Breakfast at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

We began our first morning at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta with a spectacular breakfast buffet, holding coffee cups as much for warmth as for caffeine while we surveyed the enormous range of possibilities.

Two huge tables groaned under the weight of heated chafing dishes with scrambled eggs and biscuits and gravy; bread and pastries, cereal, and fresh melon. Another table offered serve- yourself hot and cold beverages.

At the omelet station, I requested shredded cheese, sliced mushrooms and a bit of ham. A woman in chef whites prepared my eggs, and I loaded up another plate with cantaloupe, crisp bacon, and a fluffy pancake. Early morning sunshine in a brilliant blue sky illuminated adjacent mountain peaks and the balloon field while we savored our meal. James pointed out the bar and the four of us retrieved a round of mimosas.

As we toasted our friendship, our vacation adventure, and a 25th wedding anniversary, balloons crossed the sky above our outdoor dining room and our cameras captured the moment forever.