new mexico

A Forced Pause – Quarantine Life

| jamiefeinberg

How things change for full-time RVers during COVID-19!

Before leaving Florida, we spent several weeks stocking up on supplies (all via delivery), not just for our journey across the country, but also for when we arrived in New Mexico. It was fun – we didn’t just buy supplies for meals, but we also bought car snacks and treats so that we could avoid gas station runs or Walmart stops to minimize our risk.

Our Misfits Market subscription was also an excellent source for this, from oat milk to nuts and granola. In addition, we decided to top off our produce and proteins with a delivery from Sprouts (new to us) while we were in Oklahoma City.

Our planning was extremely helpful. We could have gotten through a month in the RV if we needed to! As it stands, we’re currently more than halfway through our two week quarantine in New Mexico, and we’ve got all we need for sustenance and fun, including several bottles of wine and fancy cheese for a once a week treat. Our planning has made our adventuring fun instead of feeling like a burden.

So, what do we do for fun when we can’t leave the campground? In addition to our work (which has run the gamut from music teaching and music making to virtual assistant work and coaching), we’ve done the following:

  • Completed a mystery box from Deadbolt Mystery Society
  • Enjoyed wine and cheese after a night of (virtual) yoga and a (virtual) ukulele jam
  • Watched the entire series Space Force on Netflix (it’s so funny and sweet!)
  • Watched several Youtube videos about the history of Disney parks and properties
  • Taken daily walks around the campground (well, Jamie has anyway)
  • Enjoyed mountain views
  • Had Zoom meetups with family and friends
  • Made tacos and guacamole, caramel popcorn, fancy pasta and s’mores

I’m sure we’ve done much more too, but those are the first eight things that come to mind. And since most of those are things that I imagine most all of us can do from home, maybe it will give you some inspiration to create an adventure at home this weekend or any time.

What’s your favorite fun activity when you can’t leave home?

______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com. 

The Top 5 Things From Our Cross-Country Trek

| jamiefeinberg

It’s an unusual week when we drive across the U.S. in 10 days, but that’s what we just did! Okay, sure we stopped in New Mexico, not California, but that was pretty darn close to coast to coast, so we’re counting it.

It would be easy for me to lament all of the cool places we didn’t stop along the way (due to COVID-19, budget constraints or anything else), but instead, I thought it would be more fun to share the top five things that we did get to do on our trip!

We’ve created an absolutely incredibly lifestyle for ourselves, and we know we’re very privileged to get to live and travel on our own terms. And of course, we’ve made lots of decisions along the way that have allowed us to build this life, and we love helping other people to do the same. Today, I’m celebrating our hard work that led us here, as well as the hard work that got us across the country in ten days! Here are the top five parts of our latest RVing adventure.

5. Cracker Barrel 

Okay, so maybe visiting Cracker Barrel doesn’t sound like your top choice right now, but as full-time RVers we love that Cracker Barrel has RV-sized spaces and allows overnight parking. We don’t eat at a lot of chains, but we do visit a Cracker Barrel a few times a year because it’s affordable, tasty and it gives us a safe place to stay (usually with a convenient location off the highway and near or in cities with fun things to do). In the age of COVID, I really thought we’d be skipping them this time around, but as we were driving we started noticing a lot of highway signs for Cracker Barrel that said “Dine In. Curbside. Delivery.”

So when we needed a spot for a night, we didn’t hesitate to try Cracker Barrel. We used their curbside option (Ross drove the car into a curbside space) so that we didn’t need to go inside. As usual, it was reliably delicious with big portions. And curbside was so easy that when Ross needed more coffee on the way out of town, it was curbside again for the win! (Oh, and if you’re wondering, Ross doesn’t really have a regular order, but I do – I love getting tons of sides so I can get my veggie fix! And some fried apples, of course.)

