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Time with the family was needed but the intensity of the desire didn’t surface until I was in their company. Christmas was wonderful. Michele had arranged a tiny, vintage RV as a “private suite.” It was parked outside their front door which made it seem like a cozy attachment to their home. Michele strung Christmas lights on the outside of the RV and made an outdoor seating area with a pathway lined with candy cane lights! Inside was a miniature Christmas Tree! I fell in love with this tiny “home away from home” and Michele’s welcoming touches stirred the emotions deeply. I slept wonderfully!

The time in California was laid back and computer free. Hanging with the family was easy and breezy. I felt for Eric…between working overtime and coming home to a fuller house, he was met with unexpected septic tank problems. Arggh! He maintained himself impressively…and it was very nice to sit together and unwind after such potentially trying times!

Brad was visiting from Utah so it was good to have him in the mix with Ethan and Cole. I love my grandsons – including their enormous amounts of energy! Can anyone say, “Guitar Hero”?! And let’s not forget our “Tech Deck” Mania! Just sitting and watching the boys was healing my lonely-for-them heart. I was drinking in their presence knowing that soon I would be back in my quiet New Mexico surroundings. I couldn’t get enough, and even now my eyes are tearing up.

When we lived only a few miles from each other I saw Michele and the boys once or twice a week for lunch or running errands together. We’d also have our occasional cook-outs and enjoy the Banas “garage band” and karaoke nights while warming ourselves by the Hobo Hottie. Spending a week living under the same roof was not something we’ve ever done. So, in one sense, that is not what any of us “miss.” We miss our close proximity, familiar routines and comfortable get-togethers. That being said, I can’t wait until our next time together…and the little vintage RV I now call the “Banas Bungalow.”