Use Your Fine China

This was one of the many little things that my Mom used to tell me.  She used to elaborate, saying "why keep it stored away in a china cabinet. It is to use! Use it!!!"   Who knew then that these little nuggets of wisdom would have such a greater meaning for me now.

Today is her birthday. She would have been 72. 

This morning I asked Lucy "What do you remember about Grammy?"

This was the conversation that followed (verbatim):

Lucy's response:  "Grammy and Lindsay and her heart."

I said, "Grammy and Lindsay and her heart?  What about her heart?"

Lucy replied:  "Grammy's in it."

I know.  I know.  I cried too.

But more importantly, I am so grateful to Lucy for the reminder that she is still in all of our hearts....always.

So, Mom, in honor of you...

and your birthday...

and all the little things you taught me...

the fine china is out.

PS....Our dear little ladybug friend showed up on my windshield again this morning.

Family Matters

For some time, Brian and I have been talking about going up to the D.C./Arlington, VA area, to visit with Lucy's 98 year old great Grandma Moorleghen.  Well, we finally did it...and I, for one, am sad we didn't do it sooner!  Lucy and Grandma had never met;  it was such a treat to watch them together. We also were able to visit with several of Brian's uncles and cousins from the area; Brian's parents and sister came down for the family gathering as well.  In spite of the uncomfortably hot and humid weather (with nasty mosquitoes everywhere!) we had a wonderful visit with everyone.

Grandma lives in a great neighborhood, and we enjoyed walking to various parks during our visit.

Hanging out with Papa Barnes...

Sidewalk chalk on the back patio...

with Mamaw Barnes...

The whole gang, over for a pizza party on Sunday night:

Cousin Michelle, with son Alex and Lucy...

Another park, a bit further away, but still a nice walk.   Lucy loved this modern take on a merry-go-round...

Of course the water features were a welcomed addition on this hot day.

Mostly, we enjoyed visiting, eating, and relaxing...a great way to spend a mid-summer's weekend.

A bit of Patriotisim...

...to carry us over post Independence Day.


VID00283 from Karen on Vimeo.

Lazy Days of Summer

The heat is on, in a fast and furious way.  97 degrees here today in Cinci! Not to mention the recent wind/rain/hail storm we had, prompting the downed tree in our backyard.  (At least we never lost electricity, like many others in our area.)   When outside, we are trying to stay cool by going out in the a.m, or making sure there is some kind of water nearby.  

Or, we try to get creative indoors...

Water again....

After this scenario was set up..

Brian said, "we look like hill billys." (No offense to the hill billys out there, as Brian is really one at heart.)   But you've got to do what you've got to do to stay cool, right?

Birthday parties are a nice distraction.  Especially when they are in an indoor recreation facility!

The garden still demands our time and attention.  Lucy loves it...and so does our backyard bunny "Herbie," who has unfortunately eaten all of our strawberries.  But the zucchini and squash, along with our various peppers, are almost ready to be picked.  (No sign of tomatoes just yet.) Stay away Herbie!

And my latest blessing: being my niece, Lindsay's, sponsor for her confirmation.  

It was an honor. 

My Mom's spirit was everywhere. 

Papa and Lucy hanging out, during some down time at my sister's house.  Love these pix!

Hope you are finding ways to stay cool and pass the time during these lazy days of summer!