September 2013

     We woke up to five deer in our yard this morn, four bucks and a doe.  The doe was inside my raspberry patch fence. Three mornings ago on my morning walk, I saw a healthy bobcat with a bright white tail.  These special moments are treasured memories, and I enjoy reading about them again.
Last week on my birthday, I couldn't remember what I had done on my birthday the year before.  I simply looked it up on my blog.  Oh yeah, I remember...  I've decided to continue to write as retirement from teaching continues.  I wake up each day ever so grateful.
     Today is Trevor's birthday, the 18th of the month.  In September we worked most every day until my birthday on upgrading the Partridge rental house including painting the inside and outside.  We spread gravel and painted on my birthday, then joined Mom and Pop and Eddie at Humpty Dumpty for lunch.  When I got home I jumped in the pool to cool off and clean up, plopped in the bed with my book, and read and napped the rest of the day away.  It was great.  My birthday adventure was an epic adventure on the GSes, Eddie, Fred, and I.  We drove up to Tahoe, a hint of fall in the air.  We rode a 23 mile loop up to Barker Pass on an OHV trail.  As it got gnarly, I got off and hiked.  Next we passed Bear Lake, it got rough again, then onto the Rubicon Trail, and again, the last two miles were very rocky.  I figure I walked about 5 miles.  Eddie and Fred muscled the bikes through the rough road, each putting it down once.  We had big smiles.  It was a Go Pro day, but we didn't have the camera.  I got a few pics from my phone.
     Last week five week old Paxton got to come to GrandMuM and Grampa's house with his family.  He got to meet more of the family.  Family dinners and cozy home time was enjoyed by all.  E'lora has graduated to her own room.  She explored as she was putting herself to sleep.  I suspect she'll start reading books to go to sleep soon.

Day 364 and 365-August 30-31, 2013

     First stop, Bell Hill School.  I wanted to hug Sam, the custodian retiring today.  Next stop, Partridge rental house.  I had stuff to paint and folks to meet from Utah.  On to Alexa at preschool.  After I fetched her, we got tacos at the gas station for Uncle Eddie and Grampa.  We delivered those.  I was determined to avoid the napping car.  First we tried a call to Cuzzy.  After, counting horses.  Next. we played the Rolling Stones at a loud volume, "I Can't Get No Satisfaction."  After laying down at 1, I finally got her to sleep at 2.  
     After my shower, I quickly got my hair in roller.  I tried to wash the car, but the hose is at the rental house.  OK, I'll just vacuum and clean the windshield.  Now I needed to pack my bag for an overnight in Reno.  Judy arrived at 3:30 and we headed on our rounds to pick up Nancy and Sharon while dropping off Alexa with Grampa.
     We watched a wonderful modern circus at the casino, "Escape."  Before the show we had a great buffet dinner.  At midnight, I fell fast asleep in our hotel room at the El Dorado.  Sharon read while Judy and Nancy gambled.
     Saturday morn after McDonald's breakfast, Judy and I had a long river walk along the Truckee River.  We  focused our shopping efforts on Sam's retirement gift.  I managed to find new lightweight hikers at Cabela's and the Sweetpea sandles I had been coveting all summer for less than half price!  I drove, which is tiring.  I was happy to relax at home.  But it is noteworthy that I had a sausage again at lunch, Costco hot dog, and leftover sausage at dinner with salad and baked potato.  Note to self, don't have cholesterol checked next week!
     And that wraps up one year of retirement.  Each morning I have awakened with gratitude.  I am grateful to have the health and freedom and mindfulness to live each day.  I took a step of courage to retire at 55.  It has opened up possibilities that I hadn't imagined, for example beginning a new business with the lumber mill and be the GrandMuM to a new grandson.  It made me available to travel to Arkansas for two weeks in April when my brother and his family were in a crisis situation.  It has put a smile on my face and a joy in my heart that I had lost.  My garden doesn't look that great, my house isn't any cleaner, and I haven't done anything profound.  My health is better.  My weight is down, my habits are better, and I have new dreams and imaginations.  Nothing grandious.  Simple possibilities with the time to explore them.  Joy has always come with service.  I lived a life of joy as I served.  But I got tired.  Retirement has brought a dimension of inspiration as I rested.  I want to inspire as I serve.  I hope I have along the way, but now I want to inspire myself and others daily.  And boy, do I love those grandbabies!

Day 363-August 29, 2013

     I successfully scanned and emailed my first document using our wireless printer AND I sent my first photo in a text using my clever phone.  Fred found Dustin's handprint in the cement at the base of the water heater.  He was 18 months.  I sent Dustin the pic.  I made peach cobbler and cream cheese roll ups for lunch before heading over to help.  Dan, Pop, Fred, Eddie, and I all worked hard today.  It won't be done today, this week, next week, or for awhile.  We need to pace ourselves.  Pop treated us to dinner at Smiley's.  Nice.

Day 362-August 28, 2013

     B and C had a big paint sale, buy one, get one free.  At $150 a pail, that's a great savings.  I got Fred a nice push broom and some clearance light fixtures.  Eddie picked up our big list at Home Depot.  By afternoon, Pop, Eddie, Dan, Fred, and I were all working.  I mostly scrubbed light and outlet switches.  I didn't sleep great, so I headed home about 6.  I defrosted delicious homemade chili.  I chatted with Nancy on the phone, our fabulous friends Reno trip is this weekend.  I need to wrap my head around preparations for that.  I am grateful for our rentals, I am happy to prepare this home for the next family. 

Day 360 and 361-August 26-27, 2013

     Two big days of working inside the Partridge rental house.  Monday, scrub, scrub, scrub the wood ceilings and light fixtures.  Fred nudged me to use the power drill, ...again...  Hooray, I backed off 8 wood screws with ease!  Baby, bring on the chain saw, ...not.  Pop treated us to Goombas for supper, yum!  Tuesday I painted two bedrooms, had a lovely conversation with Colin, and continued to follow up on calls from the Craigs List ad.  I painted until the paint was gone.  I was gone from home over 12 hours, Fred made my favorite, Kraft Mac and Cheese!

Day 358 and 359-August 24-25, 2013

     It's the last full weekend of my first year of retirement.  A perfect weekend.  Saturday morn we boogied over to the rental house to meet up with the tenants moving out.  After lunch at home, we went to The Ranch to clean up the firewood debris with the Kubota, now here from Arkansas.  It was fun to watch Eddie work on it.  We loaded a truck bed of cedar rounds to take home and had a beer while visiting on the deck with the folks.  A good movie after a tasty dinner of leftovers.  
     I was freaked out as I closed the chicken's door for the night.  It was a dark dark night.  I wandered up the hill with my arm out to catch the post or tree because I couldn't see.  As I began closing the door and heard frenzied crashing all around the coop.  I quickly realized it was a deer.  "Oh my gosh, I'll be trampled," I thought.  What to do?  I kept myself behind the open gate and frantically called for Fred to come.  My heart was beating outside my chest.  The poor little critter was jumping up and leaping out trying to escape, but the fencing is all around the chicken compound.  Finally it found the open gate and escaped.  We have a doe and and mother with twin fawns that have been seen pretty much daily here.  I hope I didn't scare her off.  I love seeing the deer, even though they do eat my flowers.
     Sunday morn we did a Beemer ride on the back roads to Wheatland where we had an amazing lunch at Mi Pueblito.  While Fred went over to the rental to work, I set up the invoice template for the new business and got the wireless printer working.  I worked on phone tutorials to help me with my new toy.  I also looked at the darling pics Cora sent.  Boy, this computer is a significant part of each day. 

