Thanks to everyone for the recommendations -
First things first, The Monastery of Christ in the Desert may sit in the most beautiful spot I have ever seen in this country - my god is this area gorgeous! Located up a 14 mile road into the Canyon north of Abiquiu. It was simply spectacular. Hanging out with the monks was a blast, going to mass three times a day, all high masses where the monks sing at length (and they have recorded 5 CDs, so they know how to sing). Everyone should see this monastery at least once in their lifetime. What a place!
We also spent three days in Santa Fe, and just loved the city. Shopping was strangely expensive, even little nick knack earrings were selling for $40-$50 each. Who shops here?
The church was beautiful as well.
Where we visited: I am in the beer business, and wanted to touch base with what was going on in Santa Fe beer wise, so we hit a couple places -
2ND STREET BREWHOUSE: A terrific taproom, the beers were good, not great, but the bar is very cool, really nice people, and we had probably the best onion rings I have had in years. A very cool place.
MARBLE BREWING COMPANY: One of my very favorite American breweries has opened up a tasting room in Santa Fe. Food was nothing to write home about, stale chips etc, but the beers were divine. Their red ales are interplanetary.
COWGIRL BBQ: Believe it or not, this was our favorite restaurant stop. Sampled a few things, and just loved everything they served. A really fun place to people watch, great service.
LA CHOZA: Very cool place, felt like we were in Mexico. Not impressed with the food though, we tried a couple of their specialties, and they were marginal at best. Would go back for the ambiance though.
MARIA’S: Had to stop in for a couple of Margharitas. And as everyone says, they were really good. Their secret is the lemon juice the use as much as lime, and they are infinitely drinkable.
EL PARASOL: A little storefront fast-food restaurant recommended above, and it was fabulous! We had their special Chicken & Avocado tacos and wow, they were really, really good. We had lunch there twice as we were running around. What a local treasure.
Thanks again for everyone for your recommendations. New Mexico is as beautiful as advertised.