

Man Power--pun intended..................

Dwight apparently does not have great expectations for Christmas..............

And neither does Louie..............

But Sisi is confident that she is not on Santa's Naughty List..............

Da Girls do their musical number........

And remain available for autographs afterwards.......

Okay, even Sophia can have a brilliant smile when she wants to smile......

A Thank You to the Hostess with the Mostest for being the one to make it possible for the extended family to unite on this holiest of nights........

At our next party, I encountered many of my former students--like Kai, currently a TV Anchorman in El Paso, but soon to move up to an even bigger audience in Portland. He posted this photo on my Facebook. It was a special treat to see so many of my former students and to see how successful they have become in their young lives......

So I hope that your Christmas Eve was as blessed as ours was and that your entire Holiday Season was one to remember.

2012-01-01T10:43:00.002-07:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!

Best wishes for many, many blessings in the New Year!..........................

2012-01-01T10:39:00.002-07:00

THE NEW YEAR HAS BEGUN....

Click on image to enlarge calendar photo for January 2012........

Click on image to enlarge calendar dates for January 2012.

A pinch and a punch for the first of the month with the cover of the 2012 Cielo Azul calendar.

2011-12-31T10:08:00.001-07:00

GOODBYE TO DECEMBER &.....

Click on image to enlarge calendar photo for December 2011.

Click on image to enlarge calendar dates for December 2011.

And,,,,,,,,,,,,And Goodbye to all of the year 2011--with parting shots from the 2011 Cielo Azul Calendar.

2011-12-31T09:59:00.002-07:00

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON WITH FRIENDS

For our annual "Friends" luncheon, we met this year at the Hotel Santa Fe..............

Where the group gathered................

To celebrate another year of friendship and camaraderie.........

In the restaurant besides the gracious lobby...........

AND A GREAT TIME WAS HAD BY ALL!!

2011-12-30T08:58:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DUDE!

Mr. Raphael Chavez is celebrating a birthday today in New York City. HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY, DUDE!

2011-12-22T09:43:00.002-07:00

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS....

The tree is up and Dwight is busy testing the lights.......

Illumination!!

"Oooh boy! Am I gonna have a Christmas Tree romp just like last year?".............

Mommie is busy decorating, but with her big surgery boot, she needs two stools..........

Fortunately, the Doctor says the boot might come off in just a few days if the bone is healed...........

All these preparations can be just exhausting................

But the next day, the humans are back at it adding to the tree......

Because the out-of-town children are trickling back for the holidays and Bianca is first!--here the Santa Fesanos enjoy a break in shopping to enjoy a lunch in Albuquerque..........

Baby Binks is delighted to share some quality time with Auntie Sisi......

And to get some advice from Uncle Danny.............

Despite all the "La Nina" forecasts, we have actually gotten a good amount of snow in Santa Fe already this winter..........

But not as much snow as Hyde Park where the sisters are going sledding in their team Suits......

Now I know that their is an old superstition about walking under a ladder and another about letting a black cat cross your path, but what about walking under a black cat?............

Now the holidays can commence in full because Kiki is back from New York--Here, Binks places the final topper on the tree while Keeks marvels over Winston's extravagant Xmas gift from his admirer and friend Tinker and Giano rubs his hands in anticipation and hope that somewhere he might also have a secret admirer to lavish him with gifts this Christmas..........

So, the "Golden Child" sleeps tight knowing that he is the king of all he surveys..........But you better be good, Winston, you better not frown, because..............

We hope that all of you Gentle Readers have a warm and wonderful Christmas--just like we hope to have here at Cielo Azul. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL! And to all--A GOODNIGHT!

2011-12-20T06:23:00.003-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS GREETINGS..................

FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOURS! WISHING YOU A SPLENDID CHRISTMAS AND ALL THE BLESSINGS OF THE SEASON!

2011-12-12T15:51:00.002-07:00

BINKY'S HERE! BINKY'S HERE!

And of course, no visit home would be complete without a lunch at The Shed.........

Where the girls could warm their legs while we await a table........

Even Grandma doesn't mind waiting for a table at The Shed......

Sisi peers out from the crowd to see if a table is on hand......

But the wait is part of the drill at this popular restaurant.......