Day 357-August 23, 2013

     "OK Brenda, make sure you get the bathrooms cleaned before Eddie's 'Welcome Home' BBQ this eve," was my mantra to self all day.  "And don't forget to pick up Alexa."  Precious didn't take a nap, so that cut into my prep time.  The day was spent getting ready for guests.  We had 16 for dinner.  I made a tasty quinoa salad to go with the chicken, salmon, and brats.  Carrot salad from Wednesday's dinner and fresh corn were other additions.  It's nice when folks bring a dish.  Jacque made a lemon cake, Alice made salad, Laurie brought fresh fruit, and Mom made clam dip.  Alexa and I went to Safeway, the library, and Bookseller to get a birthday gift for 8 year old Sierra.  I went to this former student's sleepover birthday at 10 after the party.  Fred, Laurie, and Mark were still talking when I got home.  

Day 356-August 22, 2013

     Fred and worked together at Partridge for a while.  He was there most of the day.  I got us gas station tacos for lunch while I was out picking up primer and sliding door rollers.  I unloaded the HUGE pile in the back of the truck.  I continue to do about one fifth of what Fred does.  He's power washing to prep for painting the exterior.  I mowed in the morn and did a few morning chores at home.  We met Mom, Pop, and Eddie, picking up Scott on the way, at Pine Street Burgers.  YUM!!!  They just opened a couple of weeks ago.  Eddie knows George and Suzi.  Scott gave us a tour of their place on our way home.

Day 355-August 21, 2013

     I woke up on a mission to get to the rental house to work.  By the time I watered and such (such like getting fox jammies for Paxton and sending him a little note through Amazon---we saw a fox first thing this morn trotting along our fence line with something in its mouth), then went to see Eddie and his Arkansas rig with elevated camper shell and tractor, it was 10:30, and I still had three stops to make.  One was to purchase a pitch fork for Fred, he's been wanting one for years.  I worked hard raking and loading pine needles and trimming shrubs for four hours.  When I got home a mamma deer and her twin fawns were grazing.  The spots are still faintly visible on the fawns, so so sweet.  Next I put my energies into making a nice dinner for Mom and Pop, Eddie and Fred.  We had a lovely evening.  Mom brought filet mignon from Jim Gates, Fred barbequed it perfectly.  I made my cilantro cashew dressing for spinach, carrot salad, and smashed potatoes.  I cut up fresh peaches for a Trader Joes cheesecake.  We were all stuffed.  Last night was a full moon.  Tonight it's not so smokey from the fires, so it was a lovely sight as we waved good night.

Day 354-August 20, 2013

     I left early to get to Roseville BMW by 9.  My service appointment today was complete about 1:30.  Then I headed to Office Max to get a printer for the new business and to Cokie's to return Kamp Kerksieck stuff.  I made a nice shrimp pasta to go with last night's eggplant.

Day 353-August 19, 2013

     I woke up thinking about Tracy's and Gary's birthdays today.  I was able to reach Tracy on the phone at work.  They spent their first night in the new house.  It was the first day of school for the kids.  Later in the day Gary called.  His line was busy in the morn, so that felt great.  
     I filled my day with watering, laundry, and business paperwork.  Also trying to bond with my new phone.  It doesn't make me feel smart.  I'm beginning to plan a welcome home party for Eddie on Friday.  He's on the road today.
     Here's an email that reflects my daily thoughts: I love it, thanks for sharing.  I had a school nightmare last night too---I was helping, not in charge, a way different nightmare!!!
 PS---I wake up with a grateful smile each day...  And this is little Pax, about one week old there.

----- Original Message -----

From: 

To: Brenda Kerksieck

Sent: Monday, August 19, 2013 4:22 PM

Subject: Thankful

Sent from Yahoo! Mail on Android Hi Brenda, I had a dream last night...one of those back to school nightmares, actually. We were going on a field trip and I couldn't get my class out of the building. It was actually a maze of corridors. The major part of the line kept turning the wrong way and I had to keep finding them. We finally made it back to the room, then the phone rang. I yelled,Don't get it!, but JOSEPH picked it up as we were heading out the door. I ignored the call. We finally got on the bus, the first bus had left, and the second bus was empty except for you. You were smiling and waiting calmly for us. You had sent your class on the first bus and waited for me...thanks, friend! Whew! Am I glad to be retired! (And thankful for,my good friend). Judy

Day 348 to 352-August 14-18, 2013

     Packing the camper in the morning, we headed toward the coast about noon.  We stopped in Boonville at the brewery, sampled and bought some libations.  We took curvy country road, Mountain View Road, popping out near Manchester and Point Arena.  We worked our way south to Stump Beach in Salt Point State Park.  An evening walk on the bluff then nestling in for the night with our books.  
     Thursday morn we walked down to the cove, ate tasty bacon and eggs, then walked the bluff on a perfect sunny summer day.  The sandstone formations on the coast are very unique here.  We drove down through Jenner, then ate lunch at Wright's beach.  Nap time.  We bought some fresh fish in Bodega.
     Although we were scheduled to arrive at Camp Corby after dinner, we showed up at 6 and ate with Colin and crew.  Paxton eats and sleeps and grunts.  He's very content and easy-going.  E'lora is adjusting to big sister life well.
     Friday we took E'lora shopping at the motorcycle shops.  She found a "rescue pack" at the KTM shop.  It was a little backpack.  She is into Dora the Explorer.  "Grampa, I need the rescue pack."  Friday eve Cora went to work.  We all fed Paxton a bottle for the very first time.  He did great.  Colin even took the kids and Raj to the park by himself before bedtime.
     Saturday we journeyed to Wild Flour so the crew could meet Pax.  We wandered the garden then spent an hour or so at Doran Beach.  A family excursion to Costco before going out for Japanese was a fun eve.
     Sunday morn Cora and Fred went back to Costco to buy me a smart phone.  Fred said he felt like he was driving with a teenager on the way home.

Day 346 and 347-August 12-13, 2013

     Monday I made a picnic lunch for Sharon.  She broke her leg, but insists on working in her classroom.  I wheeled her about the campus some and helped put up a bulletin board and such.  Both days included Kamp Kerksieck Kleanup. 

