There's this tradition I've always longed to be a part of come late October.

Every year, since my mom turned forty, I've watched her jet off to Seattle for a long weekend with Grandma, where they spend their days drinking, eating, and lots of shopping.

And I remember my mom always telling me: When you turn twenty-one....

Well, I'm past that age and available to go, so this year, I got to be a part of the tradition.

Instead of Seattle, however, we switched things up and went down to the southwestern state of New Mexico, where friends would meet us in Santa Fe, the oldest state capital city in the United States.

It was my first time in such an area and I have to say, I adored it.

It's simply marvelous down there. The color, the food, the culture, the history.

A long weekend just wasn't enough time to check out such a rich area, and I guess it just means I'll have to come back and explore some more.

What I do know is that we had a lot of fun. There were a lot of laughs, lots of steps walked, lots of shopping bags filled, and lots of weight gained by all that fabulous food.

Thank you Santa Fe, for our lovely stay for Mom's birthday.

Day 1 highlights: arrival into Santa Fe, walking the Plaza, drinks at the Bell Tower Bar, and dinner at La Plazuela..

Day 2 highlights: breakfast at Café Pasqual's, shopping, more shopping, trying on the most luxurious vintage fur coat, and celebratory birthday dinner (with lots of alcohol).

Day 3 highlights: breakfast at Harry's, the Santa Fe Farmer's & Flea Market, drinking kick ass coffee, buying beetle wing earrings, and crying to Goodbye Christopher Robin.

Day 4 highlights: breakfast at Tesuque (breakfast is always a highlight), walking the chili Canyon Road, catching up with a friend, and consumption of multiple margarhitas.