I'm Back!!!

I'm back folks! I was visiting my son in Denver for over three weeks. Son came home and then when he went back I hitched a ride and went with him. He's in the military and I don't get to visit him very often so it was quite a treat for me. However, this boy does not like to stop when driving. I started counting the Cracker Barrels that we passed. "That's number six, Aaron!" "What are you talking about, Mom?" "Oh, nothing........" Anyhoo, we drove the southern route from Northern California through Arizona and New Mexico and then on up to the Denver area. It was just beautiful and we were blessed with perfect weather. We weren't able to stop and visit, but I did wave when we passed the little town where Mary lives! Next visit I hope to be able to take the time to stop for a cup of tea.

This is what greeted us when we arrived. Beautiful snow! I'm a transplanted midwesterner so I was raised in the snow but don't get to actually "play" in it now. I learned a little secret about the snow in this area. It comes on like gang busters and then in two days it leaves! The best of both worlds.

Son's back yard.

He lives on the end of a court and because of the way the house faces, the snow stays on the front yard longer than anywhere else on the street.

Miss Jean pretending to be an outdoorsy person!

This is my new little buddy, Abby. She kept me company during the day when son went to work.

I would like to thank all the wonderful people at the Calvary Chapel Aurora church. They became instant friends and a real blessing to son and I. They epitomize what Christ called His church to be. I'll always consider them to be my home away from home church. Pastor Ed: You can be proud of your church family there.

I had a chance to fly home. However, since I hate to fly (something about falling all that distance to the ground just freaks me out) I decided to take Amtrak home. What a blast!!! I left Denver at 8:05 on the dot Saturday morning and arrived in Modesto at 6:30 p.m. the next evening. The route takes you through western Colorado, Utah, Nevada and Northern California. The scenery was glorious!!! I splurged and bought myself a little, I mean little, roomette. Just cozy enough for me, my books and magazines and camera. It was extremely relaxing. I thought I would read more but I kept looking out the window in case I missed something.

Meals are included in the fare and you sit family style. We had the BEST waiter who greeted you and always said, "Have a seat and introduce yourselves." He was so wonderful that he got lots of hugs when we left. Every car has a porter that is on duty all the time. I don't know when he sleeps! I find taking the train to be more expensive than flying, but I would recommend taking it for at least one direction of your trip.

I'm just getting myself organized from being gone and then with Thansgiving. Hopefully, now I'll be able to catch up with all my bloggy friends. I missed you all!!!!