“Epic” Summer 2012 in NM

I just got back from my annual summer trip to visit family and friends.  I titled it “Epic” because Ben, the 5.5 year old, told me that the fireworks this year would be epic.  It amazes me how articulate they become and how they still have their childhood innocence.  It brings a smile to my face as I write about my nephews. 

Of course, I had a fabulous time with them.  Ben started counting down my arrival weeks before I landed.  He apparently woke up at 5am anticipating my arrival.  He’s still so sweet yet mischievous at the same time.  I have to dub him as the charismatic one. 

Then there is Ryan, the almost 10 year old.  He has gotten much taller since I saw him last in December.  He’s still the overly sensitive one but has grown a great deal of maturity.  We set up a Gmail account for him and I gave him my old camera so he would be able to send me photos of projects.  (We’re not quite up to Skyping yet but maybe next year.) 

My dad picked me up from the airport and we went to Sunflower to pick up things for my green drinks.  This is our usual routine and would be as close as we would get for bonding time with my dad.  He was cute because he asked me if I got taller or if I lost weight.  I think my bangs made me look taller and thinner? 

My mom is learning balance.  She didn’t say anything negative and didn’t over inquire about my life.  Life is good with her.

My brother-in-law started working day shift.  It was nice having him around rather than seeing him in passing. 

My brother is the guy with the big heart but super laid back.  We went hiking though we took one wrong turn and the boy scout in him had to whip out the flashlight.  I joked around that Twitter will read that Two Limary’s lost in mountains, one from Texas.  Okay, so I’m a little overly dramatic.  We were able to see homes on the trail.  He took me to the Flying Star on Paseo which is very nice and my first time there.

My sister is the only female running a household of males.  She loves her new job and can be as sassy as my mom.  She bought me a pedicure and it still looks good as I stare at them while I type.

 Then there are my friends.  I miss them dearly.  I was able to see Maria + her fam, Mary Ann, Alicia, Sue and Michelle.  I saw all the friends I wanted to see but one.  They warm my heart and I have a twinkle in my eye as I think of them.  Here is the break down:  I’ve known Maria and her family since seventh grade so over 20 years.  I’ve known Michelle since sixth grade though we became good friends in seventh grade, another over 20 years of friendship.  Michelle’s partner in crime is Justin and he’s so good to hang with us.  I’ve known him since senior year so just less than 20 years.  I also figured that he was the first person to ever get me drunk!  I’ve known Alicia, Sue and Mary Ann roughly freshman year so about 20 years.  Sue and I really became good friends sophomore in college when she moved back to ABQ.  We had some great laughs and great memories since then.

I was able to spend quality time with them.  I saw Maria and her family several days leading up to Cathy (her baby sister’s wedding.)  I was their adopted sister and I love her parents too.  We were able to hang at Flying Star which is one of my favorite places.  I miss and love all my friends dearly, even if they always make me feel guilty for leaving them.  It truly was an "epic" summer.