10 Things I'll Miss about the Mesa

1. Big-time views. Minnesota just can't compete with the mountains and the sage-covered hills of northern New Mexico.

2. Neighbors. Rebecca and Jim, Maggie, Karen, and Deonne are the world's best neighbors. They're a funny, friendly, funky bunch who all know how to tell a good story.

3. The sky. Sunsets, stars, rainbows, lightning, thunderheads, moonrises...the drama never ends.

4. Mesa dogs. They're the true owners of the mesa, and if they like you they just might let your
car pass by on bumpy Mesa Sea Road.

5. The Taos Diet. Much tastier than the Atkins artery-clogger: tamales, enchiladas, fajitas, fish tacos, and Texas barbecue. Yum!

6. Morning yoga in the guest room. On my yoga DVD, Rodney Yee says, "As the morning sun warms the earth, these exercises will invigorate you to meet the day." Right on!

7. Coyotes and Cows. Howling and mooing just outside our bedroom window, the beasties add a little more mystery to the night.

8. Morning walks. Every morning we walk along Mesa Sea, up to the bizarre little round house and back, about 3 miles round-trip. We say hello to all the dogs along the way, and love the fresh, light air and mountain views.

9. Musical evenings. Jimmy Stadler's rock band and Michael Hearne's traditional western music (not too country!) are our favorites here, and sometimes we're lucky enough to catch flamenco at the Adobe Bar.

10. Taos Cow ice cream. My favorite flavor is cherry ristra, but they're all good!