Jemez Mountains

Last weekend before surgery we wanted to do something fun because we knew we would be laying low for a while. Noelle was just getting over a week long fever and it seemed like Madeleine was heating up but we went for it anyway. New Mexico certainly is a desert but it's also an incredibly diverse place. We have so much exploring to do!!!

We drove up to the Jemez Mountains (pronounced Hay-Maas). It's a fun drive because how fast the landscape changes in about 50 miles. First you are in the middle of no where desert...then you hit incredible red rocks...then you are in the forest. The little town is really neat with several B&B's and a bath house from the 1800's.

We wanted to scout out some camping spots, the hot springs, and Jemez Falls.

We got out at a newly renovated campground and heard distant thunder. Aaron though we should get back because that weather would be here in no less than 5 minutes. I old him in nice terms to not be such a baby and assured him the second we felt a rain drop we'd be back in the car. Suddenly we heard what sounded like the earth shattering and down came the rain. We grabbed our kids and ran as fast as we could to the nearest bathroom overhang. Poor Noelle did not feel well and was already whining to go home (which she never, ever does) and this just sent her over the edge. After about 15 minutes it died down enough to run to the car.


Next we saw a sign for a lake and decided to check it out.
Beautiful!
We didn't make the hot springs or falls...too far of a walk for our sickie girls.


On our way back we stopped at check out Soda Falls.
(a hot spring that with the rock formations looks like foaming soda!)
and at a stand on the Reservation and bought some fry bread.

Such a great Saturday. Is there anything better than family days?