That's Right! I'm back!

Dear Journal,
It's been a crazy few weeks! I went to New Mexico with Colette. Here are some highlights from my trip:

1. Gambling. I really like gambling. I even got my own perks membership at the Isleta Casino and Resort. Some favorite games include Video Poker and a 50s themed video slot machine. The bonus round gives you lots of small winnings. I did not win a Jeep- the guy who did, however, said "What! Another car!" and stalked off.

2. Monopoly. Have you ever played a tri-generational game of Monopoly with me, Colette, her Aunt, her Uncle, her brother, and two cousin? You're missing out. Philip got really upset because by the time he made it around the board, every last property had been purchased. Did I mention gambling? When I got back from the casino at 9, the game had just ended due to bedtimes, after 7 hours. That's right. Seven hours.

3. Knitting. I totally knit socks! (By the way, you should read "Knit Socks!" It's a wonderful book about, you guessed it, knitting socks.) I knit a blue sock during our 9 hour wait in O'Hare and flight from Chicago to Albuquerque. I ran out of yarn so I was unable to finish it's twin, but I did start on yes, I did, a THIRD SOCK! A pink one, no less.

4. Hot Springs. I am a fan of hot springs, particularly Ojo Caliente. I loved the Mud Tub! I also got a whole quart of Lithia water. It's supposed to boost your mood, but really, it just tastes a bit... dank. A definite highlight of the trip was a couple who showed up at the end- a gentleman in a leopard print speedo and his female companion in a hunter orange thong bikini. Gross. We booked it after that. (Although Colette's brother did stare at the lady for a bit of time.)

5. Sonic. This is a fantastic drive-in fast food place. I love their onion rings. I also love the way they carry your food out to the car. I like to make lots of requests of customer service professionals, so this works well for me. I sampled Sonic in a few different cities. In Española, a man came up selling candles that "fell off a truck." I told the guy that "I think we're okay," causing Philip to set off into peals of laughter.

6. Pooping. Philip and I bonded rather heartily over stories about pooping and poop mishaps. Ask me about them sometime!

7. Chihuahuas. I am in love with the Montoyas' chihuahua, Lola. I am seriously thinking of replacing Colette with her. Lola snuggled with me constantly and followed me wherever I went. She yelped sadly when I climbed on top of the train car in their orchard. Lola also slept on my chest every night. Even though everyone else is sick of her snarfling, I kept the bedroom door open every night so that Lola could join me. Too bad she can't jump the foot from the floor to the bed!

8. Warehouse stores. Who doesn't love the ability to buy restaurant sized condiments, contact solution, and a $1.50 hot dog/ coke combo all in one place? I do!

So that's New Mexico!

See you later!

Love,
Jen