No Glowdeo for Working Stiffs

Today marked the last day of Balloon Fiesta here in Albuquerque. Since this is only my fourth year living here, I remain immune to the jaded sentiments of most long-timers and natives. With our enthusiasm strongly intact, tripods in hand and camera bags dangling, we piled in the car Friday night and battled the traffic to get to the balloon park for "Glowdeo." This is the time when all of the special shapes balloons light their burners after sunset and just, well... glow.

Unfortunately, for those of us with regular eight-to-five jobs, Glowdeo appears not to be a viable option. By the time I left work, battled the balloon traffic all the way home, grabbed hubby and cameras, and battled the traffic once again, it was 7:00 pm and one lone humpty dumpty balloon remained. The rest of the balloonists were packing up and heading out for margaritas. But fortunately for you, my readers, there was a stellar fireworks display that we did not miss.

After the fireworks display, we felt obligated to sample the state-fair-style food. Two green chile cheeseburgers and one frito pie later, we were happy, stuffed and ready to call it a night. Maybe next year, if I leave work after lunch, I might make it in time for the Glowdeo.

Why tripods are great and hand-held shots are not:

This one looks like a set of kidneys, ureters and bladder. Clearly I've been spending too much time at work.

And these are just plain pretty: