As I wander through this enchanting grove, surrounded by the rustling leaves, earthy aromas of autumn fill the air, invigorating my senses. The scent of the forest floor, mingled with the cool breeze, evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder, making each moment a feast for the soul.
Aspen trucks and leaves – a superimposed creation.
I had to give it a shot! Not as spectacular for my driveway due to a haze of brush fire smoke as some previous comets, such as Comet Neowise a few years ago. But I had to give Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) a shot!
Malachi Tsoodlie at the Indian Market in Santa Fe made my day fifteen years ago and again recently when I printed the photo in black and white. Soon it will hang on my wall, and make my day for a third time.
Indian Market Santa Fe.
As always, thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
Greetings from New Mexico. This week, wild horses. For the last three weeks, I’ve been in the landscape of a Georgia O’Keeffe painting, exploring the areas around Abiquiu, and Ghost Ranch, NM, five times, and again tomorrow. I never tire of it, but it’s time for a change and to head out in search of wild horses, sandhill cranes, hawks, and elk. A change of scenery and subject is always good for the soul and the portfolio.
Wild horses (and one bull) on the plateau.
The following two images were taken in spring.
Sandhill Cranes, Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Sandhill Cranes coming in for a landing.
These two were trucking along foraging in the fields near Monte Vista NWR.
Sandhill Cranes.
Hawks are plentiful, and this time of year, in old snags and on power poles.
Red-tailed hawk…. I think.
Juvenile Golden Eagle and Sandhill Cranes.
I doubt it will snow on the peaks before next week, but horses are always fun to spot. Here’s a band on the plateau with Blanca Peak in Colorado.
On the plateau with Blanca Peak in Colorado.
Another band on the plateau.
As always, thanks for looking. Have a great week. G
If you’d like to read more, here’s a brief account of the area.
The Taos Volcanic Plateau and the San Luis Valley are remarkable landscapes in the southwestern United States, known for their unique geological features and diverse wildlife.
The Taos Volcanic Plateau, located in northern New Mexico, is a striking expanse formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. This plateau is characterized by its rugged terrain, with ancient lava flows, cinder cones, and volcanic peaks, such as Ute Mountain and San Antonio Mountain. The Rio Grande Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Rio Grande, slices through the plateau, providing a stunning natural spectacle and a vital habitat for various species.
Adjacent to the plateau, the San Luis Valley stretches across southern Colorado and northern New Mexico. This high-altitude valley is one of the largest in the world, flanked by the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountain ranges. Its vast, flat expanse is dotted with wetlands, grasslands, and desert shrublands, creating a mosaic of habitats that support a rich array of wildlife.
The wildlife in these regions is as diverse as the landscapes themselves. The Taos Volcanic Plateau and the San Luis Valley are home to numerous bird species, making them popular destinations for birdwatchers. The wetlands and riparian areas attract migratory birds such as sandhill cranes, which stop over in the valley during their long journeys. Raptors, including golden eagles and red-tailed hawks, soar above the open spaces, while songbirds flit among the shrubs and trees.
Mammals also thrive in these areas. Mule deer and elk roam the grasslands and forests, while smaller creatures like coyotes, foxes, and rabbits are common sights. The plateau and valley provide critical habitat for more elusive species as well, such as bobcats and mountain lions, which find refuge in the rugged terrain.
The Taos Volcanic Plateau and the San Luis Valley are not only geological and ecological treasures but also cultural and historical ones. Indigenous peoples have lived in these regions for thousands of years, and their deep connection to the land is evident in the rich cultural heritage that persists today.
Together, these landscapes offer a glimpse into the dynamic interplay of natural forces and the resilience of life in a challenging environment. They remind us of the importance of preserving such unique ecosystems for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Hello from New Mexico. The phrase “around the block” evokes more than just a simple jaunt; it symbolizes the day-long road trips we often embark upon, journeys that weave through the tapestry of landscapes and experiences, ultimately guiding us back to our point of origin. These excursions, though they may seem circular in nature, are rich with discovery and reflection. As we traverse winding roads and pass through quaint towns and sprawling vistas, we gather fragments of the world that resonate within us. Each sight and sound becomes a thread in the intricate fabric of our memories, reminding us of the home that resides within our hearts. No matter how far we wander, these journeys reaffirm the notion that home is not merely a destination, but a feeling we carry with us, a constant companion on the road of life.
There has been a lot of lightning this year. This morning we had sheet lightning, thunder, and hail. A lot of it.
Lightning, Arroyo Hondo, NM.
In the heart of mid-October 2007, we were graced with a scene that looked to have been painted by the hand of a local artist (photographer), capturing the essence of autumn in all its glory. The trees were ablaze with hues of crimson and gold, their leaves dancing in the crisp breeze like nature’s confetti. The mountains and town looked splendid, dressed in the first snowfall that year. In stark contrast, this year has offered us nothing of the sort… nada! I’m looking forward to any snow we get, we need the moisture.
Hello from New Mexico! This week, we’re experiencing some beautiful autumn colors. There’s plenty to enjoy, but I wanted to share a little gem I found this week in Valle Escondido, NM. The scenery out there is stunning, and I hope it’s just as beautiful where you are. I must admit, though, the season seems to be moving along quickly.
In the morning mists of Autumn.
Aspen trunks in the Valle Vidal, NM.
