Miracle Mindset

Written By Ken Hulsey With Halloween quickly approaching, I wanted to share a little ghost story from my past. Back in the 1980s, I lived in Albuquerque, in a subdivision known as Heritage Hills. When my family moved in during the late 1970s, this area was brand new. In fact, these were the only homes located on the furthest north side of the city. Beyond our subdivision, there was nothing but open desert, with dirt roads and a few scattered structures. This area remained undeveloped for quite some time. 

EXXONMOBIL ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA October 3 - 11 For nine days in October, the Albuquerque skies are colorfully painted as more than 500 balloons lift off from Balloon Fiesta Park. Plan now to attend the ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® and be part of the world’s largest hot-air balloon festival. Walk among the moving picture show of hot-air balloons lifting gently through the crisp, fall air. If you're more of a night owl, experience the magic of a balloon glow as they light up the night sky. No matter what event you choose to attend, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta will make you feel like you're in a dream. Experience a unique kind of “traffic jam” in the skies during the Route 66 Centennial at the biggest ballooning event in the world.

Celebrate Independence Day at Freedom 4th in Albuquerque! From the City of Albuquerque  This year, the City of Albuquerque invites you to join a spectacular celebration of America’s 250th anniversary of independence at Balloon Fiesta Park. This family-friendly event promises an unforgettable day packed with music, food, and festivities. So, gather your loved ones and prepare for a joyful evening under the stars!

Discovering Albuquerque’s Revitalized Route 66 Motels From: Visit Albuquerque If you’re looking for a nostalgic travel experience with a modern twist, consider booking a night at one of Albuquerque’s revitalized Route 66 motels. This iconic roadway has long been synonymous with American road trips, and its heart beats through the vibrant hospitality scene of Albuquerque . By the 1960s, Central Avenue, which traces the historic path of Route 66 , was lined with over 100 motels, many of which have been transformed into stylish hospitality options that pay homage to their storied past while providing modern amenities.

  Monroe's: A Taste of New Mexico in Albuquerque Written By Ken Hulsey For fans of New Mexican cuisine, few places stir excitement quite like Monroe's in Albuquerque . This restaurant has stood the test of time, delighting locals and visitors alike with its rich, authentic flavors that capture the essence of New Mexico's culinary heritage. My fond memories of Monroe's linger from the time I lived in Albuquerque, and each visit to this cherished establishment felt like a reunion with an old friend.

 Discover the Flavors of New Mexico at Garduno's For fans of Mexican food, Albuquerque is a treasure trove of tantalizing flavors and authentic cuisine. Yet, amidst a myriad of restaurants, few places hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Garduno's is one such gem that stands out for its rich offerings of New Mexican cuisine.

 Story By Ken Hulsey As a rational person, I can explain away most of the strange occurrences I experienced during my teenage years in Albuquerque. However, one incident still puzzles me to this day. In August 1980, my best friend, my family, and I witnessed a large, glowing green orb hovering motionless in the night sky directly over the city for over an hour before it disappeared.

Nestled in an unassuming strip mall along Wyoming Boulevard, just north of Constitution Avenue, Eloy's Mexican Restaurant is one of those hidden treasures that every Albuquerque local cherishes. From the outside, it might not catch your eye, but once you step inside, you’re enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. The delightful aromas wafting through the air—from rich, simmering chile to the tempting scent of perfectly grilled meats—immediately ignite fond memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations shared over delicious meals. 

If you grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico , during the 60s, 70s, or 80s, you likely have fond memories of Toys By Roy. The store was easily recognizable thanks to the large rocking horse logo on its front. In 1961, Roy Ater opened his first Toys By Roy in the brand-new Winrock Center Mall, which was marketed as ‘the largest in the Southwest.’ Ater’s toy store quickly became one of the mall's first and most successful retailers. Over the following years, Toys By Roy expanded into a successful franchise with 34 locations across 9 states.

The Unseen Connections: How Railroads Shaped Albuquerque's Spirit Before Route 66 For railroad history buffs, the evolution of cities often reveals a story of interconnectedness, especially in the American Southwest, where the rise of the railroad preceded the fame of highways like Route 66 . Before it became a symbol of adventure and the freedom of the open road, Albuquerque was transformed by iron rails that forged the city’s economic and cultural identity.

  Experience the Final Gathering of Nations Powwow: “The Last Dance” Mark your calendars for April 24-25, 2026, as Albuquerque, New Mexico, prepares to host the finale of a remarkable cultural tradition—the Gathering of Nations Powwow. Celebrating its 40-plus-year history, this event has evolved into the largest Native American powwow across the globe, attracting thousands of attendees eager to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture.

It might seem unbelievable, but the breathtaking Sandia Mountains just outside Albuquerque, New Mexico, can whisk you away to a landscape reminiscent of the Swiss Alps! Our family's journey began in 1978 when we traded our flat, small farming town in northern Texas (Vernon) for the awe-inspiring beauty of this mountainous terrain. From the very first moment I laid eyes on those towering peaks, I was captivated. Each day, stepping outside and soaking in those majestic mountains filled my heart with a longing for the rugged beauty of the West and Southwest. The gentle rustle of the wind weaving through the pine trees is a melody unlike any other. 

The quest for the greatest hamburger in the United States has been a subject of endless debate for decades. Truck drivers and culinary experts alike have weighed in with their personal favorites, ranging from humble mom-and-pop diners to massive fast-food chains. The reasons behind these preferences are scrutinized in minute detail, from the quality of the beef to the type of condiments used. Countless hungry patrons have sung the praises of an exceptional burger.

Albuquerque, New Mexico is truly one of the most fascinating and exotic big cities in America. Nestled in the high desert at the base of the soaring Sandia Mountains, Albuquerque is a place where ancient Native American culture, Spanish colonial history, the rugged Wild West, and cutting-edge modernism all converge. The city's diverse cultural tapestry is on vivid display, from the colorful Old Town plaza with its 18th century adobe buildings to the trendy shops and eateries of Nob Hill. Albuquerque's food scene is the stuff of legend, with its tongue-tingling New Mexican cuisine laden with green chiles and slow-cooked carne adovada. The city's Native American roots run deep, evidenced in places like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Albuquerque is also a nature-lover's paradise, with the mighty Rio Grande snaking through town and the Sandia Peak Tramway whisking you to an alpine wonderland over 10,000 feet high. And every October, the Albuquerque International Balloon...