Birthday, Santa Fe Style

Dry skin? Check. Stuffy nose? Check. Trouble sleeping? Check. Altitude headache? Check. Dried bushels of red chili peppers being sold on every corner? Check. Ah, it was good to be back in Santa Fe.

I've been visiting mom and dad here for 18 years but never brought a camera. All those years, and nary a picture. So now that I own a camera I made sure to bring it along. The timing was perfect because all the trees were blooming. And it was (nearly) Dad's birthday, so even more photo ops.

I think this is a great picture. The color! And, bonus points, Mom has her eyes open.

Mom and Dad, in front of "Priscilla's Tree"

On Friday, Mom and I took a walk on the east side of Santa Fe. After awhile I decided we should call it "The Walk of Homes We Almost Bought" (WoHaB) because it turns out that at one time or another Mom and Dad (well, maybe mostly Mom) had looked at nearly every home on the east side and had considered buying it. 

Midway through WoHaB we found ourselves in front of Johnnie's Cash Store, a small market that sells good tamales for just $2 each. We snagged two chicken and two pork tamales. I like spicy food but the pork was a little much. I preferred the chicken.

On Saturday Mom, Dad, and I went to the farmer's market. The temperature was cooler than on Friday, strong wind and mostly overcast. So I was glad the market was indoors.  

Signs I liked....

This one was actually at a flea market across the street. LOL:

Mom buys some lamb

Why buy homegrown vegetables when pastries are so much better for you?

Saturday night was Dad's birthday celebration. A few days earlier than the actual date, but who can argue with cake.

Went to the Chocolate Maven to let Dad pick out "his" birthday cake. He almost made a critical error in judgment. But we were able to subtly steer him away from the carrot cake to this chocolate buttermilk cake. Whew. Another birthday saved.

I know, I know, the color for this next one isn't wonderful, but it was indoors at night and I have a cheap camera and don't know anything about photography and besides, who am I, Ansel Adams.....

Happy Birthday World's Best Dad!