4. Twin Fountains RV Resort, Oklahoma City, OK

This campground is such a cool one! In the time of COVID-19, many of the perks aren’t as appealing (limo rides to downtown, anyone?), but we enjoyed the spacious grounds (largest campsite we’ve ever stayed at!), catch and release pond and laundry facilities. They’ve also got a restaurant, salon and dog groomer on site. This was a great spot and if we ever want to spend more time in Oklahoma City, we will be happy to pay a bit of a premium to stay here!

3. Tontitown Winery, Springdale, AR plus Fayetteville Fun

This winery was perfect for a Harvest Hosts stay, with delicious wine, a sweet spot with electricity, room to walk in nature nearby and some amazing food too! We did a meat/nut/cheese/fruit tray for 2 for dinner, and it was incredible, with pickled veggies, olives, bread and crackers as well as the aforementioned deliciousness. And thanks to corona, they had made their famous grape ice cream for a local festival and didn’t have an outlet for it (no festival this year), so we were able to grab a pint of homemade ice cream too!

We went with takeout, but outdoor seating with live music was also an option. Such a fun night, and super convenient for exploring nearby Fayetteville! Under normal circumstances, we would have done a lot more, but even so, I (Jamie) had previously tried another location of Bliss Cupcake Cafe when I was passing through, and it was amazing and had stellar gluten-free options. (I also learned that delivery is now an option – so you can get these too!)

I made a trip to Fayetteville for cupcakes and a key lime frosting shot to go, and since I was heading in anyway, I got some homemade ice cream as well (also excellent). Basically a pretty perfect evening!

2. Big Spoon Creamery, Birmingham, AL

Well, if this was just about me (and not Ross), this would be number 1! But since Jamie went solo, it gets the number 2 slot. Big Spoon Creamery’s ice cream was incredible. Life-changing. I went with three flavors, and while they were all absolutely incredible, the vanilla was literally the best I’ve ever had in my life.

No doubt. More like a custard and more like white chocolate, honestly…so outstanding! I would probably just tell everyone to get the chocolate and the vanilla. Perfect together or solo. I can’t wait to go back someday. Such a highlight!! You can look forward to a blog about it here soon.

And finally, at #1, Iron Star Urban Barbeque, Oklahoma City, OK

Curbside from Iron Star was so good that we seriously debated going back immediately for more food. Ross went with a brisket sandwich (it comes with amazing pickles!), and believe it or not, I just had a bite and ordered some outstanding deviled eggs that came with a spicy vegetable pickle appetizer! (I was saving room for ice cream, TBH.)

This place is truly special, and we can’t recommend it more highly. Honorable mention to Roxy’s Ice Cream Social for some excellent ice cream with extraordinarily friendly service.

As you can see, we had a TON of fun despite the challenges of COVID. We felt much more comfortable treating ourselves when we got out of Florida and Georgia (the COVID hot spots), and we had some really tasty indulgences as we made our way across the country, taking what felt like reasonable risks for us.

So, I want to know: How are things where you are? How are you making the most of your summer right now?

______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com. 

Planning To Head West

| jamiefeinberg

It’s taken us long enough, but we’ve finally made up our minds (so far!) about where we are headed next.

As with much of full-time RVing, it’s subject to change and dependent on weather and our Florida neighbors and of course on our wonderful RV/home and how happy it is when it’s time to leave and travel across the U.S.

The Colorado Springs area has been one of our absolute favorites, although we spent less than a week in the area, and based on our research and what we know so far, it’s a top contender for a place to settle down, either part-time or all year. It’s also one of the more affordable parts of Colorado, a state we absolutely adore and full of TONS of favorite places worth of day and weekend trips. So we’ll be calling our favorite campground at the beginning of August to make a reservation. With limited campsites, we may or may not get an acceptable site, but we’ll give it our best shot!

In the event that our top choice campground isn’t available, we aren’t comfortable winging it for WiFi heading into the winter (see what I did there?), so we’ll instead make our winter home Las Cruces, NM, a community we love with great weather and some of our favorite places to eat and enjoy frozen custard.

