Finale

So the plan was to ride bikes on some fun trail with a scenic view, but the trails were closed because of the fires:(

We were disappointed at first, but quickly discovered that the roads were just as scenic! We did a little in-town riding at the beginning and I love looking at the sculptures along Canyon road. I wish we had had more time to explore all of the wonderful galleries.

After four hours though, I was so done with this activity! I don’t know if it was the phlegm (sorry) in my lungs or two weeks off from spinning, but I felt like a cerdo gordo peddling up the hills of camino de cerdo gordo. But Matt wanted to keep going and the bike rentals were part of his birthday present, so we kept riding. After a nice shower and a stop for more cheese, I was ready to be sitting under the shade of the plaza trees, enjoying a breezy picnic.

We had stilton with cherries and a layered chunk with bleu and cheddar. Plus Three Sisters Syrah left over from the night before (did I mention this was one of the best reds I’ve ever had? We picked it up at a wine store in Sedona to enjoy in the condo rather than going out).

Ready for drinks on our last night:( We loved one of the concoctions at Coyote Cafe (that Matt had the night before) so much, we just had to go for it: a frozen margarita poured into a Dos Equis. I know, I know, but it is soo delightful. Our next stop was the famous bell tower at the Hotel La Fonda for sunset drinks.

For our last night, we wanted something really special. But all the restaurants in Santa Fe are really special! We finally decided on SantaCafe because of the charming courtyard and ever-changing menu.

I’m on a Zin kick now and got a really spicy one with dinner. But first, we had to try the shiitake and cactus spring rolls. They were awesome and we decided that cactus is a mix between a green bean and a green pepper.  This entree was the grand finale of the trip: I really didn’t think the food could get any better until I ordered this Chilean sea bass over sweet corn risotto with chile pesto (and a crispy green thing on top?)

Matt got a filet with chili mashed potatoes and some kind of sweet sauce and it was beyond phenomenal. Who knew the American southwest has the best food in the country?

We decided to go all out, and stop for port and dessert, but nothing was open! We spotted a woman (Pasqual?) closing the doors at Cafe Pasqual and she said we could come in for dessert. It actually worked out nicely because we had been debating eating there.  

We had a delicious tawny port and a nectarine and raspberry pie!! So fresh and only slightly sweet.    

We had been debating between this and the strawberry shortcake, so when we finished the pie and I felt sad, I just told the waiter we’d liked another dessert.So we had the shortcake (biscuit) too!! Soo decadent, but such a perfect last night.             

But now we get to have fun with a million college friends in Houston, so the excitement continues. I’m so spoiled right now!!!