When we finally get seated, Frannie regales us with tales of her exciting life..........

And Artie keeps an eye on Donna to see that she doesn't eat all the food........

Baby Binks gives a pretty pose while Danny checks something on one of his phone's apps.............

As the lunch progresses, Frannie's life tales become even more fantastic.................

And the lovebirds look over the menu for dessert.............

Back home, Winston is all snuggled in and thinks we were foolish to brave the cold just for some food........

Baby Binks snuggles up to a good book..................

And Giano joins her in the reading mode...............

Then as the pets prepare for yet another winter's nap.......

Including Topaz...............

And the languorous Mr. Winston...................

Baby Binks, herself settles into some happy dreams.....................

And awakens to a scrumptious dinner prepared by brother, Giano. Now that I have been laid up, the menfolk have stepped up and prepared many of our meals. This steak is a perfect Weight Watchers proportion for Mama........................

But the meal also included mashed potatoes and asparagus..............

Next day--not to be outdone--Dwight prepared a whole turkey!

So, Goodbye for now Bianca, but we know that you will be back for Christmas soon.
WE CAN HARDLY WAIT!

2011-12-06T07:01:00.001-07:00

BIENVENIDOS' NOVEMBER LUNCHEON

On a crisp autumn day, Bienvenidos is set for it's November luncheon.

As always, Alice is ready for the day's events.........

First there is the Board Meeting.....

Then a lovely luncheon for all the ladies and gents who lunch....

Today, we have a presentation from the Santa Fe Historical Society........

With a slide presentation appreciated by the membership......

More ladies and gents who lunch........

This will be our last meeting in this gorgeous space on Museum Hill.....

With all the lovely architectural details......

More ladies and gents who lunch.......

AND A SUPER GRAND TIME WAS HAD BY ALL!

2011-12-01T10:25:00.001-07:00

IT'S THE HAP-HAPPIEST TIME OF THE YEAR!

IT'S DECEMBER! Click on the image to enlarge the calendar photos for December 2011.

Click on the image to enlarge calendar dates for December 2011.

A pinch and a punch for the first of the month from Elliott who has a birthday this month. We trust that you are being a very, very good boy and that Santa will soon be coming.........

2011-12-01T09:57:00.001-07:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 2011!

We are very excited and grateful to be able to celebrate this most American of holidays this year....

We are invited to Casa Montoya where daughter Sisi has set a gorgeous table and prepared a lavish spread.....

One of the great excitements of the day is that Baby Binks arrived in Santa Fe just in time for dinner--Frannie obviously approves.....

And Carlitos obviously approves of the delicious food..............

Dwight is happy because as Sisi puts it : "our lives turn to technicolor from black and white when the kids are here"............

I am especially happy to see Danny up and about and really getting a handle on his life again after his episode with ill health.............

Our Chef Extraordinaire definitely knows how to toast our blessings on this day.............

Among the special blessings we at Cielo Azul have to be thankful for are our beloved pets--some quite domestic..........

One still totally feral................

And even some that are extraordinairly adorable.............

I'm also very, very thankful for my hubby and bestest nurse, Dwightie.............

And appreciate Danny a little bit more this year........

I also totally appreciate all my dear friends and family who have been so kind to me as I recover from foot surgery--THANKS SO MUCH!

So from all of us in our little corner of the world--HAPPY THANKSGIVING AND MANY BLESSINGS TO YOU ALL!

2011-11-21T08:35:00.001-07:00

THE CHAVEZ COLLECTION
GOODBYE NOVEMBER! Click on image to enlarge calendar photo for November 2011.

Click on image to enlarge calendar dates for November 2011.

THE FANTASTICAL CHAVEZ COLLECTION!-SEPTEMBER 2011

Just prior to Fiesta, Sisi arranged a showing of her fabulous Fiesta Dress Collection. So scroll down to enjoy lots of beautiful dresses, gorgeous models and lots of fun! Bcause this is the largest post I have ever posted to this blog, and because I am recovering from foot surgery, I sort of wimped out on the descriptions and on including any rating of the dresses. However, you, gentle readers, may want to rate the collection yourself by voting on the comment section at the bottom of the post for your favorite dress and your favorite photo. (If you want to copy any photo, just click on it to open it up to full size, then right click on the opened image and select "Save as". After saving, just back arrow back to the blog.) This is photo #1

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AND A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL!
Click on the COMMENT link below to vote for your favorite dress and your favorite photo.

