Family is Where the Heart Is . . .

I got home from TX this afternoon and let me tell you, it was a wonderful time with family. We laughed and shared and sang songs and enjoyed each person there to the fullest. Questions were hurled this way and that, picture albums were poured over, meals were shared, houses were visited, Ainsley was played with, and we had such a great time that no one wanted to leave. We are already thinking about when and where the next reunion will be. My heart is full and my body needs sleep from staying up 'til 1 and 2 a.m. chatting and debriefing and emailing Kathy from mom's bed. What a time we all had!

Almost There!

Tomorrow is THE DAY! The kids and I are flying to TX to meet our new relatives and see some "old" ones as well. Old being a relative term, especially for women "of a certain age." Hmmmm, it really doesn't feel better seeing those words in quotes. Anyway, tonight Dan is in Palm Springs at a conference (lucky) and I am packing for my trip and trying to remember things to take. At least I am not working tomorrow, so that will be a huge help in my time management. Lucy greeted me tonight like a long-lost relative (no pun intended) and likely assumed that we weren't coming home when she saw suitcases out. Patti will come and walk her tomorrow night and Friday morning and then Dan will be home. So, Kathy and Karen are already at Mom's house and Sue was there as well (naturally since she lives next door to Mom) and they are making memories that I hope I can hear all about tomorrow night when I get there. My heart is there already.

One of my team members, Bonnie, went to be with the Lord last night. So shockingly sad. Her daughter's wedding is/was planned for this coming Saturday. So sad. We were all very weepy at work today, except for my problem girl who apparently does not shed tears. Says a lot about why she is my "difficult person." As Pastor Larry said recently, "play the position you've been assigned." I am doing just that.

I'm Back!

Well, I couldn't log in to update my blog until Carrie explained how to do it. Hmmm, good thing my kids are smarter than me. We had a great time in Texas and the wedding was beautiful. Will add some pictures as soon as I can. I loved Natalie's dress and her pink shoes. Little great-niece, Ainsley, was so adorable and sweet. We all had a great time holding her and staring at her. Wish we lived closer to watch her grow up. She's coming to CA in July, so will count the days until we can see her again. Dan's mom broke her hip and had surgery this week. She is in a convalescent hospital and not too much of a happy camper, but hopefully she can get out soon. Those places are so dismal. Now on to another week of crazy work. Make it a great week.

Ah, The Weekend

The gift that comes at the end of every busy, exasperating, frustrating, overwhelming work week is a weekend. I finished my Friday, missing three people and trying to keep up with the work flow, by working until 5:30. Then, I walked out of my office and immediately set off the building alarm. Didn't they know I was still in there?!?!? Guess not. Note to self: don't work late on Friday nights. THAT was embarassing. But, since then have been having some fun. Amy is in town visiting from Chicago for her birthday, Carrie came home to see her, we are celebrating Carrie's birthday today with lunch out. Ash and I went to Robin the wonder girl and have fresh cuts and more of those natural blonde highlights. We found clothes for both girls for the big Texas wedding coming up next weekend. So, short week this week and on to TX for some down-home kind of fun with family. All best wishes to Natalie and Josh as they are married on Saturday.

BBQ tonight

Sunday evening is a great time to recover from the busy weekend and BBQ a steak. The Olympic Games are on and lots to watch there as well. We are ready for a new week. Ash is headed to TX to visit her friend, Candace, then Aunt Sue and family. I'm a little envious! Will she pack her cowboy boots or not? That is the big question. I'll let you know how it turns out.