21 February 2015

Las Puertas de Santa Fe


Confession: I love Santa Fe. I don't think I could live there (too many people, too busy, not to mention the whole money thing) but my honey and I have visited four times now and always find lots to enjoy. One of my favorite things about The City Different: it's very walkable, in the older parts of town at least, which is also where the architecture and decor happen to be distinctive and interesting. Last weekend we were lucky enough to have 60+ degree (F) weather, perfect walking weather, and as I was photographing I found myself inspired by the doors...


I noted a Shabby Chic trend in the Canyon Road area, where I'd assume residents could well afford a full coat of paint but, of course, a well-engineered weathering effect creates a softer look.


Many old cottonwood trees line the city streets, making for deep golden splendor in autumn but also, in winter, a similarly (and more authentic) weathered effect. I love the old, sometimes ragged bark and strong wandering branches that, in this case (below), property owners felt were worthy of accommodation. Santa Fe certainly has its luxuries and pretenses but spots like these make it visually appealing and, for someone who doesn't get much time lately for creative pursuits, quite inspirational.



07 January 2015

Return


I just decided (like, 5 minutes ago) to start blogging again. I don't know what kept me away except extreme busyness, job stress, etc., but I've changed jobs and have settled in happily, and something is stirring to take and share photos again. Not that I haven't taken photos, but there hasn't been that intentionality that used to compel me to look closely and deeply at the world, and I miss that. So, Happy New Year - it's DANG cold here and last Friday's foot of snow hasn't melted yet, and what better antidote than happy sunflowers against that deep blue New Mexico sky? I'll post new photos soon; in the meantime, I'll be looking through the past 18 months' worth to see what might be worth sharing. I'm glad to be back.