July 2010

July 2010 was a month filled with many memories. We flew back to New Mexico on June 27th for our annual "home" leave. It was a trip that we will all cherish forever.

In Angel Fire, it was a time for sitting on the porch swing and trying to catch butterflies.

A time to practice tennis...
and get Jason back on the court.

It was fun having a ball girl just like at Wimbeldon and

Having an audience with the hats and sunglasses.

In Raton, it was time to eat at an old favorite restaurant - La Cosina.

Then it was time for good fun and eats for an early 4th of July picnic.

It was time to have fun playing catch with an Uncle and

for one - practicing karate in the mirror of the truck. (He is such a funny nephew!)

Then there are those that love the pogo stick - nonstop for at least 1/2 hour!

The piggy back rides were a must!

It wouldn't be a picnic without Nona (Jason's grandma) in the kitchen giving directions and all the delicious food!

It was a time to catch up between friends.

Also time to play cards.

or watch with a nice cold drink...

or relaxing with a pal.

Of course, there was one more card game outside.

There was stealing of ice from Pa Pa's glass...

and riding the pogo stick with Aunt Nancy.

It was a time to learn about cousins that we saw in the 4th of July parade.

Then it was time to get a group picture and say our goodbyes to Raton.

It was off to Angel Fire again where we watched the humming birds....

and had manicures on the front porch.

It was also time for the hardest goodbye that I ever had to make.

We arrived back in Switzerland on the 12th of July. The next day, Mom began to not feel well. Each day she progessively got worse. Our young neighbors learned about my mom from Jason while they were talking in the garden. The next day they brought over beautiful flowers and a jar of jam - their tradition of when someone is sick.

The next day, July 20th I was flying back to the U.S. and it was time for my mom to end her battle with cancer.

The following week was a bittersweet time. It was a time to gather with wonderful family and friends. It was a time to reflect and remember the fun times and why we loved her so much.

We made some flower arrangements from the wildflowers out in the yard that Mom loved so much.

When we were previously in Angel Fire, mom was disappointed that this vine wasn't blooming for me to see. However, I am very grateful for the time we did get to spend with her during those 2 weeks.

The sevice was simple but beautiful - exactly how she would have liked it. She is loved and we will all miss her dearly.

I am ending this post with our favorite picture - Mom with her dogs and her great smile!

Netta Chris Gordon (1932-2010)