Owls of Cruces

Today as I entered this restaurant I have noticed a group of family members celebrating a birthday party. I could see the birthday kid because he was wearing a birthday cap. His family members surrounded him, singing Happy Birthday. He looked around 12 years old, blondish hair, and freckles on his cheeks. Aside from the birthday boy, I focused on a older gentlemen who was sitting alone. I could see he looked around his early 60's. I got the courage to sit by him and ask him questions. As I sat down across him he immediately wondered why I was sitting at his table. I got the puzzling look on his face. I quickly said, "hello?" He replied with a soft invitation to sit with him. At this point I felt good. I asked him several question; where are you from, how long have you lived in Las Cruces, do you like this restaurant, etc. This conversation continued in a way that didn't appear professional but getting to know a person. We drank some beers and had some wings. We have several things in common like the passion for wings and beer. He's not native to Las Cruces but originally from Orlando, Florida. I wondered to myself why the change? It's almost summer time everyday in Florida besides from hurricane season. All in all it was his late wife that's from here (Las Cruces). He has been living here for almost 2 decades. That said he loves green chili, Mexican Food, and the diversity of people living here. I noticed almost immediately he grew to love Las Cruces. It was time to call it a night.