Santa Fe Getaway 2026

Traditions have curious beginnings. At St. Patrick's, some parishioners have been making an annual trek to Santa Fe for the last 20 years. What draws them to this mecca? Superior tech was the original appeal. Back in December 2006, the then rector's wife got a very serious mammogram reading in Durango, and was told she couldn't be seen until after the New Year. Fr. Bob and Alice went to Salt Lake City for Christmas where they procured another mammogram showing that it was all normal.

Upon return to Pagosa, they heard from another friend about her conflicting results from the hospital here, so they decided on a trip to Santa Fe where the medical technology was more up to date. Other St. Patrick's ladies soon followed suit, and the annual "Boob Bus" was born.

This year's journey was from Feb. 10-12. On Tuesday afternoon, we all met up at the William's lovely condo in the heart of Santa Fe for wine and a warm welcome, before proceeding to the nearby Inn of the Governor's to check in.

On Wednesday, a mix of veterans and newcomers revisited their tried and true hot spots, traipsed round the plaza and visited the enchanting Santa Fe tourist venues, despite a map that could lead you astray in a heartbeat! Some hikes were ventured on trails close by.

We all met back at the Inn around noon and carpooled to the Chocolate Maven for lunch-mostly fresh and healthy, but with delectable chocolate deserts worth every penny of their corrupting richness. The Cowgirl restaurant that evening was full of " local color" and an easy walk from the hotel.

Thursday morning, we each took off (two remained for one more day) for a stop at Trader Joe's and perhaps a last minute visit to yet another second hand shop -an endeavor woven in and out of all the shopping excursions.

The best was realized when the mammograms came out clean. A perfect ending to a great getaway!