Our plan will be to arrive on or around October 1 at our new destination, whichever community that may be, and we’ll be taking some time off of work to make the travel days even easier. Unlike some past travel days, we’re planning out our route very carefully, including anticipated stops for gas, to avoid extra exposure and stress due to COVID-19, and we plan to quarantine ourselves for two weeks when we reach our destination to avoid infecting anyone at our new destination.

We anticipate that we may choose a campground midway to flush our tanks and such, but otherwise we anticipate relying on Harvest Hosts as much as possible – it’s so fun to get goodies like wine and treats instead of paying for a campsite!

We’re so thankful for the flexibility that RVing allows us. Please send us all of your good thoughts and prayers and vibes for a safe and easy transition. Hoping our tires & overall RV are happy, that our car is too, and of course that we’ll all stay safe and healthy throughout our adventure.

Keep fighting for what’s right and staying safe during these challenging times, friends. Sending you hugs & thanks for reading!

______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com. 

 

Happy New Year and Next Steps

| jamiefeinberg

Wow, it’s hard to believe 2019 is ending and 2020 is beginning! We have managed to fit so much into this year, it’s really been a banner year for us. So here are some of the highlights of where we’ve been and what we’ve accomplished this year, with a few musings for the future.

We started the year off in New Mexico, and we actually spent almost six months there, with ample time in Tularosa/Alamogordo and Deming, where we threw down routes with a state park pass for hiking and history and trips to Tucson, AZ (the desert museum is always our favorite), El Paso, TX (free theater, yoga and flying out of the airport to NH), Las Cruces, NM (ukulele festival and of course all of the free museums and parks) and Silver City, NM (performing, good eats, amazing shops and ice cream). We also spent time in neighboring cities, including a few visits to Roswell to perform, explore and eat excellent ice cream. In May and June, we shifted north, basing ourselves south of Albuquerque mainly, with visits to ruins, time in Taos (the best chocolate ice cream ever!), Santa Fe art explorations for our anniversary and of course a full week falling in love with Albuquerque during the Senior Olympics. We performed a lot throughout New Mexico, with the anchor being at yoga studios, which meant meeting people and, for Jamie, lots of free yoga classes!

At the end of June, we headed north, dusting off our Harvest Hosts path rather than going the campground route, and fell in love with new parts of Colorado, including Pueblo, Old Colorado City in Colorado Springs and a variety of Denver suburbs, with an RV park bordering a huge park perfect for Jamie’s walks. While staying there, Jamie flew to Slovenia, and while Ross’ promised work fell through, he took advantage of the location to see more of the music and comedy scene in Denver and get further work done on his ukulele course. We also performed together in Denver at Your Mom’s House.

After Jamie returned, having said her goodbyes to her grandfather, it was a quick dash out of Colorado, with the next month spent exploring Boulder, CO (complete love and wonderful performing experience!) and a visit to Tillamook and the coast for a few days. We also stayed at a winery with hookups, washer dryer, an open schedule and the nicest people imaginable, and our Tillamook location was perfect for the beach and had absolutely amazing food and drink for purchase.

From Boulder we enjoyed the gorge as we headed north (oh, we also boondocked on the gorge, just amazing!) and spent wonderful time with family in the Eastern part of the state. They catsat for us while we spent almost a week in Seattle, having an absolutely incredible time with Jamie’s cousin, enjoying a Star Wars stage show, outstanding ice cream and our first pho in addition to a great performance. We also fell in love with Seattle, made easier with a gorgeous week of weather, and Ross bought a new game system. When we returned to Ross’ family, via some delicious ice cream, we had some RV trouble, and a generous gift made it easy to get back on the road quickly.

Then it was time to head back. We spent a great night at a brewery in Missoula (with okay beer but tasty seltzer and a great location), and Jamie and Ross went into the town and walked her old haunts, getting ice cream too of course. The next day, Jamie got a call that her grandfather had passed away and the funeral would be in four days. So it was time for quick decisions.

