New Mexico!
We only had one thing planned for today. A full day activity where we would travel to Antonito, Colorado and board the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad for a nice relaxing journey into New Mexico. Unfortunately, New Mexico had other plans for us! Things were not off to a good start. We had been mistakenly double booked, twice, in seats that were apparently meant for a bus tour group! Thankfully, the conductor just took it upon himself to put us in the first car on the train which at the time was completely empty for us to use. A blessing in disguise, really. We were able to ride directly behind the locomotive! It was like a dream for the little kid in me. Most of the ride, I spent hanging out of the window, taking pictures, watching the locomotive, and hanging out on the forward platform directly behind the tender. I loved it. I will share some of it in the future, but with 2000+ photos, there’s no time to show it in the blog.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I didn’t abandon my lovely wife! She was more than happy taking it upon herself to watch for wildlife, photograph scenery, and just enjoy the ride. We spent plenty of time cuddling in the train car built for two, especially in the latter half of the journey where it rained and got extra chilly. It was an absolutely amazing experience, even if it started out less than perfect. The only really uncomfortable part was the joruney back by bus to Antonito, but it was relaxing nonetheless. Next time, if we are so lucky, I think we’d like to do the ride from Chama, NM to Antonito, CO.
-Tom
Getting ready to board! Check out Anna’s awesome new hat.
On board, a happy couple.
Arrival at Chama, in the chilly rain.