Thursday, February 9, 2012

Because One Vacation is Never Enough

I have developed a personal tradition of taking myself and my youngest baby (who flies for free) on a little vacation before each pregnancy.  In this way, I have visited friends in New York, Texas, and Hawaii.  The trips never cost much more than the plane ticket, I get to see people that I miss and love, and I try to psyche myself up for the months of my life that I will soon give up.

That trip never really worked out this time around, as we were in San Francisco during the time that I might have gone.  There were no grandparents accessible to help with the older two kids, and Nick was far too busy to take on the mothering assignment.  But I found a new plan.

Every Christmas season, it seems that my old roommates all (OK, mostly all) get together for a night in Salt Lake City, as they are in town visiting in-laws or they themselves live nearby.  I have always wanted to go, but I never just "happen" to be in town like they do.  I really have no reason to be there.  So this year, I made them my reason and just went.  I hopped around, staying with the ones who still live in the area, and we spent one night together at the Grand America.

These girls mean so much to me.  Over our five years together, they became a part of who I am.  Being so involved with my own family now, I haven't quite discovered a way to become that close with people that I have met since.  I am not sure that it is even possible when you don't live together in the cramped quarters that we shared!

Some of my girls: Janae, Melinda, me, Amanda

A clock tower at BYU.  My, how campus has changed!

Me...  The big "Y" is on the mountain behind me, but good luck finding it in the picture.

Me, Michelle, Sara, Amanda, Janae

The surprise snow we received after our night at the Grand.  Our room is somewhere in this picture.

Thank you so much, girls, for taking the time away from family to make me laugh like I haven't laughed in nine years!  I miss you already.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a great time. You are always welcome, but only if you can make me laugh hard enough to nearly drop my baby. Poor Frankie will never be the same!

Michelle R. said...

Thanks for coming Elke! I had a great time myself. I know what you mean...I have wondered why my friendships now are not as meaningful as some of those with my roommates and old friends. I guess you need to share experiences like the M.C. Fan Club to make 'em last! Probably at our age too, people are friendly, but already have great friendships that they've built over their lifetimes as well. Anyway, thanks for being a great friend! Take care!

Our Ohana said...

That night was fabulous! Thanks for coming all the way down just to see us!!! I like your tradition of traveling too. I always want to do that, and then find excuses to put it off for an easier time. Of course, an easier time will never present itself, you have to just go for it! And you do! That's why I love you.