Day 341 to 345-August 7-11, 2013

Kamp Kerksieck Day Two-Wednesday  Dana and Stan arrived.  We four-wheeled down Jones Bar with the kids piled in the back of the truck.  Twas fun.  The boys were dying to jump off rocks.  Denied.
Day Three-Cokie and Heather arrived.  Jade, Reese, Coke, and I went to Fred's work to show Dana and Stan the mill as they were leaving town.  We decided to get pedicures!  Margie and the boys arrived in the afternoon.
Day Four-Lake Wildwood at Vista Park.  I had Alexa too.
Day Five-X Games at the Ranch, gold stars to Pop for setting everything up.  
Day Six-No one joined Fred and I at the fair.  We enjoyed walking around for a couple of hours.  We started with Izzy Tooinsky's show.  I found a sweet family from school to give the ride tickets I had bought for our Kamp Kids.  The house sure gets quiet fast.

Day 335 to 340-August 1-6, 2013

     No active labor in the morn, but they want to keep Cora in the hospital.  When I arrived at Camp Corby in the morn, Eleanor headed home and Papa Bear headed to the hospital.  After nap time, E'lora and I went to the 'pital too. E'lora loves to take everyone's temperature with the stethascope.  Dr. lets her use hers.

"Mom, could you make oatmeal cookies?" Colin said as we went out the door.  Next stop, Trader Joes to pick up missing ingredients.
     Friday morning we made Great Great Gramma Holly's Oatmeal Cookies.  

First stop was Trev's work, then to the hospital.

  Mamma Bear and Papa Bear were set free from hospital.  Vacation labor time was up, however Cora was dialated to 8.  GrandMuM said, "Let's go to the fair tomorrow."  And that's just what we did, a grand day for a "way to pregnant" mom. Great weather, carousel ride, free ice cream, and funnel cake!  

Active hard labor began at about 9:30.  Paxton John Moore was born at 11:21, 10 pounds, 22 1/4 inches.  

Sunday morning E'lora and I came to meet Acorn.

We returned Sunday night with stroganoff.

Monday morning we made apple pie with fruit from the yard for the homecoming. 

I heard the wa-wa in the night, but it never lasted long.  E'lora slept through it all.  We made biscuits Tuesday morn.

It felt like it was time to let the Camp Corby Crew settle in, the napping house gave me time to sweep and clean up a little.  I headed home about 3 hoping to miss traffic.  Kamp Kerksieck was in stage one when I got home, kids in the pool, bbq pork loin complete, beds made up already.  "Auntie Bren, do you have a tent?"  "Yes, I can put it up," replied Kaylene.

Day 334-July 31, 2013

     "Gwamma," I love to hear.  I met Jen at her work, and Precious spent the day with me.  We headed down to Lake Wildwood to get Kamp Kerksieck parking passes.  We played at the boat launch park, she loved the water too.  She was good about leaving the goose poop alone.  We dropped some chairs at Judy Hoddy's and then headed to the library.  To my surprise, it was preschool story time, AND Izzy Tooinsky was doing a show just after.  Alexa, the wiggle worm, made it through about half of the show.  She's not one to sit and watch.  I was delighted to see some former students there as well.  We stopped at Uncle Scott and Aunt Savannah's on the way home.  They are building a big shed, an extension of their little apartment below the big house that they rent out.  I enjoyed their tasty seedless grapes that are beginning to ripen.  The napping house is always a favorite part of my Alexa time too, she wears me out! 
     About 9 I got a call from Cora.  She was headed to the hospital to get Acorn checked.  She wanted me to be on standby.  Another call at about 11.  We agreed I'd come in the morn.

Day 333-July 30, 2013

     I missed my morning walk with the girls on Banner cuz I got to talking to Eddie on the phone, and lost track of time.  I was determined to get good exercise.  I watched a Tevoed Rachel Ray while I worked on Iron Man.  When I peeked out the upstairs window, a deer was grazing on the grass.  She looked just like Karly.  I so cherish our wildlife.  When I headed out to ride my bike to the post office, the tire was flat.  I'm 55 years old, and I didn't know how to pump it up.  I was about to search on You Tube when I got a call back from Eddie, and he walked me through it.  I worked on laundry and Kamp Kerksieck prep, some bills and such.  I made a lovely pasta dish with the roasted chicken and squash from Mark's garden.  Scott showed up just as we were finishing!  A delightful treat to feed him.  We played a close game of ping pong.  I lost in 20-20 overtime.  Fred was scrubbing the box trailer.  I love ping pong!  

Day 332-July 29, 2013

      Still no Acorn, and Kamp Kerksieck is next week.  In the morning I fed the garden and did chores.  Then I realized I needed an Alexa and Megan fix.  Megan had gone back to Yuba City, but I picked up Alexa at noon after fetching a sweet photo of Gary and his kids.  We took a pic to Gramma Jam and had a nice visit.  Time for the napping house.  I worked on the budget and such.  We walked to neighbors Eric and Stephanie to see their horse and garden.  They were on vacation in Alaska, but we enjoyed wandering in their garden.  We found a tomato that had fallen from the vine.  Alexa ate it like an apple.  She walked home from Bonnie's house, good exercise.  It's good exercise for me pushing her in the stroller too.  She played with Grampa while I finished dinner, a roasted chicken and kale with rice.  I'd made a cake too.  After bath time and teeth brushing, I took her home.

Day 331-July 28, 2013

      Great morning heading down to 49 bridge before parking was crowded.  We swam and climbed up river to the wash tub.  Laurie was excited to share her childhood special spot.  The water flows into a stone hole and spins you around.  My feet went straight up as it twirled me about.  Felt like a first grader!  
     I made us tasty burritos for lunch.  We had nap time, always a treat.  Fred joined me for the John Doe Band at Center of the Arts.  They sounded a lot like X in many of their numbers.  Some good covers and country pieces too.  I wore my old t-shirt with holes from the New Year's Eve concert at the Santa Monica Civic, I think it was 1989???  Maybe earlier.  I smiled the whole show.

Day 330-July 27, 2013

     Well it was a Saturday, we bicycled from Champion Mine to Nevada City Farmer's Market.  It was a nice toodle.  I made us nice sandwiches for lunch.  Fred rode his GS down to Jones Bar with Mark in the eve.  We watched a movie about 4 sisters in the eve, James Woods and Kathleen Turner were the parents.  Made me glad we don't have teenagers.....

Day 329-July 26, 2013

     Fred and I headed over to the ranch to cut firewood.  Mom fixed lunch for us.  It was very hot working in the sun, and we relaxed in the afternoon before going to 'Ol Republic for a nice evening with Laurie.  We had a long walk in the neighborhood after our brew.

Day 328-July 25, 2013

     Thursday.  Still waiting for the babe.  Gary's day to be released too.  My friend, Faye, brought fertile eggs from her sister-in-law's.  Sister Andrew is still broody.  Faye also brought her mother-in-law, Joan, who is a neighbor off of Garden Lane.  We settled in the eggs then sampled my homemade liqueurs.  I gave them a bottle of their favorite, blackberry cordial for Faye and peach brandy for Joan.  Laurie stopped by, too, to express condolences about Karly.  Off to prayer group at Starbucks today, then I picked up fair ride tickets for Kamp Kerksieck.  My stew was having trouble getting the potatoes cooked in the crock pot today.   