2011-11-16T14:03:00.001-07:00

A WEDDING BLESSING

A few weeks ago, Laura and Keith got married in a civil ceremony.......

Today, they are having their marriage blessed using symbolic foods and traditional prayers.....................

Hyda, the mother of the bride, serenades them with some beautiful flute music.....

As the newlyweds respectfully listen......

To this "gift" from a mother's heart.....

As sage is burned, one of the officiants uses eagle feathers to surround the couple with smoke.....

The other officiant blesses the special foods selected for the ceremony. She then has them drink water from the black pottery wedding vase--symbolizing life.................

Hyda offers them symbolic corn.......

And they share a few bites..............

Carlos, brother of the bride, offers them fruit representing the joys of childhood.........

After offering meat for strength, there is another blessing...........

"You may now kiss your bride......"

With a blanket uniting them, the couple gets another special blessing............

Sisi and the other guests are enjoying the ceremony and silently including their own blessings..........

Because every guest is here because he or she wishes these two newlyweds much happiness....

Hyda addresses a few words to the couple as she prepares to shower them with rose petals and her own personal warm wishes.....

Carlos follows suit.....

As does Sisi.......

Laura and Kieth are humbled as each guest gets an opportunity to personally bless the new husband and wife and shower them with rose petals..............

Finally, the largest shower of all......................

And the newlyweds begin their life together on a carpet of rose petals.........

Afterwards, the guests enjoyed a reception with lots of wonderful music, eats and happy thoughts...........

The happiest being: BEST WISHES FOR A LIFETIME OF LOVE AND HAPPINESS, LAURA AND KEITH!

2011-11-11T14:14:00.001-07:00

WHAT HAPPENS WITH THE GIRLS,

STAYS WITH THE GIRLS........

Annabelle is celebrating a birthday, so we are meeting to honor her at a cozy French Restaurant.......

Josina discovered this place while on jury duty..............

And like all self-respecting French restaurants, the meal includes some vino.......

Louise is ready to party.............

As the good times roll......................

When Theesa is released from the Witness Protection Program, she will emmerge from behind the deserts............

And a fabulous time was had by all..................

2011-11-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

BYE, BYE, KEEKERS....

After a lovely, but too short visit, the early morning has arrived when we have to say "Goodbye" to Miss Chiara. Even Winston is feeling glum.............

It's always wonderful to see the girls, but we know that they have to return to their busy lives--in Kiki's case, that's back to her studies and internships in New York................

The Albuquerque Sunport beckons...........

And Dwight gets a bit misty eyed saying farewell.....

Saying "Goodbye is hard to do.....This photo reminds me of that video on U-Tube of the local reporter going on and on about some story while in the background you can clearly see some guy on his knee proposing to his girl at the airport............

Back home, and Winston cries himself to sleep missing Kiki. Don't worry little guy, she'll be back for Christmas!

2011-11-08T09:35:00.001-07:00

AN OCTOBER VISIT WITH LUKE

The grass on the Plaza was still green and the hanging baskets were in full bloom when Terrie, Dawn and Luke rode the train up for a visit in Santa Fe. Here he is with his "Auntie Dube"..........

This is everyone's "movie star pose".......

Up close and personal with Grandma. Needless to say, a good time was had by all!

2011-11-04T08:51:00.001-06:00

WHAT TO DO WHEN AUTUMN TURNS COLD....

If you're visiting from New York, like Kiki, you can dazzle Santa Fe with your stylish winter attire--Can you say "Mooooovie Staaaar"?

If you're Solange, you can cuddle up on a warm rug with your natural fur coat...........

If you're Topaz, you can fight for your spot in front of the newly lit furnace.........

And once you have established your rights, settle down for a bath and a nap............

If you are a "fancy dog" like Mei Toy, you get your seasonal grooming..........

If you're practical like Tallulah, you find a quiet place, away from the others, and just snuggle into the covers...........

