My sister and I returned from Phoenix about 5 pm yesterday. It was a good trip for us. The only hiccup was realizing on the shuttle ride from the parking lot to the terminal that I left my phone in my car. I had no time to go back for it so I was without a phone from Wednesday morning until Saturday evening. Without the phone I had no ability to call, text message or check email. I think I handled it well. But, I did get some ribbing from my siblings and it provided many opportunities for bantering and teasing. All good stuff!
We also had overcast skies and some rain while there so it was much cooler than past visits. We have made it an annual thing to get together every Thanksgiving, or at least the week before. During this family gathering time we pass around a wood Santa carved by all of us which you can read about here. This is my year to have Santa at my place. And, of course there was an abundance of wonderful food to go along with conversation and laughter.
I loved seeing and visiting with my dad. He is still as sharp as a tack for being 96 but I could see the physical aging of the body. He is slow and unstable getting up and getting around, needing to use a walker or a cane. He tires quickly due to the congestive heart issues and the edema. However, I would expect these things with anyone his age. We also never know when will be the last time all of us will be together. It makes each visit and the family time even more precious.
7 Comments
Earl
Welcome back! I’m glad you had a good trip and visit. None of us really know when the last of anything will be, do we? Great shot of the family (the Gang), but were you too tall for the photo group, Monte, so they made you take off your shoes? Haha!
Monte Stevens
It is always good to return home even as this trip warmed my heart and was very emotional for me. And my Smartwool socks I use as slippers in any season. I used to be around 5’ 9” but much closer to 5’ 7″ now. I blame it on gravity and not my bad back.
Earl
When I joined the Air Force, I was 6′ 2″ and am only 6′ now so I certainly understand about gravity.
Bonnie
What a great looking family, Monte! So glad you had a lovely time. Personally, I find it much more memorable at these family gatherings if something goes slightly awry! (Like the year the women in my family all assumed one of the other women was bringing the turkey). Anyway, glad you were able to get your phone back! And I believe Santa would appreciate being photographed at all your usual haunts!
Monte Stevens
Yes, those things that go awry make great stories! I had a similar story for a Mexican potluck, everyone brought beans. LOL
Joan Heiman
A few days break from your phone! Yay! You got to have an (enforced) spiritual retreat!
Glad you were able to have another good family get together!
Monte Stevens
Yes, it was nice to have the break. There were no interruptions and I didn’t pick up the phone to try and find an answer to some question that really was not important. More lessons on living in mystery! Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.