more road trip

I need to share some moments of our recent road trip - although more the destination than the trip. I can't post any pictures from it - we have no camera ... and Nick and Allison's is either not working or needs a new battery (did you get one yet?).

It was really great to have the opportunity to go visit my St. Louis kids though! I can't say enough how much we miss them and WISH THEY WOULD MOVE BACK! But seriously, it is so exciting to be a part of their life for a short time and really see what their days are like - what their environment is and how they interact in it. Each time we visit I come back and have visuals when I hear from them or they talk on their blog.

Nayeli and Karyna were both perfect and fun and sweet and how many adjectives can I use? We got to watch Karyna do her stomp dance in person and eat off her tray without hands. I got to read her a story and hold her and play and it was priceless. Nayeli and I played 'princess' and colored and bonded and talked and talked and talked. Yes, Nayeli can really talk - but it was great. We hit the park and watched Karyna go up and down the climber and slide repeatedly. Nayeli tried a few more playground toys. Bud added to the fun by going down a slide and sliding right off the end - he couldn't stop himself - and then entertained us by crawling many feet away to an object he could hold onto to get back up. Sorry Bud, but both Karyna and Nayeli were better sliders than you.

We got great food from Allison - anyone who wants a recipe for a great taco soup - or coffee cake - should contact her. Nick and I got one spell of time to chat when we went out for some fantastic Mexican food. (I am forcing myself to try more foods and of greater variety and their recommendation for this place was justified).

We got to visit Cameron and Brittany and new baby and listened to a lot of NERD chat about WOW from Nick and Cameron. Allison and I got only one chance to shop together - not enough time to do more - or do it right, but it was fun. Nayeli came along too and it was a true 'girls' moment.

Also, Bud initiated Nick's house by falling into or through his front window. Hope it is fixed soon as the boarded up window made it hard to enjoy this long missed sunshine.

All in all it was a great time and I hated to leave. WE hated to leave. Bud talked (and talked) about everything on the way home. Yes, it was sad and sort of weepy, but worth it. Can't wait until they make it up here in May.