If you're a "pretty boy" like Winston, you just do what you do best--pose in incredibly adorable ways for cute pictures.................

Like Waaaay cute! Can you say "Hollywooood!"?.......So whatever your style, stay warm and get ready, the cold is here for a while............

2011-11-01T05:34:00.000-06:00

DEEP INTO AUTUMN, NOVEMBER 2011

IS HERE!

Click on image to enlarge calendar photo for November 2011.

Click on image to enlarge calendar dates for November 2011.

A pinch and a punch for the first of the month from Sisi who has a birthday this month. Enjoy your month, little sister, cause winter is close behind...........

2011-10-31T07:58:00.003-06:00

GOODBYE TO THE "HALLOWEENIE " MONTH OF OCTOBER 2011!

Click on image to enlarge..........

Click on image to enlarge calendar photo for October 2011.

Click on image to enlarge calendar dates for October 2011.

Diana the witch and Tony Soprano wish you a spooky Halloween!

And Winston too..............................BOO!

2011-10-28T16:02:00.001-06:00

BIENVENIDOS' 60S PARTY--OCTOBER '11

I'm totally psyched because today Bienvenidos is having a 60s Party to commemorate it's 50th Birthday--being founded in 1961. In honor of the occasion, I am wearing one of my favorite dresses that I used to wear waaaay back in the 1960s..........

Some folks, like Alice, wore some funky glasses from those groovy days........

And for some, like Olinda, it was a favorite charm bracelet from "back in the days"...........

And for Donna, it was a happenin' paisley top from the era........

But some folks went all out to celebrate our party!

Like "faaaar out"..........

Frannie was on hand to show the photostory depicting fifty years of our club and of our city for us.....

Ladies and Gents who lunch..........................

And a Swinging Time was had by all!!!!

2011-10-21T12:05:00.001-06:00

THE WEDDING OF ERIK AND CLARE--SEPTEMBER 2011

On September 10, 2011, two wonderful people decided to declare their love and celebrate at a gorgeous wedding.........

We were thrilled and delighted to be able to attend.....Because, as you know, all you need for a fabulous wedding is.......

A dashing groom............

And a blushing bride..............

And a romantic Spanish hacienda...............

To set the magical mood...............

The venue is so perfectly appointed...............

And the view is to die for................

Frannie is in attendance................

As are Binky and Michael all the way from San Francisco.................

Not to mention the ultra chic New York set--Isa and her Michael..........

The bride has a very lovely mother............

The guests are getting very excited for the ceremony to begin..............

Including Mom and Clare's brother Michael...................(Remember that "Michael" has been the #1 name for boys in our country for many years)

And the music begins............

And here they come--bridesmaid #1................

And bridesmaid #2, our own dear Kiki.....................

The Maid of Honor................

And here comes the bride--escorted by her brother and her mother...............

And such a lovely brides she is too--as she approaches.........

Her groom and his grooms men...................

Time to give your daughter "away"............

To the man of her dreams in the setting of her dreams..................

Their vows were spoken from the heart..............

Three little maids all in a row...........

Up close and personal--where you may detect a tear or two...........

As the heartfelt vows has many shedding happy tears...........

They pledge their love in this beautiful New Mexico landscape that they love..........

Surrounded by folks who love them...........

"You may now kiss your bride"........................

This could be the start of something BIG!..............

And now to greet all of those who are gathered here to give you all their very best wishes....................

Lots of hugs and kisses............

From those who you love...........

And those who love you....................

It's your time to shine.............

Hollywooooood!............

Glittering smiles................

Everyone is so happy for the bride and groom.........

The receiving line is at the top of the staircase in a large salon the opens up to a beautiful courtyard...

The flowers are all in shades of the brides colors of hot pink and hot orange combined with grey.....

And they just DID!

And the well-wishers just keep coming.....

Bodyguards were provided for celebrities...........

Frannie is outside in the courtyard where a lovely repast of appetisers and libations is being offered to the guests...............She looks a bit askance at all the lovey dovey stuff.........

But Michael and Bianca are definitely feeling the groove.................

A-DORE-A-BLE! That's all you can say about this darling girl and her stylish outfit!..........

The flowers are pretty, but my Keekers is prettier............

We're all enjoying the flowers...........