While Ross would take a more typical pace across the country, with a stop to see friends in Iowa, Jamie raced, loading up on a gluten-free bagel sandwich with lox in Missoula, MT before departing at noon Wednesday. She made it with minutes to spare to an 11 a.m. funeral on Saturday in New Hampshire! She also got some tasty ice cream and a nice walk in Wisconsin as well as tons of city driving experience along the way. Ross’ mom acted as her travel agent, booking motels as needed on her path.

Jamie was reunited with Ross and Squeak about a week later, and the fall was full of teaching artist work (ukulele for Ross, theater improvisation for Jamie), performing for yoga and at Amphora (so much delicious food and drink!), teaching, socializing and of course producing the musical Goblin Market at the Hatbox Theatre.

After a full fall, with amazing Hatchland soft serve and Sweetly Offbeat gluten-free cheesecakes, we spent a quiet Thanksgiving together before heading south. We spent time with Ross’ sister and husband and Jamie’s cousin and wife and new baby, visited an awesome cheap winery, had an incredible visit to Savannah where Ross declared we could move there based on the dessert cafe alone and then made it all the way to central Florida, where we are now, in time to visit Galaxy’s Edge, eat a cookie butter sundae and eat a s’mores sandwich, amongst other things, at Disney World before year’s end.

We’ve accomplished a lot this year. We’ve quadrupled our virtual income. We’ve seen tons of bucket list places and found several new places we’d consider moving to. We produced a show we are incredibly proud of.

We also hit a few snags along the way, as Jamie learned the importance of narrowing her focus as a VA and of putting excellent business management practices in place to make her as successful as she can be. Meanwhile, a ukulele course we’d hoped to finish in quarter one is still in process a year later. We’ve also had to let some of our projects, like this blog, slide sometimes to meet our deadlines. But we’ve learned a lot, grown a lot and truly accomplished a lot along the way.

Thank you to everyone who has taken lessons from us and hired us for work this year. Thank you for all of the generous gifts and for cheering us on along the way. We’ve passed the three year mark and while our path is still somewhat unclear, we are narrowing in on next steps as we prepare to settle somewhere, at least part-time, in the relatively near future.

As we gear up with ambitious plans for growth and fun in 2020, we thank you and wish you an incredible year. Happy New Year!

Ross and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie AdventureRoss and Jamie Adventure

_______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com.

Attending the Senior Olympics and Family in Albuquerque

| jamiefeinberg

We recently attended the Senior Olympics in Albuquerque as part of an epic week with family. It was an incredible gift (literally), staying in a nice hotel, spending time with family and getting to see Ross’ dad compete in the Senior Olympics!

Ross’ dad arrived on Tuesday, my birthday. After he checked in with Ross (while I switched all of our belongings with Ross’ dad because we’d been given the wrong rooms!), and after I got my free Starbucks birthday item, we all went out for a celebratory birthday dinner at El Cotorro. Craft tacos, my first ceviche and craft ice cream – perfect meal, right? We also got incredible margaritas – seriously, they might be my favorite I’ve had! Both the tacos and ice cream were outstanding, and this was our first glimpse at a neighborhood we are now seriously considering a move to in the future.Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

On Wednesday, Ross, Stephen (Ross’ dad) and I all took a trip to Sky City, the ancestral home of a Pueblo Indian tribe and now a museum and cultural center. It was one of those experiences that you’ll truly never forget. All of the people were warm and welcoming, and we learned so much about a culture we’d known so little about. Ross also got his first frybread (and a tasty stew) in the cafe here. Later that evening, we got to watch Stephen represent NH in the Parade of Athletes – very fun, though the sound was atrocious!Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Thursday was practice day for Stephen, was competing in bare bow, recurve archery. I got some work done during the day, taught a lesson and said hi to Ross’ mom Robin before all of met up with Ross’ aunt and uncle for dinner at Pueblo Harvest. Again, we had a stellar meal here, and they accommodated gluten-free really well. After we returned to El Cotorro for ice cream.Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Friday was the first of two days of competition for Stephen. Besides a break for me to go home and work for a client, we spent most of the day under a canopy on a blanket in the grass. After that, we went out to Restoration Pizza. Ross and I split an incredible salad and got a gluten-free pizza (and he shared with family too) and I think I got a hard cider and most of the family went with beer. (Later we grabbed frozen custard at Freddy’s.) Another delicious spot, thanks Ross for the recommendation!Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Saturday was the final day of the competition. Ross and I picked up a few food items to share and joined everyone for another day, followed by the awards ceremony for archery. Stephen placed fifth! We are so proud of all he’s accomplished in less than two years participating in the sport.

