In November, my dear friend Axier Uzkudun from Spain came to the States for the first time. He and his husband, Luis, flew to New York then to Chicago. I so badly wanted to be able to see him! It had been 13 years since we parted ways at the Bilbao, Spain airport. I also wanted Axier to meet his namesake, our little George Axier Stafford. My brother Scott lives in Chicago and said we could stay with him. So as an early Christmas present, Travis bought a roundtrip ticket from St. George to Chicago, and George & I left for our 3 day vacation in "the windy city". It was so much fun to see my brother again (it's been about 5 years). He's got a nice little house in the town of Grayslake where he lives with his sweet sharpei, Sal, and his vicious mean scarlet macaw, Beleza. It was nice just to hang out and catch up (and eat!!)
And I can't even explain how great it was to see Axier again after all these years. He's been such a good friend to me both during and since my mission. (So much so, I had to name a kid after him!) It was nice, too, to be able to finally get to meet Luis. They are so well suited to each other. They are both just wonderul people.

It was a great trip... truly an adventure. And one I'll never forget! Here's some pics.
(Above is: Uncle Scott with little George.)

George Axier Stafford with Axier Uzkudun

George playing around with Axier & Luis

George & Luis

Axier, me with George, & Luis

Bidding an old friend good-bye: Me & George & Axier