And I do mean ALL of us....................

A hug for a pretty bridesmaid............

New York "roomies" celebrating in New Mexico..........

The tall and the small of it.................

"Hey, is that enchiladas and chile I smell?"................(Yup, like all good New Mexicans, Erik and Clare feted their guests to a banquet of New Mexican fare)

Micheal and Binks are true fans..........

Chiara gets the word that the wedding party is needed downstairs.............

She takes her duties quite seriously.......

Because now it's time for the formal pictures.............

Clare gathers the girls in the lovely setting now arranged for the banquet to follow................

Like a portrait of the beautiful bride...............(I was angling my way into the professional photographer's shots, so some of them may be from an obscure perspective...)

And the Beautiful Groom............

Honestly, he IS a very good looking guy--flowers or not...........

Hey, not only newlyweds can look great on film......

The bride and her attendants............

In various poses.............

And up close.............

The groom and his guys............

The groom and the girls...............

The bride and the guys...................

And.......everybody all together.............

After all the "necessary shots" are taken care of, a decision is made to let their hair down after all these months of preparations and have some fun............

Keeks is all for that!..................

So here are some fun shots..............

The girls try to "shut" Erik up...........

Which is fighting words for new brother-in-law Michael..............

"What ARE they doing?"............

Just having fun, that's all!

Femme pensive.............

SEE NO EVIL, HEAR NO EVIL, SPEAK NO EVIL..............

Thanks to Erik and Clare for all the fun.......

And for including us in your big celebration!.........

Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness!!

(Photos of the reception to follow later--as behind as I am, it might be in the dead of winter)

2011-10-18T08:19:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY WINSTON!

Three years ago, little Winston was born to a feral cat on the fringes of the Chickasaw National Park near Sulphur, Oklahoma. Shortly after giving birth, his mother moved her brood leaving the little "runt" behind. Here he is in his early days with us when he was still being fed out of an eye dropper.........

And here is the full blown Mr. Winston today--the master of all he surveys.................
Happy Birthday precious fella--thanks for all the joy you have brought us!

2011-10-18T08:18:00.001-06:00

2011-10-13T07:07:00.001-06:00

NEW MEXICO STATE CAPITOL'S NEW GUARD COYOTE

This elegant little fellow is just steps away from Dwight's office. There are also rumors of two little coyote pups on the property. State Game and Fish does not track and capture coyotes like bears and mountain lions. (Photo courtesy of Gadi Swartz)

2011-10-11T13:23:00.000-06:00

COLUMBUS DAY IN THE GARDEN--2011As the last fleeting days of Indian Summer pass us by, we take a few moments to honor the beauty of our summer garden...

The pets are busy helping Daddy with his chores.........

Most of which involve preparing for winter.....

Goodbye to our "summer paradise"......................

While the pets look forward to many more winter naps on their soft warm pillows........

We humans have a compulsion to soak in all the beauty of this season before it passes into the bleakness of winter..........

2011-10-07T10:00:00.001-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!

Ricardo Montoya was born October 7, 1921. We love and miss him......

THAT SPOOKY MONTH OF OCTOBER IS UPON US!--2011

2011-10-01T03:29:00.001-06:00

Click on image to enlarge calendar photo for October 2011.

Click on image to enlarge claendar dates for October 2011.

A pinch and a punch for the first of the month from Shelley and Jordan who both have birthdays this month. PARTY ON!

ODDS AND ENDS FROM SUMMER 2011

2011-10-01T03:17:00.001-06:00

At the end of the season, a few photos that did not fit in any particular posting...Like this garden shot

And Miss Topaz wanting to come inside......

And Sisi flouncing for Indian Market..............

And Diana doing the same....

SHAME? or merely laziness........

Lunch with Grandma..............

Getting ready for a party....

Like Jade and her mama, Martina......

And the Birthday boy and girl--Louise and Dennis.........

BOREDOM.......

A really ugly bug.............

And a last sigh for the end of summer.

2011-09-30T07:24:00.000-06:00

Farewell to the DEVASTATINGLY beautiful month of September--2011

Click on Image to enlarge calendar photo for September 2011.

Click on Image to enlarge calendar dates for September 2011.