Day 327-July 24, 2013

     The Royal Family with the new son third in line for the throne of England look so happy and relaxed and normal.  Baby George was born Monday on Acorn's due date.  We're still awaiting the arrival of our prince (or princess).  I took both morning and afternoon walks to keep up my exercise today.  I washed all of Karly's things, there's a hole in our lives with her gone.  I studied a college accounting textbook I had picked up somewhere.  I am thoroughly stimulated by the new learning and I enjoy completing the exercises and quizzes in the chapters.  I also attended the volunteer training for Center of the Arts.  I was delighted that Acorn waited for this, I'll enjoy serving and being part of the great variety of shows they offer.  Afterward, in the Safeway parking lot, I chatted with Eddie on the phone about the good results in court today with Gary.  Still, a very emotionally draining day.  May God's hand of protection be over Gary and his precious family in this fragile time.

Day 326-July 23, 2013

     Here is the email I sent to Coke.  "Karly just joined Lucy.  I'm sure Karl, Roy, and Rich introduced them to Acorn, soon to arrive.  All the GrandFolk lovingly continue to watch over us all.  And I know  our Heavenly Father watches us and the sparrows each moment.  We are never alone.  It was so clear to me when I was with Karly that she wanted to be alone with God.  Fred and I sat together on the deck as the sun went down.  Love and hugs and tears, bren"  It just seems empty here at home without Karly.  On my walk this morning, it just didn't feel right.  I have that numbness that sadness brings, going through the motions of the day but not being fully present.
     I met the gaggle of hens on Banner Ditch for our Tuesday morning walk, there were about 10 of us.  I didn't tell anyone about Karly.
     I did some housework and made a strawberry rhubarb crisp.  I called Scott to see if he wanted to meet for kayaking and a picnic.  He said Savannah had a ribbon cutting ceremony for her business.  I fetched Mom and Pop, and we all went there.  Pop treated us to Kanes for dinner.  It was nice to be together.

Day 325-July 22, 2013

       The vet was called first thing.  Fred took Karly in at 10:45. This was the first morning she didn't walk with me, she was laying in the hypericum.  Meanwhile, I thinned my squash, cucumber, and pea plants. I picked blackberries and made more blackberry-sage syrup.      He picked her up.  The x-ray showed fluid all around a lung.  Possibly a tumor or an aspirated fox tail.  She was given antibiotics and something to help reduce the fluid retention.  She drank lots of water.  She perked up for a bit, I think glad to be home.  But then her breathing became labored.  She kept moving herself farther from us, first she was inside by the swamp cooler, next out on the grass, finally out by the garage.  I went to be with her in each spot. As time went on, I clued in, it seemed she wanted to be alone with God.  She knew we love her, but I needed to let go for her.  I continued to check in on her, about 8:30 she was gone.  I covered her with a sheet.  I went to bed.  
     Through the night I worried that she might attract scavengers.  In the morning, I discovered Fred had already buried her after I went to bed.  Sad for both of us.  It's not often that I see Fred cry.  

Day 323 and 324-July 20-21, 2013

     Two glorious days at home.  I didn't even open the garage door until Fred was due to arrive home from his motorcycle trip to Salem, Oregon.  Saturday morning I watered and deadheaded flowers.  I mowed the weeds for exercise and the park-like effect.  Piddling in the garden, finally tackling the sewing room and putting away the stuff I brought home from Hennessy School over a year ago.  I ate the last of the bbq salmon and smashed potato leftovers.  
     Sunday morning I intended to go to church, except I stayed up late and slept in.  I invited Mom and Pop over for quiche and spinach salad with my blackberry-sage syrup and pecans.  Fred called to report they blew on through Yreka, their last hotel reservation, and he would be home in about four hours.  I made deviled eggs for appetizer and knew we could have quiche again for dinner.  I also whipped up some blue cheese dressing using Sue's recipe, garlic makes it great!
     Karly didn't finish her late afternoon meal.  She began declining noticeably.  There is fluid building up under her chin.  Fred got home, she cried, she was so happy to see him.  We had a cozy evening watching our new favorite show, "Ray Donovan," and kept Karly close.

Day 322-July 19, 2013

     Rise and shine, I've been waking before 6 the last two days.  My full time/part time summer job of watering is usually complete before Karly's morning walk.  I got my fingers stained eating blackberries for breakfast.  This morning I especially enjoyed the quiet of home.  Sharon's banana pecan bread made a nice mid-morning snack.
     I read the E Myth book throughout the day, completing it before turning off the light.  I'm taking notes and appreciate the perspective it brings.  It makes me feel compelled to get our house clean and in order, because I think I'm going to get busy once the business starts.
     I picked up Alexa and she took a nice long nap.  I pointed out the "num num" on the tomato plant.  She grazed on kale as I watered my seedlings on this hot summer afternoon.  Sister Andrew is still broody, but she doesn't seem to be bothering the others.  Alexa helped gather eggs and for the very first time, she didn't break one while helping!  We read books together and she played with the bucket of golf practice balls and ping pong balls.  I think she likes their bouncing sound.  It was getting late, so we had our shower together.  I forgot to shave my armpits, but we both giggled and cooled off and got our dirty feet clean.  
     Mom and Pop treated me to Kane's before the Mary Chapin/Marc Cohn concert.  The Vets Hall was crowded and hot, but it was a nice show.  It was a mellow concert with great focus on lyrics, not a dance party at all.  Over by 10 o'clock, just as I predicted.  Nothing lasts past 10 up here in the country.

Day 321-July 18, 2013

     I got up early and got some cleaning chores on the deck done.  Prayer group met at Melissa's at 8:30, she's recovering from foot surgery.  Next I picked up Delaney at Bell Hill and Elise and sister, Vanessa, at Country Preschool.  They came over for a swim party.  Avary and brother Grayson and Sierra with her dad, Brian, joined us.  Dear friend Laurie even came over for awhile too.  I fed the kids lunch, they picked blackberries and swang on the rope swing.  They loved the slide and water.  I was pooped by 3 when I fetched them back to their daycare spots.  After a stop at the feed store, I washed my hair and slipped into my jammies.  I nice relaxing eve with some laundry thrown in.  I went to bed about 9, then woke and read for an hour or so the business book, E Myth, recommended by the CPA last week.

Day 320-July 17, 2013

     Young fellas need their sleep, it was past 9 when they roused.  I made sausage and laplanders, they're are not the eaters like my boys.  Maybe they were just being polite.  I'll eat the leftovers.  It was great to have three baseball uniforms on the clothesline again, they smell good, but I still am not too hot at getting out those grass stains.  It was like a summer day of old, I piddled with chores all day as I heard their chatter playing Wii and swimming in the pool.  Moss was the ping pong champ, I gave him a good game though.    I got them to the ball field at 4:45, then met Sharon, Nancy, and Judy for dinner at Maria's.  The hens cackled for 90 minutes.  Back to the ball field for the rest of the game.  Good competition, but Woodcreek won.  This team has only lost one game in two years.  I stopped at the store and made tuna macaroni salad when I got home.  I got lost watching a movie and it was midnight before I went to bed.

Day 319-July 16, 2013

     This morning was Fred's departure for a motorcycle trip to Salem for a BMW rally with John and Clint Meyer.  We got up early and did morning chores.  I had an 8:00 dental cleaning, so I was off as the Meyers arrived for breakfast.  I got a good report from Pam, my hygienist.  My flossing has made a difference.
     Next I headed up to Banner Ditch Trail.  I was hoping to catch up with my walking group.  They must have gone down the ditch, and I journeyed up.  I was chatting away with Auntie Carol on the phone, and forgot to turn around.  I barely made it to Laurie's in time for our 11:00 meeting for a trip to the river.  I explored just up from 49 bridge with Laurie, a place I'd never been before, "The Bubbles."  We had a nice relaxing time, Erica, Laurie, and I.  I even fell asleep.
     Once home I did some watering chores, then read my novel for awhile.  One of the Andrew sisters is rather broody, egg production is down.  I'll need to research about this, I don't know what's happenin', at first we thought she was sick.  I'm getting lots of exercise walked up to the coop looking to see if the nests are empty!  The other girls made one more nest on the bottom of the coop.  
     I picked up Mom and Pop to watch Jacob's game.  We stopped at the library on the way.  Another victory for Land Park.  I won the prize of three fellas from the team spending the night, along with big brother Joshua.  I popped popcorn and put out a jar of Skittles.  They entertained themselves with Wii baseball before turning in way past my bedtime.

Day 318-July 15, 2013

     Well, hmmm...  Twas a Monday, let me think...  I got distracted on the computer and finally walked Karly just after 9.  I fixed up the automatic sprinklers connected to the house water for the garden while I'm in Santa Rosa with Acorn's arrival.  Due date it next Monday.  After some bank paper gathering, I stopped by Wells Fargo, then met with Denise, Agate's bookkeeper for over 29 years, almost there as long as Fred.  We talked about details related to the business to help me get my sea legs under me with this new venture starting Fred's Custom Milling and Lumber.  We will wait for the machinery acquisition to be complete before formalizing anything, but I have lots of footwork to do now.  Big learning curve!!!  I did some laundry and such.  Fred needed to pick up his dirt bike at Adam's so I dropped him there, wired $17K to Eddie in Arkansas to buy a truck, picked up some nice fresh wild salmon and some Red Vines at Safeway, then watched a bit of Jacob's third All-star game.  We heard later that he got a home run AND won the game.  Uncle Fred told me to give him a $20 when I see him at Tuesday's game, but he can't tell the other kids.  Mum's the word!

Day 317-July 14, 2013

     A lovely hike on our Bridgeport loop with Karly.  We walked the trail backward of our usual direction, starting up the dirt road because of the fee parking near the river.  Karly and I took a swim in our refreshing Yuba.  It was hot by the time we got back to the truck about 11:30.  Two and a half miles in two and a half hours, so would that be one mile an hour pace?  Maybe we left home at 9.  
     Christina, Jacob, and friend, Alex, came to swim and relax before Jacob's all-star game.  Fred and I had a nice nap before heading out to watch about half to the game.  The team got spanked, oh well.  Another game tomorrow.
     I made a tasty frittata with lots of vegetables.  I used my blackberry sage syrup as dressing with spinach and pecans.  Oh my, that was good.  I'll definitely make some more of that!  We're hooked on the new Showtime series, Ray Donovan.

Day 316-July 13, 2013

     Fred needed to do some work in the morn on this Saturday.  Laurie and I met at her nephew's house in town.  They were having a garage sale.  I scored a nice wood desk for E'lora and some other stuff.  Then we headed to the farmer's market out at the North Star house.  Delightful.  I even bought myself some sunflowers.
     I made egg salad sandwiches for our lunch when Fred got home, home grown sprouts too, yum.  We worked outside in the afternoon, Fred weeding and I did some planting.  Jacob, one of the Kamp Kerksieck kids, had an all star baseball game in Nevada City.  We enjoyed watching his close game, and they were the victors.  I cooked up some nice veggies for dinner and we watched a movie before bed.

Day 315-July 12, 2013

     Sharon came in the morn to pick blackberries.  We chatted the whole time and caught up on our lives of the last two weeks.  I made a BIG blackberry cobbler to take to Laurie and Mark's for dinner.  Mark made pasta and some HUGE artichokes he'd bought in Gilroy earlier in the week.  No Alexa today, as she was still sick.  I met Fred and we went to Summer Thyme for an overpriced little lunch.  I'd planned to make us a little picnic, but I ran out of time.  I went to the library and then found a bra and shampoo for half price at Top Drawer's going out of business sale.  I took some cans and bottles to the recycle place and found out that's not worth my time!  Our stuff will simply go in our bin for pick up.  K-Mart had a coreopsis and a couple of other things on my list, I tried not to fiddle-fart and get too distracted shopping.  I had business calls to make including adding an umbrella policy for our personal insurance.  Something to take care of before we get this business stuff going.  The days are delightful, I love the pace of retired life.  Each day is full, but I don't feel pressed to be places and certainly don't feel like I'm carrying around such a big load.  We had a delightful eve with Mark and Laurie.

Day 314-July 11, 2013

          I mowed and I felt really really bad when I ran over the Direct TV cable.  Fred was able to repair it, but still I felt bad.  Now I know why he won't teach me how to run the weed whacker, imagine the damage I could do with that!
     At 4 with the kayaks loaded, we met with David Scinto, a CPA recommended by Eric, to discuss starting the business.  He was very encouraging and gave helpful insights.  We'll begin small and simple, and take more steps if we reach a point of having employees some day.  We picked up the DBA form at the county recorders office and looked for a book, E Myth, suggested by David at the library.  A picnic at Lower Scott Flat rounded out the day, a lovely eve for kayaking.  Mom and Pop, Laurie, Mark and Alice, and Jacque and Mike joined us.  

Day 313-July 10, 2013

     Firewood morn, we split one truck load, or I should say I "lever girled" one load.  Fred touched each piece probably four times, I did once as I unloaded from the truck while Fred chain-sawed some of the rounds.  While working on our project, I got a call from Jen that Alexa needed to get picked up from school.  
     Alexa went with me on my errands to the bank and Safeway.  We went to Adam's garage to drop off Fred's KTM for repairs.  Nap time went grand.  Our last adventure was a stop at Center of the Arts to get Mary Chapin Carpenter concert tickets for Mom and Pop and I.  She loved exploring the theater at bit, "Ta daaaaa" has its perfect moment here.  I signed up for the volunteer training so I can see shows and help at the same time.  We're now members too.
     Just after 5, I picked up Jenny and her boys with all of their luggage for their journey to Mongolia.  First stop, San Francisco airport!  Traffic was seamless.  I got home before midnight.

