This morning, I was jolted out of sleep at the early morning hour of 5:00 a.m. so that I would have ample time to prepare for a highlight of the trip – a hot air balloon ride! After finding out the Albuquerque is the Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World, I was eager to experience it for myself. So, I was absolutely thrilled to receive an e-mail from Amy, a Music Matters Blog reader, asking if I was interested in joining her on the early morning excursion. Here are a few snapshots from the occasion:

Amy and I pose for a shot while the crew sets up the basket behind us.

The HUGE, 200,000+ cubic foot balloon is spread out on the ground to prepare for filling.

We’re off! What a gorgeous, calm morning for a ride! A definite must on any trip to Albuquerque.