The trees in New Mexico are now changing colors from the bright green to yellow
When the cool autumn mornings begin, it is time to start thinking about the annual tradition in New Mexico of celebrating the season with a Matanza. This has been a tradition in New Mexico for hundreds of years tracing back to Don Juan de Onate and calls for the butchering of an animal, most commonly a hog and celebrating the event with neighbors and friends.
Thanks to the Children's Cancer Fund and the donors of this event. We were proud to be the purchasers of the Matanza which was an auction item at their annual dinner.
Our family Matanza was celebrated this past Sunday. The morning preparations started at 6:00 am. For the souls wanting to brave the 45 degree temperature, the rewards were great. First, all of the fire pits were lit. The pigs, which were slaughtered yesterday, had all been cleaned and prepared for the event.
The ribs were placed in one large container to begin the several hour cooking process.
The chicharones were placed in another pot to begin their 4 hour cooking process.
The red chili was steaming as well.
After the hard work was underway, then it was time for a little bit of fun!
BREAKFAST!
The potatoes were fried to perfection!
Pancakes were made to order. We all had our choice between regular pancakes, or red chili pancakes. Both were just as delicious.
Another option was the traditional breakfast burrito.
Fried or scrambled eggs were made as well, thanks to the laying chickens' hard work.
Once our bellies were full, it was time to feed the chickens and let them out to play.
The tables were prepared for the noontime gathering.
For a special day, fresh flowers were called for. They will be planted in the yard for autumn coloring.
The homemade pecan pies were set out for the guests. The Matanza rule is that you can eat pecan pies any time of day. Even if you wanted it for breakfast.
Spanky, the musician, set up to sing for the group and was ready to great the guests.
Once everything was under control for the 150 guests expected, it was time for a rest so we would be fresh for the company to share in this time honored tradition.