Day 312-July 9, 2013

     A lovely home day.  I spent all morning in the garden.  I planted most of the seeds I had laying around, spread some fish immulsion, picked blackberries at noon.  I tried a new drink syrup that I saw in Sunset magazine yesterday.  I infused some sage with the blackberries.  Using that syrup with club soda makes a zesty refreshing drink.  An afternoon nap after reading my novel for awhile.  Ah,...  Gave Fred a nice hour massage.  I also made him some peanut butter cookies.  

Day 311-July 8, 2013

     Arriving at Roseville Galleria today with my friend, Jenny, and her two year old son, I commented that this was about my fifth visit there ever.  After this day, however, I am quite the mall expert.  I walked around ALL DAY, 11 to 5 o'clock, with Tamir while Jenny shopped.  When we walked in Macy's door, we found one of those cute race car strollers that one can rent.  I got the 50 cent return deposit when we left.  That made a great cart, although rather wide, all day long.  Tamir even fell asleep like I do on the back of the motorcycle as we toodled along.  As we drove there, I told Jenny I would use one half of one eye to shop for a bathing suit top for me.  I would use the other 1 1/2 eyes to watch Tamir at all times.  After trying on a few at Nordstrom, and looking at many other stores, I found a cute one at Victoria Secret.  Now a had that eye half to shop some more.  After talking with Fred on the phone, I was on an extra large, all cotton tank top quest.  Found one at the Gap.  One thing I know about that mall, it is laid out in an oval on two levels with crossing corridors.  It was still confusing to me as we left.  I knew what I had seen, but I didn't know where it was.  Misha and Kyle were tardy meeting us at In and Out, but I got my savory burger and had some to read my Sunset magazine.  Once home, I was glad to relax and do a bit of business paperwork.  I've been having trouble getting to sleep, it may be that afternoon iced coffee.  Do you think???

Day 310-July 7, 2013

     Blackberries again, Fred was making pancakes, so...  I made the rest of the bucket into syrup.  That was after our adventurous motorcycle ride with Erica and John.  We rode to Colfax, across the north fork of the American River to Iowa Hill, around to Sugar Pine Reservoir, through Foresthill, then down to Yankee Jim's on a gravel road to cross back over the river into Colfax.  We found a great little diner next to 80, Dine and Dash.  Great burgers and coleslaw, nice energy in the place.  I read and took a nap when we got home.  Jenn made soup and invited us to dinner.  We had a lovely mealtime together, then took a nice long walk around the block, all five of us.  I brought cobbler to share.  My heart sang.  We stopped at friends, Cyn and Gary, who live nearby so I could drop off a book.  We chatted with them for half an hour, then found ourselves getting home past bedtime.  Two late nights in a row!  

Day 309-July 6, 2013

     Blackberry picking, two buckets, started the day.  While is was still cool, we headed over for more firewood.  We worked until we lost our shade.  I then made cobbler for our dinner guests, Mel and Art.  I must have cleaned house and jumped in the pool, but where does the time go?  Oh yes, Fred gave me a fabulous massage!!!  That's where the time went!  Pasta, salad, and bread make an easy meal.  I set the table, and that always make things feel special.  We enjoyed conversation on the deck after dinner.  Art has worked in the mill longer than Fred, and he'll continue to work with Fred as saw-filer and assistant.  We've camped with them before, and we'll do a Nevada trip in October.  We were up past 11, that's late for us.

Day 308-July 5, 2013

     Fred and I worked together to weed the raspberry patch. Oh, it looks so much better!  I bagged up some star thistle, that's nasty stuff.  Then we headed over to the Ranch to split firewood at neighbor Marilyn's.  Mom made us lunch, and it was nice to visit with Mom and Pop.  I'm trying to do some reading on the internet about business stuff, Fred and I chat about our thoughts and ideas as well.  We have a white board full of possible business names.  After firewood, I cleaned up for town to deliver some papers to Wells Fargo and do some shopping at CVS and Safeway.  The temperature has come down a bit, and that's a big relief.

Day 307-July 4, 2013

     A home day with no people was my desire for this day.  I talked with Mom and Pop on the phone, but that was pretty much it.  I picked blackberries and wild plums.  I cooked down the plums to make jam/sauce.  Fred took a motorbike ride up to Grouse Ridge lookout, his knee is feeling better after a cortisone shot.  I put my feet up and read my novel, The Art of Hearing Heartbeats.  I cleaned the bathroom drawers and cupboards.  I cooled off in the pool, I relaxed and savored the quiet.  We had bbq chicken and I watched the Lake Wildwood fireworks through the trees.

Day 306-July 3, 2013

     Blackberry picking is the first order of business.  They are plump and juicy, wonderful bounty this year.  I mowed next, worked up a nice sweat.  The weeds look like a park now.  Fred and I had some nice time together before meeting Eric, owner of Peaceful Valley Farm Supply, for lunch at Diegos.  He is a successful businessman and motorcycle riding buddy of Fred's.  He gave attentive advise and answered questions about the proposition of starting our own business with the mill.  He also was very encouraging.  After that we walked across the street and ordered a new shower door for our bathroom.  Then we headed downtown to apply for a home equity line.  Eric suggested this, "The time to talk to the bank is when you don't need them."  We don't need money now and don't foresee needing to borrow any, but to have this in place will give Fred peace of mind.  As we walked in Wells Fargo, I remembered that it was July 3 of last year that we had gone in to get the same loan.  Long saga, but I so dislike this process.  A whole bunch of people are polite and act like they want to help, but they keep asking for the same information over the course of months and never seem to remember what you tell them.  Hopefully this will go well.  By night time I was in a frustrated funk about the whole bank process, I went to bed early.  Mostly, I was just tired.

Day 303 to 305-June 30 to July 2, 2013

     It's hot.  It's nice to be in our air conditioned home!  E'lora  and I cooled off in the pool, but mostly we just hung out at home.  Here is the email report I sent to Cora, "Guess who slept well on the car ride home, and went right to sleep when we got home about 10:30?  She slept until 7:30 without a peep and woke up happy.  First thing we had to find some turkeys, then we picked blackberries.  I had an idea.  The Raj dog biscuit jar could make a nice on the counter compost holder, better than the bucket and towel???  Make a list of tasks for when I come back at birth time, and I'll get to as many as possible.  Also, any tasks I could do when we fetch E'lora back to you guys in a few days....  I miss the country, and I'm content to be home sleeping next to Fred.  Love you guys, and we're having a ball with Precious!  love MuMMM"  Watering was a key job.  I reviewed and consolidated my "to do" lists, working on the list of tardy thank yous I needed to write.  We watched Tangled, cute.  Grampa took her to Reibes and the grocery store Sunday early eve.  While they were gone, I made tuna macaroni salad.  We had Grampa's leftover stir-fry and sausage for dinner.
     Monday it's hot, over a 100.  We didn't even take our normal walk.  It was important to look for turkeys each morning though.  I did bills and the budget to get caught up on life a bit.  We did some more swimming in the pool, no head under the water though.  E'lora loves my macaroni salad.  
     Fred and I thought about taking a little coast trip after taking E'lora back to Santa Rosa, but with the heat and holiday traffic, plus Fred's knee has really been hurting, we decided not to.  I headed out Tuesday morn with the goal of being home before the hottest part of the day.  It was forecast to be 111 in Rough and Ready.  I wanted to leave by 8, but going poop interrupted our departure.  Success on the number two, but we left close to 9, arrived at Corby at 12, home by 4 with a stop at Roseville BMW to fix the seat belt.  E'lora was a perfect traveler.  I wanted to keep her awake so she would nap in the afternoon.  We sang "Secret Agent Man" at the top of our lungs at least three times on Highway 101.  At our fuel stop she walked around a bit and got her lollipops, one in each hand.  I brought tuna macaroni salad for the kids.  I wanted to pick them some blackberries, but I just can't do it all.  I sure am grateful for air conditioning!

