We arose at 4am... left at 4:15. Headed into Abq and took a park n' ride. The kids loved riding a bus; a rare treat for this homeschool family. The bus was all decked out in lights and decorations which added to the sense of fun.
We arrived in the freezing cold dark (who says Abq is warmer than the east mtns?) and walked around looking at the vendors. Finally braved the "long" lines and got hot chocolate and Breakfast Burritos. I'm going to capitalize them, because they sent me into spasms of joy. Apparently, they are a popular staple in this town and I've NEVER had one before! But I certainly will be having them again, I assure you.
We moseyed around and discovered that the Balloon Fiesta is like everything else in New Mexico: relaxed and not on a schedule. Our early arrival was all for naught. However, we had time to get our bearings and eat these delicious burritos. Before dawn, the balloons began to fill up, and pretty soon the action got hot and heavy! No lie.
It seems that they like the feel of filling up all the balloons in one tiny area of the field. It certainly adds drama! One of my favorite balloons had some truly lovely artwork on it... I thought it was an olive oil company. Nope, it was gin. Oh well. Just a few special shapes that morning; a pink elephant and the fish, Flounder, from The Little Mermaid. Rainbow Riders are available for giving rides, but they are a sweet fortune. So we watched the rich out-of-towners enjoy themselves. Maybe someday, but then maybe not. People have died...
It was a really great experience, and it even included funnel cake. The worst part was the freezing temps. It was so cold that moving your lips to talk was difficult. The kids whined about going home, and eventually the lines we thought had been long quadrupled. There is a ton of humanity cramped together. But it was all very exciting! And the kids loved the memory, which is often how it goes.
I love that you guys got photo bombed by the lady DRAPED in her red flannel blanket. Ok, not REALLY photo bombed, but close enough. She's definitely thinking about doing it- Anyway, looks COLD. I'm sure its more fun as a memory:) I've always wanted to go... heh heh about the gin balloon:)
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