I’m tagging along with Michael Foltz and Marissa Evans visiting feed suppliers in the North and South Valleys. Today’s the day to populate the backyard coop Foltz has been building for the past few months using mostly recycled wood and fittings. It’s a cozy roost to house seven or eight birds, with a run protected by chicken wire. A nice little goat-fence-style gate opens into the small enclosure.

When I lived in Chicago and biked around all winter, I learned firsthand how much a stiff drink can warm the cockles of your heart even on the coldest day. A shot of whiskey brings color to the cheeks, calms the chattering teeth and makes the ride back home through the slushy streets seem a little less daunting. Though winter in Albuquerque is a lot less traumatic, there are still moments when we need a warming draught to get ourselves through. Here are a few places we turn to for that tonic on a cold night.