Day 298-302 June 25-29, 2013

     Pop and I headed out in the camper again on this rainy day to Santa Rosa for project Corby House time.  He bought an American flag for the kids at the Dixon Safeway where we stopped for coffee.  

I picked up some Drumsticks for the freezer for survival food.  I had a nice pot of stew in the fridg and some fresh carmel bars to share.  We arrived in time to make lunch for Colin and Jeremy, they had been working hard in the house, something up in the attic.  After lunch we got right to work, Pop was stripping and refinishing the wood cap on the living room half walls, 

I began scrubbing the old kitchen cabinets that were now in the midst of the new and fresh stuff.  I headed over to the old house while Cora headed out to a meeting.  Precious and I even got some packing and loading done.  I had a full Prius when I returned to the fellas to make their dinner.
     Wednesday more scrubbing, clean and fresh and safe.  I did a Home Depot run and picked up In and Out for lunch.  It's getting hot again!  E'lora duty as Cora headed to work.  Cora brought us a lovely pot of split pea soup!  Colin fetched her home so they could go to sleep.  
     Thursday and Friday were trim painting days with more Home Depot shopping mixed in.  Two fellas came to restretch the carpet that was improperly installed.  Good service to fix a poorly done job!  Gold stars for Moises and Luis.

Thursday eve Cora, E'lora, and I went to get more paint.  Precious and I dropped Cora at a meeting in Cotati, then we boogied to the Santa Rosa Home Depot to get the one missing outlet cover piece.  E'lora picked out a big hanging petunia for the front porch.

Jeremy headed back to Arcata Thursday eve, so Pop and I were at the house by ourselves that night.

Friday we backed the camper into the driveway and took it off the truck.  I also gave the bathroom another thorough cleansing.  Pop built a solid floor into the crusty bathroom vanity, we painted up the old rusty medicine cabinet.  A bathroom upgrade is a future project.  Clean and fresh and safe.  Colin's buddy from the bakery, Melosh, came to help with a truck load of big stuff.  I jammed stuff in the van, Cora had loaded up an awful lot already.  Cora had work, so E'lora stayed with us.  She had a nice afternoon nap on Auntie Beth's blanket in her new room.  E'lora and I had a nice refreshing shower together too, her first at the new house!  Colin headed back for another load at the old house and he was gone a LONG time---  It was hot, and it got too late for Foster Freeze, so we had more soup. 

     Saturday morning, Mom and Pop's 57th wedding anniversary, we woke to half of the power not working in the house.  Pop problem solved the issue well.  I also vacuumed lots of dog hair from the couches and cleaned and whiped stuff coming from the old house.  Pop and I headed to Home Depot and got some "wish list" items to surprise Colin, a ladder, saw horses, a hand broom, as well as an electric main breaker that seemed to be faulty.  A few more returns and needed items.  Then we had a nice date at Foster Freeze splitting a ham and cheese sandwich, onion rings, and a root beer freeze.  I headed to the old house with the truck.  Cora had again packed a ton and then headed to Vivian's fairy birthday party, a needed time of rest.  Another bakery buddy with a truck came to load up all remaining stuff.  Another great worker and friend.  After unloading, we put the camper back on the truck.  We headed home about 7 so Pop would have the evening with Mom for their anniversary.  I brought E'lora home with me so Colin and Cora would have time to regroup and bond with the new house.  She quickly fell asleep in the car seat, as did Pop for awhile.  She went right back to sleep in the crib once we got home.

  

Day 297-June 24, 2013

     A day of rest.  I stayed in my jammies until noon and fiddlefarted.  I could feel myself on the verge of getting sick Sunday, so let my body just be.  About noon I started a big pot of stew.  Then I headed to Laurie's to deliver and fetch wedding stuff, I took roses from the wedding to Mom and then on to Ma Bone, Tom's mom in the rest home.  Fred and I had a nice quiet eve.  I baked caramel bars, washed some clothes, and caught up on correspondence.  I still need to do wedding thank yous, ugh.  I enjoyed a good film, Beyond Borders.   

Day 296-June 23, 2013

     Another Sunday morning of wedding clean-up.  Wouldn't you know it even began to sprinkle a little.  The dance floor got disassembled once again.  Fred and I returned the OSB boards to the Brown Ranch.  We got ingredients for a nice steak dinner, and Fred was the chef for the eve.  I didn't even lift a finger for any kitchen wenching.  I was REALLY tired after such fun and effort these last three days.  I ended up with some of the flowers, so I rearranged them to give to Mom and Gramma Bone, and I'll take a bouquet to Cora on Tuesday.  My friend, Laurie, must be absolutely exhausted!!!!!

Day 295-June 22, 2013

     Corsage and boutonniere day, Alice and Serene took care of those.  We gathered at 9, again, I met lovely friends of Stacey and Acey.  Many hands helped with the tasks of the day.  I tried to keep Laurie hydrated and Stacey out of the sun.  I lay down to rest before showering up, Fred was shocked.  I think I like little naps on a big day.  Guess who danced far into the night and had to get a ride home with Scott and crew?  I was well hydrated for this wedding, so no hangover.
     Another perfect wedding.  The weather was nice with an amazing full moon.  Just enough plates and food and drink.
Stacey's Uncle Kurt married them, and the vows they wrote for each other express such deep regard and respect for each other.  They will be splendid partners.  I am so happy to see my friends, Laurie and Mark, celebrate the graduations and marriages of their two wonderful children, they have launched them well.

Day 294-June 21, 2013

     I love these long days.  I'm amazed that I wake up early each day in my retirement, 7:00 is sleeping in.  My garden is pretty puny, but it's coming along ok, I'm trying to keep going what I started late.  I was at the DeMartini's at 9 to help with flowers for Stacey's wedding.  A great crew assembled.  Eli and Kayleeana came with me to our house to load up more tables, it is delightful to meet Stacey and Acey's friends.  Their wedding spot on their family property near the pond is perfect.  I am so happy to help and be a small part of such a precious couple beginning their marriage.  We were included in the rehearsal dinner at Sopa's in the eve, what a lovely whimsical family Acey has, nine aunts and uncles (plus their spouses)!

