La Luz Trail

In the morning, dad and I went to Borders and had a productive time at the coffee shop. It does seem though that coffee shops are not as plentiful or crowded as it is back in California. It would be hard to go to one when there are plenty of trails to be explored and mountains to climb.


We went to the base of Sandia Mountain, not far from the Tram, and hiked along the La Luz trail. It was an easy trail, slightly muddy and wet from the snow. A combination of cacti, low shrubs, and grasses decorated the landscape. As we climbed higher, the trees gradually became taller and it was more wooded. Although it was in the winter, this seemed to be a popular trail with many visitors. I wasn't quite used to the cold air, but look forward in finishing the route in a month or two, when the weather is warmer.

After, we had a delicious dinner at Sweet Tomatoes. I noticed how the Sweet Tomatoes here is different because there is more soups that have the New Mexican style, and there wasn't a rice dish. Saturday night seemed very popular and crowded, so the Cottonwood Mall area had a lot of activity going on.

I've been a little bored, and not sure what to do with my time. I'm sure when I start working I will be scrambling to find time to sleep. Just thinking about work and what lies ahead makes me nervous, but I suppose that's because I haven't started my first day of work yet. Tomorrow.. my first church to visit!

Settling in the Southwest

Today was the first day I moved into the home. Today, a lot of time was spent purchasing organizing bins, bath, and food items. My new furniture is a table which folds in half, a folding chair, and another clothing drawer for my seemingly endless amount of clothing. I was really happy with the price and the functionality... although I would love to have a matching furniture set the next thought scares me. If I had to move, I would not know what to do with things where I need more than one person to carry it, or it wouldn't fit in the car. However, I am exhausted from traveling and moving, and hope that I can stay here a long time before thinking about moving again.

In the past, it was so easy to pack and move, because I fit most of the necessary things in 2 bags. Since I don't know how long I would be here, I really wanted to bring the things I used often at home.

I've only been here a few days and I am already missing my home, my church, and my friends! I definitely feel spoiled because my dad has been helping me such as tagging along for shopping, showing me new outdoorsy places to explore, and setting up the wireless. We named the wireless network name as "Fremont" and the password is a big secret.

For this month, I am praying to quickly find a church community, some friends, and to work hard and improve quickly at my work. Although I do miss home, I quickly remember all the blessings that God has shown me and look forward to what the next month has in store for me.

Settling in New Mexico

The last two days have been an adventure. We left on Monday morning, 8AM, after loading everything in the trunk and back seat. Dad and I took turns driving through the California Valley, the Mojave Desert, Arizona, and finally New Mexico. As we climbed elevation there was snow on the ground. The only food I trusted was Subway, which I had two days in a row.

Today, we met up with Amber (my future landlady) and her daughter, Dustin. They were very friendly and in the process of remodeling and moving furniture out. I unloaded my luggage and we will stay a night near the Balloon Fiesta Park and closer to Sandia Peaks.

My room(s) are really lovely, and painted, and it is really everything I could ask for. I can't believe how quickly I found the place and really thank God for having everything work out. I feel comfortable with the ladies and the neighborhood.. and look forward to exploring more.

We did some exploring today, and literally 1 mile away from the home I am living there are the following: Costco, Albertson's, Smiths, Walmart, Target, Lowes, Kohls, 2 Fabric stores, innumerable eateries, and a mall! However, the neighborhood is very quiet and what is neat is that the bike trail starts just one street over!

Life here seems a bit different, and I know it will take some adjusting to from living in California. I can't wait to meet more people, find a church community, and learn as much as I can about work. I also look forward to exploring the scenic areas near here. On my future wish list, I would love to have a camera because I can't borrow my dad's camera as easily anymore. Of course, I have much saving to do since I may have some more expenses in the future.