Here’s an introduction to my home state and my alma mater, the University of Oklahoma.
Taken together, Oklahoma Sooners reflects our state’s American Indian and pioneer heritage and, today, symbolizes a special university spirit that values resilience and perseverance as well as the inclusivity that unites all who are a part of the University of Oklahoma family.
A SOONER COVERED WAGON , plaque displayed at the Oklahoma Memorial Union on the University of Oklahoma campus
The artist-Tom K Simms
Mr. Simms graduated from the school of fine arts at the University of Oklahoma, majoring in sculpture and painting. He was a star performer on the Sooner track team, and set the Big Six record in the high jump and high hurdles. He also ran the mile, low hurdles and did the broad jump.
He was selected as one of the most promising students in the university, to do a sculptural design for a gateway presented by his class to the university. (info not confirmed, source newspapers.com)
This post describes a visit to Madrid, New Mexico, while attending a unique wilderness medicine conference in Santa Fe. It highlights the area’s artistic vibe, mentioning that the film “Wild Hogs” was shot there. Additionally, it shares an enjoyable sunset horseback riding experience nearby.
updated November 15, 2025
My husband and I were in Santa Fe, where I attended a medical conference on wilderness medicine. I don’t practice in the wilderness, but this conference offers fascinating lectures on topics not covered at any other event.
No other medical conference I’ve attended teaches the management of spider, tick, snake,bear, and shark bites, by speakers who have climbed Mount Everest and hiked Antarctica, among other exotic places.
Wild Hogs-the movie
As with Santa Fe and Taos, art rules in Madrid. Walking around, you may feel like you are on a movie set- and in a way, you are.
Veteran actors John Travolta, Martin Lawrence, William H. Macy, and Tim Allen portray middle-aged men who take a motorcycle trip through New Mexico to California. Along the way they find adventure they weren’t expecting, including encountering a motorcycle gang made up of midlife men who don’t like outsiders. But it’s all in fun and good for a lot of laughs.
Nestled on the northeast side of the Sandia Mountains is Madrid, New Mexico. Sitting midway along The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, Madrid is categorized as a ghost town even though this small village of about 400 residents is bustling during the summer months with shops, restaurants, and galleries catering to the many visitors along this ancient path.
We enjoyed a sunset horseback ride while visiting Santa Fe and Taos in New Mexico.
Exploring the HEART of health in New Mexico
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I’d love for you to follow this blog. I share information and inspiration to help you transform challenges into opportunities for learning and growth.
Add your name to the subscribe box to be notified of new posts by email. Click the link to read the post and browse other content. It’s that simple. No spam.
I enjoy seeing who is new to Watercress Words. When you subscribe, I will visit your blog or website. Thanks and see you next time.
Taos is an art mecca both within the town and at the Taos Pueblo, which is also a must see for those interested in Native American history and culture. At the pueblo, tribe members display and sell handmade arts and crafts.
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watercress words by Dr Aletha 