No photo tour to the San Luis Valley is complete without a stop at the old homestead, you know the one! With storm clouds building, but no precipitation yet, my client, Susan, and I stopped in here on a photo workshop to see what was brewing visually.
Homestead, San Luis Valley, Colorado.
A wide view of our valley and mountains.
San Cristobal Valley aspens and cottonwoods.
This week’s “Print of the Week”. taken the same week at the location above.
Fall in the San Cristobal Valley.
As always, thank you for looking. I hope you’re enjoying Autumn where you are. G
Greetings from New Mexico. I’m on the road with photo workshops this week. Here’s a glimpse of the Rio Grande, which, despite its name, isn’t quite as grand at the moment with Ute Mountain rising majestically from the Taos Plateau Volcanic Field. This photograph was taken in the morning on the second day of a five-day workshop. So far, so good.
The Rio Grande with Ute Mountain.
A drive on US 64 through Chama to Highway 17 over the Cumbres Pass revealed stunning fall color. I hope you are enjoying fall, autumn where you are.
Aspens, Highway 17, Colorado.
Aspens Colorado.
As always, thank you for looking and taking the time to comment. Have a great week. G
As fall approaches and temperatures begin to drop, Taos, New Mexico, gears up for its Fall Arts season, featuring numerous events throughout the period. This is a magical time in New Mexico, as the landscape embarks on a vibrant transformation with the sights, sounds, scents, and colors of autumn. Soon, the aspens and cottonwoods will drape the landscape in a golden cloak, shining brightly against the blue skies in the crisp light. The night skies are exceptionally clear at this time of year, with the moon, constellations, galaxies, and the Milky Way illuminating the night like few other places on Earth.
This morning, the chill in the air was enough to require an extra shirt. After a brief walk with the dogs, I settled into printing some images—old favorites, iconic classics, and new prints for our annual Taos Artists Combo #4.
If you happen to be in Taos during the weekend of September 12-14, 2025, it would be wonderful to see you at the Stables Gallery at the TCA, located at 133 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM.
Below is a selection of prints featured in the exhibition. I’m going through the archives alphabetically, hence this series from Arroyo Hondo.
Morning pasture.
Arroyo Hondo Tree.
Fall colors in Arroyo Hondo.
Moonrise with Horse.
Moon set, Arroyo Hondo, NM.
Print of the week and one more in the show.
Cottonwood Willows.
There’ll be many more images from all around northern New Mexico and southern Colorado.
As always, thanks for looking. I hope to see you in Taos. Have a great week. G
Greetings from New Mexico! This week, I’m focusing on the Milkweed plant. The images below were taken as part of an exhibit on various seeds. I photographed the plant across three seasons: spring, summer, and fall. This year, the plant is prolific in the neighborhood.
Milkweed Umbels.
The plant belongs to the genus Asclepias, a group of plants known for their unique properties and ecological importance, particularly for monarch butterflies.
Butterfly.
Plants are primarily perennial herbs, characterized by their milky latex-containing sap. They typically have complex flowers that are uniquely structured to facilitate pollination primarily by insects. The flowers are often clustered in umbels and can vary in color from pink and orange to green and white, depending on the species.
Monarch Butterfly.
Milkweed is famously known for its crucial role in the lifecycle of the monarch butterfly. Monarch caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed leaves, which contain toxic cardenolides. These compounds are sequestered by the caterpillars, providing them with a defense mechanism against predators even in their adult butterfly stage.
Seed pod opens.
Seed pod.
This particular pod birthed the whole seed group at once. I picked up the pod and it rolled out into my hand. I took it home. It stayed intact for me to photograph.
Seeds.
The silky floss of the milkweed seeds is buoyant and has been used historically for filling life jackets, as well as in insulation and textile manufacturing.
Seed pod opening.
Seed pod and floss.
Seeds in the breeze.
Seed.
Given its importance to the monarch butterfly, many conservation efforts focus on preserving and expanding milkweed habitats. Gardeners and conservationists often encourage planting native species of milkweed to aid in these efforts.
This one resembles my hair first thing in the morning.
Greetings from New Mexico! This week, I’m revisiting the topic of llama trekking in New Mexico. Approximately twelve years ago, and again five years ago, I was assigned by AAA to cover stories on llama trekking adventures in the state. The first assignment led me, along with a guide and clients, up the Columbine Trail. This trail winds through the mountains, surrounded by wildflowers and lush meadows of tall grass. The second story took us on a different journey down a steep canyon trail into the Rio Grande Gorge. There, we enjoyed a leisurely day that included a long lunch, lounging and relaxing in chairs, with time spent exploring the local flora, fauna, and ancient petroglyphs.
Some of the petroglyphs seen on the Rio Grande trip, mule deer and bighorn sheep.
Petroglyphs, Rio Grande Gorge.
Stay tuned for more on upcoming llama adventures.
A few nights ago, the moon was bright and, in some parts of the world, it occulted, passed in front of Antares, the brightest star in the constellation Scorpius.
In my region, what I observed was still fascinating, although I needed to take two separate photographs: one of the moon and another of the star Antares, which is named because it rivals the color of the planet Mars. However, Mars is no match for Antares in size; Antares is significantly larger.
Moon and Antares, from the deck, San Cristobal, NM.
