South of the Border

Over the weekend, we were extremely blessed by a quick trip to Magdalena. It's been almost a year since Jonathan and I were there (when Eddie was just the size of a grape, or something like that), and I've been itching to go. Mostly to share Eddie with those people that have meant so much to me and whom God has used to shape who I am today. Eddie brings me so much joy, and I wanted to spread it around! And our joy-buckets were filled too!

 Keyla shares her kitten. Eddie thought that was pretty cool.

 Tia Jacks.

 Tia Yaneli did a great job spoiling Eddie!

And, as always, Pau's enthusiasm is so catching!

 Gabby spent a few months living with us right before we moved to Magdalena.

So crazy that just a few years later we're meeting up while I'm back in town 

to introduce our little ones to each other.

 I'm not sure who was more excited, Eddie or Pau.

The picture doesn't do justice.

As always, we were encouraged and challenged. I faced a little apprehension as we began the 10-hour drive Thursday evening. It's easy enough to be excited about seeing friends that feel a whole lot more like family, good food, and fun, but realistically I had to prepare myself for how things have changed, people have changed, since I lived there and was a part of that community. In some way, I'll always belong there, but in other ways, I don't belong there anymore. Which is strange. And bittersweet. I can't expect to be able to "pick up where we left off" with everyone, although, praise God, that happened in some cases. But I wanted to embrace whatever God gave during the trip. And there were some sweet, sweet times.

And we made some wonderful memories with my parents too, since they were game enough to not only come along, but do most of the driving which included all night Sunday for the return trip.

 First stop: Cafe Sed. Mmm, nutella frappe!

 Riding on Dad's shoulders.

 My mom and Queen Victoria.

Old friends and new friends.

Tori warmed up to Eddie in a hurry. He wasn't so sure how to react to her affectionate squeezes! She wanted to hold him, hug him, and he sometimes looked like he just wanted to escape! 

 Antonio. Now there's a big dog. 

I was surprised Eddie wasn't more intimidated by him.

 

Oh, and Uncle Nate was there!

Such a good time! And it was easier saying goodbye knowing we'll be back soon! We have another weekend trip planned in July for a wedding! For now, it's good to be home. We saw my parents off this afternoon and now we're hoping for a quick transition back to "normal" life. As I type, Eddie is rolling around the floor complaining. Why? Hmmm...missing Grandpa and Grandma already? That's my guess. I sort of feel like joining him!