Day 293-June 20, 2013

     Mom and I headed to Santa Rosa at 10 with the truck loaded with furniture for The Bear Family.  Our first stop was the new house.  Amazing progress has been made.  If they needed to move in today, it would be OK.  I was glad for Mom to see the house in this better state, no awful smells, no more holes in the walls, fresh paint and new doors.  We enjoyed a lovely group of about a dozen ladies, including Auntie Carol's good friend Susan, who now lives in Santa Rosa.  E'lora plays well with the older little girls, Ava and Fionna.  We deposited leftovers to the fellas in their new big stainless fridg that is now staged in the garage.  We hit the road for home, and arrived about 10.  My goal was 9:30, so that was pretty good.  It is a big day of driving though.  I prefer not to drive at night.

Day 292-June 19, 2013

     A day off for Fred!  Wedding clean-up continued.  He was mowing and weeding, I was pulling hose and watering.  "So this is how two Germans spend their day off," he grinned.  "Let's take your folks to Humpty Dumpty for lunch."   When he called them, they were on there way there for breakfast!  They waited to join us at lunch, and then Scott joined us, too, before heading to Oakland for a firefighter test.  He and Savannah had two lovely days at a remote cabin on Deer Creek.  They headed to Reno later in the week, but life calls during this two week work break after the wedding, and they aren't having a long get-away honeymoon now.  We went to the Ranch to load up Cora's Granny Hootenanny's dining set and some other furniture and items for the Corby home.  I sang, "Come and listen to a story 'bout a man named Jed..."  The truck looked like the Clampets with the rocking chair perched on the top.  Later in the afternoon, wedding clean-up continued....  Also preparation for tomorrow's baby blessing/shower in Santa Rosa, salads and drinks to share.  A nice quiet evening was enjoyed by us both, more wedding left-overs for dinner.

Day 291-June 18, 2013

     The airport taxi left Hennessy at 9:30.  Auntie and I picked up my friend, Sharon, and her two friends, Ted and Renee, to take them to SMF.  I have heard about these two friends for years, so it was delightful to meet them.  Sharon and I ate and shopped our way home as we chattered along the way.  She hadn't been to Smash Burger, where our airport crew had gone the week before.  We hit Trader Joe's, the new Bed and Beyond, and Sam's Club.  Pop's lost golf club was retrieved in Auburn and I was back in town checking in on the wedding dress seamstress in the early afternoon.  It was God's work to bring us together for some special "sister" time to catch up.  We hadn't had quiet talking time since early April!  

Day 290-June 17, 2013

     A day to savor being home.  I began the clean up of multiple messes created by such fun that a wedding brings. I had Mom and Auntie Carol for a nice lunch of pasta salad and greens from the wedding.  Yum!   We relaxed and chatted.  It was hard to keep Auntie from jumping up to the kitchen mess, but I really wanted us to relax and visit.  A basket of laundry did get folded.  I was still about 1/8th hung over this day too.  Water, water, water.  We joined Mom, Pop, and Auntie Carol for pizza at Goombas.  OK, I'll have a beer...

Day 289-June 16, 2013

Father's Day

Also, Wedding Clean-up Day

     Goodness, I had no idea there would be so much to do the day after!  We woke up with precious family from Sacramento breathing here too.  Oops, I forgot to properly hydrate on Saturday and was VERY hung over.  I whipped up some blueberry muffins and scrambled some eggs to order.  I headed to the Brown Ranch at 8:30 to help pick up. After working hard to get things off the grass, my car was full and I made deliveries at Serene's and the Gonazales'.  Napping house in the afternoon was great, then we stopped for a quick Father's Day visit at the Ranch before joining Dustin and Beth at Serene's for a wedding leftover dinner.  The six of us enjoyed quiet conversation which included looking at some pics of Puerto Rico possible wedding venues.

Day 282 to 288-June 9-15, 2013

     Scott's Wedding Week

     Sunday, a day of rest after our big week in Santa Rosa.  Monday I dug out my clipboard to see all the plans I'd organized the weeks before.  Home preparations and bills, laundry, watering and such made for a nice home day.  I prepared a gallon of peanut sauce.  Fred chuckled when he heard that.

     Oh joy, Tuesday was fetching day.  Mom and I first picked up Megan at her home with Lydia and Wade in Marysville.  Then we got Auntie Carol at the airport.  We tried a new burger place, Smash Burger, before doing a little shopping and hitting Costco with Carol's card.  Aunt Glenda and Uncle Ed were at the Ranch, and we had a nice taco and margarita dinner there.

     Cooking curry chicken in the crock-pot Wednesday gave us a good head start for the Chicken Pile-Up rehearsal dinner.  Megan and I went to K-Mart and SPD for the remainder of the shopping list.  I laid out the spots for "K" Games and started setting those up.  Colin and crew arrived from their camping trip in the eve.  "Grandmum, can I have adventures with you?"  Ah, such sweet words.  And, of course, "Where's Kissy?"  Auntie Carol without her dog wasn't quite right for her.  Raj was home though too. 

     Thursday morning was some Kuzzie time as Jen came to pick up Megan.  

They are so delighted to see each other, and have begun to interact more than simply parallel play.  Watching "Animal Alaphabet" is their favorite request.  Notice the cute play kitchen in the background.

I baked the cupcakes for the Pinterest wedding dress cake I planned for Friday.  Cora took over completion of the project and it turned out so cute!  

Thursday eve I made a burrito bar for all.  Uncle Ed, Mom and Pop joined us.  Dear friend Laurie came after work to help chop veggies.  Many hands worked hard.  Colin did an awesome job completing the set up of all of the "K" Games' eleven events.

 

     Friday morning I had an early morning hair appointment. Fred took me on the motorcycle to fetch our car at Tom and Serene's.  Dustin had driven to San Francisco to pick up Beth.  Our morning ride felt like a mini vacation!  An unexpected opening for the manicurist left me with a spontaneous pedicure and mini-mani.  Bliss!  I was relieved of a delivery to the wedding site, so that gave me an extra hour.  Unfortunately, I forgot to take pictures of the event.  It was enjoyed by all.  Fred's team were the winners.  We had nine teams, each led by someone who had played Grampa ABCB's "X" Games.  All the chicken and rice for the pile-up was consumed.  Those were huge pots too!  I forgot about these young men appetites!  Jacque and Laurie wore themselves out washing dishes into the night.  Great friends helped wonderfully!
     The wedding day began with a gathering to set up the 30 tables in the morn.  When I got home the Sacramento crew were arriving.  The kids got to swim and frolic before the wedding.  I lay down for a nap before getting dressed.  Some of the young gals at the wedding were very complimentary of my dress, that made me feel very nice.  It was a hot day, probably upper 80s.  Considering it was 108 the weekend before, we were all very grateful.  I was surprised to find out Scott wanted me to walk with he and Serene down the aisle.  That was very sweet and unexpected.  

Our little grandgirls looked precious.

I was so happy to have Colin and AJ with their families there on this special day.