Do I *have* to like pastels, howling coyote pendants and indian feathers if I want to move to New Mexico? (Columbus: real estate, house)

[UsernameBen]

I'm intrigued by the state, the desert, the emptiness, the dusty bustling towns of 500k and also the (perceived) affordable, moderately liberal lifestyle of New Mexico.

But I know I *really* do not like pastels, or howling coyote stencils, or indian feathers, or really even dream catchers all that much.

No offense if you do like or own these things....more power to ya!...feel free to defend your purchases if you want...but my question is: Are they an integral part of the culture that I would be moving into and (therefore) things I should accept if I am going to be moving there?

Or are they just tired cliches that are only used in travel brochures & real estate videos?

Thanks!


EDIT: BTW this is my 1st post, but I've been watching from the sidelines for a while!
I love this site!

[Charles22]

Not a big fan of wolves-in-space art?

[karmathecat]

"Are they an integral part of the culture that I would be moving into and (therefore) things I should accept if I am going to be moving there?"

Yes, the state has inspectors that will come to your home and make sure you have the minimum amount of Southwest style chotckes in your home, slapping a huge fine on you if you do not.

Actually, I don't know ANYONE who has their home decorated that way. Most people I know have the odd ristra or small NA/SW piece around the house, but I have yet to be in a pastel, howling coyote, Indian feathered, dreamcatcher home yet.

[AbqTeacher]

Don't forget bolo ties. Everyone must wear a bolo tie.

[GregW]

I have not moved there yet. I will decorate my adobe house in the "pastel, howling coyote, Indian feathered, dreamcatcher" style just to be sarcastic. Adding an almost dead '62 Chevy pick up truck to the back yard will complete the scene.

[karmathecat]

"Adding an almost dead '62 Chevy pick up truck to the back yard will complete the scene."

Front yard, goes in the front yard. Nice to also have an old stove ( or washer, dryer, any large non-working appliance ) next to it, with a weathered "FREE" sign duct taped to it. Extra points for being able to misspell "FREE."

[UsernameBen]

Another question: Are the inhabitants of New Mexico as sarcastic as people say?

[Mike Horrell]

Don't forget the "Columbus was a Terrorist" bumper sticker

[UsernameBen]

(And Green Chile, sheesh you'd think a New Mexican actually invented the sauce or something the way people carry on about it.)

Hello, is there anyone out there?
Anyone care to give a serious answer, please?

Thank you.

[AbqTeacher]

What is this "sarcasm" you speak of?