Vacation, Part I: Albuquerque Adventures

Get ready for a whole lotta posts about our vacation adventures! Our trip exceeded our expectations in every possible way. Colorado certainly hasn't seen the last of us! But first -- our lovely 24-hour trip to Albuquerque! Stopping in NM gave us a chance to break up the drive, eat real Mexican food, and (best of all) visit family.

The day started early, and we hit the road before 6AM.

Adventure dog!

A little Runner's World to get me excited about my marathon and a US atlas, courtesy of my local public library.

"Are we there yet?" It took Brooklyn a while to figure out the whole traveling thing this time around.

Darn good salsa and homemade chips! This was before they brought out his tamale and green chili quesadilla.

I may have found the trendiest juice bar in Albuquerque within an hour of our arrival. Loved visiting Squeezed!, and their matcha green smoothie was to die for! If you're like me and love you some Mexican food and green smoothies, Albuquerque is a good place to be!

And now the main attraction!

Aunt Sandy and Uncle Norm

 I had heard so much about these two and their extended family over the years. It was a joy to finally meet them and spend time learning about family history, their life in the desert, and memories they share with Ty.

The next morning we rose early to catch this beaut, and then hit the trail for an easy first hike at higher altitude.

Near our hotel in Old Town. An Albuquerque sunrise don't disappoint!

We visited the Polygraph National Monument, which was at about 5000 feet above sea level. We felt slightly out of breath, but we just took it nice and easy. Our hike was 2.3 miles, and it was the perfect distance for our first day. And the perfect way to let the Weimaraner burn some energy before another day in the car.

Afterward, we soaked up more time with Norm and Sandy before hitting the road to Colorado Springs. I loved this desert city, and I hope to return for a longer stay in the future!