It’s that time of year again. The morning air has that specific Jemez “bite,” the mesas are wearing their winter whites, and the village has slowed down to a pace that I think we all secretly look forward to.
For those of us who live and work here, February is a bit of a reset button. It’s when we get to actually sit down at the bar at Los Ojos and hear each other talk, or take a soak without the hustle of the high-season crowds. It’s a time for woodsmoke, good coffee, and catching up on the porch (if the sun is hitting it just right).
Here’s what’s on my radar for our community this month:
Keeping it Local
Let’s make an effort to support our village spots this month. Whether it’s grabbing a pizza at the Brewhouse, checking out the latest at the Fine Art Gallery, or picking up something unique at the Handmade shop, these weeks are when our local businesses appreciate your familiar faces the most.
The Caldera “Backyard”
If you haven’t been up the hill lately, you’re missing out. The Valles Caldera Winter Fest is coming up on February 21st. It’s always a great time, but honestly, even on a random Tuesday, there is nothing like the silence of the Preserve in mid-winter. If you need to clear your head, go stand in the middle of the valley for twenty minutes. It works better than any medicine I know.
A Little Help Among Neighbors
We all know that the shadows in the canyon are no joke this time of year. If you’ve got a neighbor who might be struggling with a frozen pipe or a slick driveway, give ’em a shout. That’s the Jemez way—we look out for our own when the temperature drops.
Safety First
Just a quick reminder for those commuting: SR4 can be a beauty and a beast in February. Black ice is real, especially in the shaded turns near the Soda Dam. Take it slow—the village isn’t going anywhere, and we’d rather you get home safe.
Love this!!
I would love to help my neighbors warm up their (wind)pipes doing karaoke Thursday nights 7-10pm at Los Ojos.
I will send up your way!