Isn't the food just fabulous in Albuquerque - well all of New Mexico, really. I am fortunate that I have visited New Mexico every year for the past 15 years or so - sometimes more than once. I just love the food, the architecture, the people, the scenery, just everything about it!!!

My mom was supposed to come with me on this trip to spend a few days with her neice here in Albuquerque - but when my cousin (her sister) in Oklahoma had surgery, then mom's neice had to go to take care of her - so my mom couldn't come on this trip. She still has her plane ticket though, so YAY! I'll get to come back in a few weeks to bring my mom. Lucky me!!!!! :)

I was in New Mexico when I was little. We went to Carlsbad Caverns. My whole family remembers that I got spanked in the entrance because I didn't want to put on my sweater! We didn't stay in NM though because we were visiting family in Odessa.

I've never thought much of the southwest, but I'm going to have to look into going there sometime. You make it sound so interesting.

So Diana you never thought much of the Southwest? Was it because you got a
spanking? LOL

A spanking huh? I got those too. And nobody called Child Welfare either!

Gayle,

Those pictures you posted are great. That was a good idea. I hope you really enjoyed it. You should be home by now.

Waiting for the details. What did you buy?

I had a great time - ate New Mexican food every meal. MMMMMMM! I bought some Christmas gifts - jewelry for my friends - I LOVE buying jewelry!!! I bought myself an amber/turquoise necklace. I also helped a dear friend buy some jewelry to replace what she had stolen this summer. We had a great time looking for things that were similar to what she had before.

I was able to see some friends who I see only one a year or so, at these types of conferences. One of my friend's husband has developed a very serious chronic illness and she is in the caregiver role as I have been for the last 5 years. She and I were able to spend some time together and talk about some things. Her husband has lost his job and cannot work, so I have been helping her with some things such as social security and va benefits. It is so hard, and I am so glad to be able to help her some.

The weather was glorious in Albuquerque. It was sunny and warm each day. The trees were just beginning to turn and the colors were gorgeous!

I got home yesterday and I am glad to have one day home before going back to work tomorrow!

Gayle, so glad you had a wonderful time and a much needed break!!

Glad you made it home safe and sound Gayle. You make it sound so lovely, I really wish I could see it someday.

I will most likely never get out of Indiana! Especailly now if I have to fly. The new xray thing at the Indianapolis Airport will let you be seen naked!! Not this girl...no way...I look bad enough with clothes on!

That must be it!!! I've blocked out all the bad memories!!! LOL


Gayle, I'm glad that you're back home. I bet that it was nice to visit with someone going through some of the same problems as you are concerning your husband's health. Sounds like you had a nice time and got to spend some well deserved time with some friends.