The Corrales NM Backyard

Corrales, NM, is located on the north central edge of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Corrales is home to my daughter, son-in-law and two kids who reside on a hillside in the middle of a critter collection with spacious views. If you look to the north and east you have an unimpeded view of the Sandia Mountains and Sandia Peak. This mountain is very majestic with ever changing color and drama. It is called Sandia (Watermelon) Mountain because of the beautiful watermelon colors clothing it in the evenings.

Sandia Mountain Albuquerque

In the mornings I sit on the patio with a hot cup of coffee and enjoy the view of hot air balloons rising into the gorgeous atmosphere, balloon rides are a major attraction throughout the summer months. The home overlooks Balloon Park where Albuquerque hosts the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta the first two weeks of October each year. During this time the town swells in population as visitors from around the world come to view and compete in one of the world’s foremost balloon spectacles. Each morning hundreds of carefully crafted balloons in diverse shapes and colors are filled with hot air and released to the sky s painting a vivid canvas or photo op for all to enjoy.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

This same piece of dirt, Balloon Park, hosts the annual fireworks display on July 4th which is fast becoming a statewide attraction.

Albuquerque Fireworks

Within minutes of this flourishing area you will find yourself enthralled with an abundance of educational, cultural or entertainment venues. Smack in the middle of all this area has to offer lies the splendor of my kid’s back yard.

While I sit and indulge myself with a steaming cup of freshly ground coffee and a bowl of cereal filled with local fruits and berries, the parade of uninvited but always welcome critters here in Corrales, NM keeps me riveted to my chair. From bug to bunny, frog to finch the array of entertainment is continuous in this glorious little backyard.

The Back Yard in Corrales

Yesterday I was minding my own business when this vicious little critter popped up on the fence post and kept my attention for fifteen minutes or more before disappearing into the desert-scape to search for the next snack or meal.

Yoiung Roadrunner Corrales

View the slideshow to see a few of the great critters who have visited me in the kids backyard in the past few days. (Use HD and Full Screen for best results)

Comments are always welcome.