New Mexico

Trent's sister and her family recently moved from Massachusetts to New Mexico and we have been hoping to be able to make a road trip to see them ever since. Trent hasn't seen Dionne in about 5 years and was way overdue for a reunion with her. And I have only seen their family a couple times since we've been married so I've been so eager to get to know them. After a 7-hour drive to the mountains of New Mexico we arrived at their home, sitting atop snow covered mountains on about 10 acres! They are in the process of renovating their home and Dionne had prepared us to come ready for "a step above camping". We found our accommodations quite comfy and we so appreciative that the Squires would host us in the middle of their major home projects! 

We arrived late with tired kids and got them settled quickly and then enjoyed a little visiting with Matt and Dionne. The kids woke up early very excited for cousin playtime. And we couldn't wait to see their place and surroundings. 

While the adults worked on house projects the kids PLAYED. Their imaginations seemed to combine quite well and they all hit it off nearly immediately.

They had the most amazing dress up selection that was played with a whole lot. Not too many princess items (there are 5 boys and 1 girl) but that didn't stop these boy cousins from accommodating Heidi. Cade was so happy to walk this garbage bag princess around! And Heidi was pleased as punch with her "dress". 

Spencer took Nathan on a safari, complete with hats and guns and I guess he was the horse?

Nathan was in heaven. 

After watching these cousins have such a fun time I determined that good cousin bonding is worth and drive or journey. I just loved watching them get to know each other. 

After work projects finished on Saturday night and little ones were in bed, we got to go out on a double date. Sonic Drive-thru and Wal-Mart were enjoyed by all. 

Nathan opted to sleep in this cute play house. 

All of the after church hours on Sunday were spent looking mostly like this:

 And Uncle Matt leading a game of "Don't Eat Pete"

These are a little out of order but taking the time to switch them isn't sounding fun so here they are. We tromped around outside on their property on Saturday afternoon. They are removed from pollution and noise and it was so pristine and gorgeous. A WONDERLAND for children. 

Superman had plenty of room to fly around! 

Cade coming up with some imaginary game:

 Cowboy Drew keeping watch up high.

A taste of New Mexico beauty...

 Spencer showing us how his Mentos geyser worked. These boys sure know how to have fun!

The boys, Trent and Matt enjoyed a rousing round of Settlers (although everyone looks half asleep I am quite sure they were having fun?)

And while they played the moms enjoyed some quiet chatting time! 

Monday morning we headed back to AZ. We were given a 3-gun (airsoft!) salute as we left their home. We felt pretty special!

Thank you for letting us come visit, Squires! We LOVED getting to know your family and see your new place!