After seeing a special on the travel channel I couldn't resist going to see the international hot air balloon fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I was there for opening day, October 1, 2005. Although my hotel was less than 5 miles from the site - and I left at 5:30 am - the trip took 2 hours due to gridlock!!!! Most balloons were already aloft by then so they opened the gates and I entered without a ticket.

The balloon festival was breathtaking. I took advantage of the trip to the area to explore surrounding areas.

A few months later, in December, I returned for a Christmas holiday ski trip to Taos, this time staying at the base of the mountain at the Snakedance Inn. The weather didnot cooperate for skiing - only 8 trails were open so sightseeing became the default activity.