Albuquerque: Hot Air Balloon Ride

These photos are only about a year old, but I am posting them in honor of the quickly approaching 2012 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.

The event really hits home that we are missing all of our friends.

Last year, I bought a groupon for a hot air balloon ride. It's the quintessential Albuquerque adventure that seems even more special now that we aren't living in ABQ anymore.

The timing is tricky. It's hard to find a babysitter at 5 in the morning. Plus, the launch is dependent upon the weather. Luckily, the timing worked out for my Mom to watch the kids while we was visiting last year.

Have I mentioned that I don't like heights? I was a bit afraid of this adventure. Mom was convinced we would be freezing, but it wasn't that cold.

Albuquerque never looked so green.

From the ground, it just looks brown (like this)!

It was a gorgeous morning. You don't go very high in the balloon.

It was fun to watch so many balloons being launched at the same time. 

The ride was very gentle. The only thing I wish is that we would have taken the kids along.  Charlie & Greta may have been too short to see over the basket though.

Mighty downtown ABQ.

To a great adventure!