New Mexico--The Land of Enchantment

To attract and move deeply--that is, to enchant.  Long a reference to the beauty and culture of New Mexico, the phrase "Land of Enchantment" was first used in a book title by Lilian Whiting in 1906, however, its use did not focus solely on New Mexico but also covered Colorado, Arizona, and California. Seeking to develop automobile tourism in the early 1930s, New Mexico originally tried to market a slogan as the "Sunshine State," but gave it up in 1934 after Florida officially adopted that slogan. In 1935, the NM Department of Tourism used the phrase "Land of Enchantment" in one of its brochures. In 1941 the phrase was added to license plates, and it has been in common usage from the 1940s forward. "Land of Enchantment," however, was not officially adopted as the state nickname until 1999.

Just east of Albuquerque, the most populous city in New Mexico, lies the village of Tijeras. To the south, lies the Manzano Mountains, but today's journey will lead north  toward Cedar Crest, Sandia Crest, Golden, Madrid,  Cerrillos, and eventually Santa Fe along what is often referred to as the Turquoise Trail.  Before leaving Tijeras, our first stop would be the Rio Grande Portland Cement Plant, located just outside town to catch the day's first light and enjoy the full moon over the sprawling factory.  A hot cup of coffee on a below freezing morning was also a welcome find at a local gas station and gave us the inspiration to go stake out our sunrise!

I have much more to share with you from this day's journey.  If you have questions or comments along the way, or just need to stop for some fresh air and a handful of snow, let me know!!  CostaMesaPhotography@gmail.com