After a long day, we refreshed at the hotel before going to Sixty-Six Acres for outstanding veggie appetizers and, for me, shrimp and grits! We had tasty desserts too. Amazing meal and drinks. I had Palomas. Such a treat!Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Sunday Robin has to leave, but Ross spent the day at the zoo with everyone else while I worked. I did manage a quick nature walk. They had a great visit, and after we all met up at a tasty Mexican restaurant for dinner, drinks and dessert.Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Monday it was just three of us remaining, so Ross hung out with Dad and I until late afternoon, when we all took a gondola ride to the top of Sandia Peak before Mexican at their restaurant on-site.

Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureAlbuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Tuesday I took Stephen to the airport, packed us up and treated myself to Tia Blue’s for amazing blue corn waffles and Mexican veggies. After we checked out, Ross and I spent more time falling in love with Nob Hill, a sweet vintage-y hipster area in ABQ that we can’t get enough of. Finally I got more ice cream at El Cotorro and we headed home.

This may not have been a vacation for me, but it was the closest I’d had in a long time. We were so spoiled by family and truly loved getting to see everyone. Let’s do it again sometime!

Hope you enjoyed my diary of our week. Have an amazing week yourself!

Albuquerque, New Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

_______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com.

A Guide to Salinas Pueblo National Monument

| jamiefeinberg

Mountainair, New Mexico is really on the map for two reasons – the Sunflower Festival, which is an annual event in late August, and the Salinas Pueblo National Monument. The monument is unique in that it actually consists of three different ruins sites in addition to the Visitor’s Center, which is located downtown.

Ross and I had originally hoped to visit all the sites in one day. That’s absolutely possible, but we’d recommend you begin very early (think 8 or 9 am) and pack a lunch (all sites have nice picnic areas). We got a later start, so we managed 3 of the 4 locations in a day before the heat got to us.

On a subsequent afternoon, I visited the remaining location.

These ruins are really quite incredible. Do consider paying a couple of dollars for a visitor’s guide – otherwise it’s free to visit. The descriptions of the different rooms will really mean more with the guide and enhance your understanding of the history.

All sites have restrooms and a visitor’s center (though that has limited hours), and theoretically they all have water as well, but at least one wasn’t operational when I was there, so be sure to pack your own water just in case. The sites are quite spread out, so you will probably need water for each site.

Visitor’s Center

The Visitor’s Center is very well done, with a great introductory video (less than twenty minutes I believe) as well as a beautiful exhibit with an overview of the three sites and a great gift shop. We highly recommend you start your visit here. There’s also a market with a deli and a restaurant downtown if you need a bite to eat, and it’s a beautiful little area with great galleries.

Salinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Abo Ruins

There is a long, flat and beautiful (and hot!) walking trail around the cathedral and other ruins here. There are some more modern ruins in the mix too, from the late 19th century I believe.Salinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Quarai Mission

Here is where the Inquisition was stationed in the area – yikes, I know! The ruins are most intact here and the acoustics are amazing. There’s also a nice flat walking trail and what looked like a wonderful, though buggy, hiking trail for further exploration.Salinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Gran Quivera

This site seemed to be the center of commerce in the area. It’s an absolutely gorgeous walk, and I was really overcome with visions of what it used to be. The location is amazing, and it was once a three story village sometimes hosting thousands including their visitors! This was the only location without a full-time clergy on site.Salinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSalinas Pueblo National Monument, Mountainair, NM | Ross and Jamie Adventure

I hope this inspires you to visit as well! It’s only about 90 minutes from Albuquerque, depending on which site you’re going to. Well worth a day of adventuring, and if you’d rather take your time, Turner Inn has very affordable and nice motel rooms with a kitchen or kitchenette of some sort. We can also recommend all the local food, but especially the restaurant in Willard if it’s open – outstanding, affordable and so knowledgeable about gluten-free, even offering a dedicated fryer.

