Live and Learn New Mexico!

New Mexicans are all about honoring the past, appreciating the present, and dreaming to the future. We see beauty in the simple things, even in the ugly things.  Fences evoke a nostalgia in us that is hard to explain. Although they are meant to contain, maybe even imprison, fences out on homesteads give us a sense of peace and comfort. We like fences.  I was pleasantly surprised on this post to have more than my usual number of good photos to post. Of fences!  So many kinds -- wire and wood plank fences -- but my favorite is the picket fence made with wobbly wood posts.  I wish that I had a nifty fence embracing my homestead instead of the wire one that was cheap and quick to erect. One day, I hope to put up a picket fence. I will probably phlog about it. Until next time, peace.

What can I say about the many dilapidated barns and sheds scattered all over our state?  Like many New Mexicans, I see beauty in them, reminders of a simpler time. Not that it really was simpler... I assume that they were part of the farming lifestyle of rural New Mexico. A little research reveals that there are about 24,000 farms in NM, and 95% are family owned. But how many are still in operation? I also learned that the shape of a barn indicates its use...was it used to store grains, beans, etc.?  Or was it used for cattle or horses? I do see cattle on land that otherwise seems abandoned. Is someone checking on the cattle? Is the barn still being used?  The homes move, leaving behind the barns and sheds to tell the stories of New Mexico. Until next time... peace