Destination: Santa Fe, NM

In honor of my sister's graduation, me, Anna, and our Aunt Monika planned a girl's trip to Santa Fe, NM. My mom had been itching to have a "Grandma Camp" with Daniel since he's been at least one years old, so she was overjoyed to have him to herself for 5 days. Matt was needing some intense study time for his seminary courses, so some peace and quiet was welcomed for him. So we all had our separate vacations, Danny at Gma's, Matt with the house to himself, and me off to Santa Fe (personally, I think I had it the best).

Me and Anna - it was so fun to be able to have uninterrupted girl talk.

Monika and Anna - Our flight from Denver to Albuquerque was cancelled,
so we had a lovely layover in Denver for 8 hours. woo hoo!

The Inn and Spa at Loretto - This is where we stayed in Santa Fe.

Apparently in the city, there are strict zoning mandates that all homes and business must be adobe to fit the motif of the area. It was absolutely beautiful to see how all of the buildings blended into the landscape of the area.

Our hotel room - Love the decorating!

Our balcony view Santuario de Guadalupe - built in the late 1700's and had absolutely stunning architecture.

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi - Built in the late 1800's, this huge cathedral is dedicated to St. Francis who is known as the patron saint of animals, birds, the environment and is also remembered for his life of chosen poverty and charity.
Cafe Pasqual's - They served food inspired by the culinary traditions of New Mexico, Old Mexico and Asia. My meal at Cafe Pasqual's - I had to take a photo of it, because it was such a work of art. Even the name was exquisite: Grilled Chipotle Shrimp Tostadas with Queso Cotija, Spanish Rice, Avocado and Salsa Fresca
Snake in a bottle - As we were passing a construction site, we noticed that one of the workers had just captured a snake. So glad he caught that before we stumbled across it! :)

The Loretto Chapel - It was built in the late 1800's and was fashioned in a very gothic style. The Miraculous Staircase - This staircase inside the Loretto Chapel was built originally without any support beams. Years ago I had seen a movie called "The Staircase," which is based on the story of it. I highly recommend it!
Shopping on Canyon Rd. - This part of Santa Fe is so unique. Canyon Rd. is packed full of galleries/museums and jewelers. People from all over the world come here to enjoy and buy pieces of art.

One afternoon, we went and toured the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum which had just opend an exhibit that paired her paintings with the photography of Ansel Adams. Viewing that was definitely a highlight of the trip for me.

The Shed - A restaurant we went to a couple nights. It had great atmosphere and prices.
Most everything on the menu came with either a red or green chile sauce. Me being a wimp with "heat levels" it definitely was on the hot side!
The Spa - One afternoon, we all enjoyed the spa at the inn. It was my first time having any kind of spa treatment...and it was heavenly! I had a Vichy Shower.

Airplane photos - On our way back home, we were able to see the Rocky Mountains. Gorgeous!
Downtown Denver - My old home. I could pretty much pinpoint where I used to live and work from the airplane.
Anna by the crazy tram in the Denver airport. When the train comes in it plays music that sounds like Johnny Cash.

Driving home from the airport - After being gone for 5 days from my family, it was definitely wonderful to be going home to them. It was such a strange feeling to not have the normal mommy and household duties for almost a week. I came home rejuvenated and ready for the summer!