Thanks for reading! Have you ever visited ruins before?

_______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com.

Leaving Las Vegas, New Mexico

| jamiefeinberg

During our recent visits to Santa Fe and Taos we stayed in Las Vegas, New Mexico. During our stay, we played music at the KOA and dodged a lot of thunderstorms and high winds.

In the midst of lots of work, we made time for a bit of exploring, and I’m glad we did. Here are three places we can recommend in Las Vegas (the first one, not the famous one):

Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge – I enjoyed the lovely almost loop/easy walk for learning about wildlife and admiring it. There are some nice lookout spots and a bigger hike too. A gorgeous spot I definitely recommend! Plus, it’s free.

Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureLas Vegas National Wildlife Refuge, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Las Vegas Museum – I look forward to returning here for the Rough Rider exhibits. Looks super cool!

Storrie Lake State Park – Super beautiful. An affordable escape. Don’t miss at least a drive by.Storrie Lake, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureStorrie Lake, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureStorrie Lake, Las Vegas, NM | Ross and Jamie Adventure

Thanks for stopping by, and have a lovely day!

_______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com.

Leaving New Mexico

| jamiefeinberg

I have so much to catch you all up on…

But suffice to say that we’ve left our campground and are now on our way to Colorado.

In the last few weeks, we’ve watched the Senior Olympics, eaten far too much delicious food and fallen in love with a new city.

We are hot and tired and happy and blessed.

More to follow; but here are a few photos to tide you over. Have an amazing week, and thanks for reading!

New Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureNew Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureNew Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureNew Mexico | Ross and Jamie AdventureNew Mexico | Ross and Jamie Adventure

_______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com.

A Tea Party for My Birthday

| jamiefeinberg

Ross and I celebrated my birthday early with tea at St. James Tea Room in Albuquerque, NM. We enjoyed an absolutely incredible experience during our visit.

They do monthly themes, and for the month of June, Alice in Wonderland is their theme. This means they had absolutely stunning details throughout our intimate room and in the whole building to enjoy.

We took advantage of the opportunity to dress up, and I was in heaven with their gluten-free menu, which perfectly duplicates their original. Gluten-free croissants, flatbreads, cookies and scones – sign me up!

The tea comes in three courses with the food and each flavor was delicious. I went herbal; Ross went traditional.

Here are some photos from our amazing day!

St. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSt. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSt. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSt. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSt. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSt. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSt. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie AdventureSt. James Tea Room, Albuquerque, NM | Ross and Jamie Adventure

_______________________________

Supporting Our Blog

We are so thankful for your support of our blog and our careers! You can help by doing any or all of the following:

  • Purchase one of Ross’ albums!
  • Become a patron of our work!
  • Make purchases via our Amazon website links. There is no additional cost to you, and a portion of the proceeds can support our travels. Begin your Amazon search here.
  • Make other purchases using our affiliate links. Capital One 360 is one everyone can take advantage of to save money! Signing up with Dosh is a great way for everyone with a smartphone to support us, and we also have options for aspiring virtual assistants as well as occasional and full-time RVers to save money.
  • Listen to, subscribe and review our theater comedy podcast, Finishing The Season!
  • Subscribe to our blog, as well as perhaps InSearchOfAScoop.com, and recommend our work to your friends and family.
  • Take music or theater lessons (group or private) from us, either in person or via Skype at TinyVillageMusic.com.