Albuquerque, NM

When you are famous for the best (in several categories) besides getting spoiled, you often have to pay a lot which many of you who have visited here know. However, as in most cities, there are “secret” and not so “secret” places just off the tourist trail that offer good food as well.

Yesterday I ended up eating out twice (the second time because an elder diabetic friend of mine wasn’t eating a good supper). After my afternoon swim I went with Sara to check out a newly completed building in a new shopping plaza. She wants me to start thinking about what would be a good venture for the building which is large. That’s another story. Afterwards, I remembered this newer sushi restaurant that I have never tried.

Listen up locals: this could be real convenient for you too. On St Francis and Zia, by GNC, down a ways from Albertson’s, is MAKI YAKI a Japanese grill restaurant. The interior is simple, and somehat small. Prices a little high, but you get a lot of food. But here is the great secret!: it’s perfect for take-out, catering, and PLATTERS: most platters are around $40.00. The highest is $69.50. Got a party or event of any size and have food for a lot of people: inexpensively. 24 hr notice preferred.

By the way the food is great.

While I was there I met a vet who had retired after nearly 30 years of service. He talked about sushi and related items was all he ate while stationed in Japan. He rated this food excellent. At 51, he has returned home to Cimmarron NM and now does a lot of volunteer service helping raise money for numerous charities including the Shrine hospital. Hats off to his dedicated work in that beautiful little town.

Outside after feeling quite full, I stopped and gave a homeless woman a dollar. She didn’t look too badly off: clean, cowboy boots, cowboy hat: nice outfit. But when she came over to the car, I was surprized at her limp and that she was older than I thought. Beside her sat in wheelchair a man brown skinned worn down. Both were pleased even for just a dollar. I had noticed a group of six about, perhaps finding a new oasis that hasn’t been panhandled for as long. Must mention this to Wes who’s job it is to provide casework for such folks. Seems like ther should be a better way for people to survive in America.

So I went to visit Pat, to give her an early birthday present. I had just found a great NEW CONSIGNMENT SHOP called the PINK HOUSE at the end of Don Diego. TOURISTS: this is a great find for you: local art, southwest designs and lots of gifts at very reasonable prices!

Pamela Page England once a first grade teacher here in Santa Fe has great networking ideas, and ways for local women to sell their treasures. Get the word out! 711 Don Diego Av Santa Fe NM. Also if you have stuff to sell and want to donate your share of the proceeds to your favorite charity, or one that she is working with: let her know! I’m going to bring some books that she can sell so proceeds go to HABITAT FOR HUMANITY.

By the way HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Santa Fe Group is going to LOUISIANA to do a building project. Great work Santa Fe!