4-23 and 4-24 Santa Rosa NM

Our route, which we planned to avoid major highways, avoided practically everything. We went 175 miles between gas stations. A problem for the unawares, but not for us. The terrain transitioned from grazing and farming to flaat-out desert. But with a bright sun and temperature in the 70's, it was an enjoyable trip. Tumbleweeds. One pronghorn. Flat terrain except for one large valley/canyon with colorful cliffs and rock formations. Just after crossing into New Mexico we passed through a large wind farm, which turns out to be one of Nextera Energy's. That's ex Florida Power and Light, the largest wind producer in the U.S. and one of our favorite stocks. Btw the largest mfr of turbines is a Danish company, Vestas. I notice that on a windy day like today, the biggest turbines regulate themselves to 15-18 rpm. They are relatively quiet, kill fewer birds than cats do, and are currently the only economically viable alternative energy source. And i think they are beautiful.

Our destination was Lake Santa Rosa State Park, but it turned out to be desolate and, because of state covid regulations, unattended. So we went back and found a good quality campground in the town of Santa Rosa. Talking with other campers, the situation is about the same now at all the NM. A shame; generally we like state parks best. The campground in town even has a BBQ restaurant which delivered a fine dinner to our campsite. Wind howling. Overnight low 35.

A phone call from daughter M on Saturday morning gave us the worrisome news that grandson G has tested positive for covid. He feels pretty good so far.

Saturday morning was for chores. Laundry, grocery shopping, failing to find a Fed Ex box to send young G a blood oximeter. in the afternoon we drove a few miles to the near-ghost town of Puerto de Luna, along the Pecos River, with many old adobe buildings and ruins. The drive out there wound through canyons with colorful rock formations.

Gracie is adjusting well to camping. She has her own bed, but once we're awake she can join us.