Durham Family Update: July 2011

We (Mom, Dad, Savannah, and I) just came back this past Monday from a four day excursion through San Diego. We began with Friday at Sea World where we had a much needed reunion with the Riddle family (Ronda, Terrell, Tyler, and Brandon) and spiraled through the next three days along the bay. Our second day was filled with ships and water cruisers of all types as we paraded through the majority of the USS Midway, which Mom handled like a champ despite stairs, steps, ladders, and elevated water locking doors (which I'm sure now hold a special place in her heart ;)). We also visited the Maritime Museum where we walked through a submarine, two ships, and boat, and one paddle wheeler after having lunch atop the fish market. Our last full day was spent watching the U.S. Open Sandcastle Competition on Imperial Beach followed by a dinner cruise along San Diego Bay. The last few hours before our flight back to 115 degree weather was spent wandering through Balboa Park where, despite Dad's protests ;), our attention was mostly drawn to the Automotive and Space Museums.

Looking back, I suppose the trip was a test of sorts to see just how well Mom and Susie Q could get along. We are an incredibly mobile family and this is just a testament to what we consider mobility even under the circumstances. It may seem as though we are a bit tough on Mom but the truth of the matter is that she is the stubborn one pushing to do more and more and more. An example of her determination, which I have been asked to describe in detail by Dad, was revealed to the occupants of the Tucson International Airport as Mom insisted that SHE pull her own luggage. I am sad to report that I do not have pictures of the two of them fighting over baggage beside the carousel. For those keeping score, Mom won with the following statement: "If you don't let me pull my own bag, I'm going to tell the security guard that some man is trying to steal my bag!" Savannah, Jeremy, and I both agreed that she has passed the point of return and we can all come together and agree that this woman, however she may have been set back, is independent to lengths that most would not bother...and we will not be trying to carry her luggage, or help her in/out of a vehicle any time soon. I am posting several pictures just so all of you can see how easy Mom makes all of our galavanting look and how much, very necessary and very long awaited, fun we all had.

Day One: SEA WORLD