Downtown Santa Fe

We all took our time getting up and around this morning. After all, we ARE on vacation and don't need to be on a tight schedule. I know I'm especially grateful for the wonderful memories being created. So much fun!

Jackalope is a group of shops that sell souvenirs, furniture, pottery and imported gifts. Rick and I shopped there in October a few times. In the middle of the shops, a low wall surrounds a prairie dog colony. They are so cute! We bought a few souvenirs, then headed downtown to the Plaza for lunch and more shopping. We parked and walked to the Plaza looking for a good lunch spot. On one corner, fajitas that a vendor was selling smelled tempting, but with the chilly wind (again) we decided to eat inside. We chose the Plaza Cafe after peeking in the windows at the 50's style diner including chrome tables and counter service. We sat at the counter, the only seats open for all six of us. the service was okay and the food was great! Homemade tortilla chips and guacamole...YUM! None of us had room for the yummy-looking desserts. In the picture, check out the 'ceramic tile' on the wall. They used broken plates and cups!

To the first Spanish settlers, the Plaza would have been the center of business. Facing the Plaza, the Palace of Governors is the oldest building in the United States. Native Americans sit under the covered portico of the Palace, selling their handcrafted silver and pottery. Our group split up to explore the shops around the Plaza. Most of the shops' prices are higher than at Jackalope. Many of the goods are custom-made or hand-made: lots of artwork, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, etc. We did manage to find some good bargains, though!

Janet reminded me to mention that all the architecture here is completely different than anything in Indiana. There is no vinyl siding as most building are covered with stucco. The building styles are Pueblo or Adobe in earthy colors of brown, terra cotta and rust with wood trim and structural members. Without going into a big explanation, the materials are used because they are abundant and readily available and durable. All buildings are required reflect this style, even Target and this parking garage.

I enjoyed the slower pace of the day. Back at 'home' we watched TV and started thinking about leaving tomorrow morning. We decided to leave for the Grand Canyon early and stop at the Petrified Forest on the way. Rick and I picked up a few items from David & Brittney to take back to Indiana. We will be glad to have them closer to us, especially with our first great-grandchild on the way!