New Mexico 2012

Me and the boys (well, the little boys) headed west to New Mexico to visit my family and friends there. It was so so good to be back! I was born and raised in Albuquerque and I think it is just a wonderful place. When I was young I didn't care for it much (I wanted to live in middle of New York City) but now that I am older, I realize what a gem it is. There are so many outdoor activities, you get all four seasons (and no humidity... my hair was awesome when I was there) and a really diverse culture. Maybe someday we can move back there? For now, we will just enjoy our visits.

At the beginning of our trip we spent time at the zoo with my dad and my friend Michelle. Above is a shot of Adam with my dad.

 Enjoying the zoo. And I have to say, this double stroller that we borrowed worked wonderfully! These two boys can not keep their hands to themselves, so sitting front and back helped a lot.

 My best friend Michelle lives in New Mexico with her great family.  They are a family with an incredible gift of hospitality... they include you in whatever they are doing. Michelle and my friendship is especially blessed because our two oldest children are only 3 week apart in age. Here is her daughter Mikayla (she is really a beautiful girl) and John... both not wanting a picture.

 Me and my parents. Notice the boys' rosy cheeks... they are chapped because of the cold and the dry weather.

 Paying a visit to my mom who works with the President of the University of New Mexico. Go Lobos!

 With Grandma

 At the park with Mikayla

 Michelle and her youngest daughter, Maddie. Poor Maddie took a beating from Adam. I guess because John picks on Adam a lot, Adam thought it would be proper to pick on someone smaller than him. We are working on this...

Out on a hike with my dad. It was a really nice place to hike, but not so kid friendly. We'll have to do it again when the kids get older.

We also went to the Natural History Museum, and my dad took John to a children's museum, on a tram ride to the top of the mountain (where John exclaimed, "Mommy the white stuff was snow!!) and out to eat. Great times, I can't wait to go back. We miss you New Mexico! Thanks Mom, Dad, and Michelle for the great trip.