Bluff-alo

Priscilla came over and we took a ride to Chimney Bluffs. It was cold. A stiff wind blew off Lake Ontario and left our ears aching and our bodies shivering. The bluffs look old, tired, and somehow unimpressive. They are still interesting, but erosion over the past twenty years or so has taken much of their former majesty. Priscilla was very surprised and rather disappointed. I was not surprised but it is sad to recall how pretty they once were in comparison to now. I think a return trip would be nice, but not until the weather warms up and the water temperatures are tolerable. It really is a nice place to visit and a great spot to take a hike.

Cowboys and Bean Burritos

On the way home from the hospital the other day, we made a stop in Walmart where we saw the cutest cowboy in the entire west! (Or east for that matter...) You should hear him "ki yi yippy yippy yi yippy yay!" He was so cute we took him home with us. (Yes, I bought him a hat. This grandma rarely indulges in the pleasure of buying gifts for little people, but this seemed a golden opportunity.)

James suggested stopping for a taco while we were out yesterday, but I went over to my mom's and got a burrito instead. It was soft, warm, and slightly sour smelling. I unwrapped it and took a look inside. After the offensive odor was removed I wrapped it back up tight. Lucky I know a thing or two about burritos. I found it very nice to sit on the couch and hold the little bundle in my arms. I think he likes me. :)

Looking for Answers

I started down a new road back in September and find it continues to be full of bends and curves. Sometimes I appreciate the fact that I can not see around the corner and other times a warning would be helpful. Though my paternal grandfather lived to be ninety-five years old, and my father eventually became Power of Attorney over his estate, I was far enough removed and paid little attention to what my father was dealing with. Besides, it was none of my business.

Now I find myself in a position of being "somewhat" responsible for the state of my mother's affairs. I have enough knowledge to keep me awake at night, but little actual ability to control her finances. I am not sure I yet possess the ability to completely take over if she were to need me in that capacity, nor do I know how to help her realize the areas where she needs help now. I find there is much I know little about. If only it were easy to sit down and discuss all the issues...

There are many others in the world who have found themselves in this same spot. In some ways it is like being in another country where all is foreign and the language little understood. I want to be prepared and I am looking for advice, but I am not quite sure who to ask or where to turn. There are health concerns, insurance issues, and financial accounts. Each comes with its own set of terms, which need to be learned and understood, and that only once they are known to exist. Yes, the road is almost completely unknown and my steps are guarded. One day I will be able to look back and recall much of the journey, but today I walk in fear and trepidation knowing only there is no turning back.

Busy Day

It was a busy day. I will spare you the details as my running around is not likely to inspire anything short of making you all dizzy. I will say though, that the day included a surprise of sorts for me. I had to drive my husband's van for all of my errands while my own van got a new set of tires. It is almost like having a totally different vehicle. I am excited! It's wonderful! No more thumping tires, no more rattling change in the console, no more shouting above the din. I even took "old Betsy" (no offense to any friends out there...) through the car wash on my way home this evening. I can't see what she looks like in the dark but I feel as though I have a brand new car! (Thanks, James!!!)

Bits of Blue

The world has come to life and a carpet of green stretches across the yard. I should have been outside, but I spent the morning cleaning and doing laundry. I washed sheets and blankets as well as clothes, and this kept me busy for the bulk of the day. Most of them are now folded, waiting silently in laundry baskets for someone to put them away. We took the baskets upstairs with the intent put them immediately into drawers, but got distracted by making beds instead.

I have no little girls this week, but one small boy did come to play for several hours today. He built a block house with his Aunt Hannah, played cars, and drew pictures. We took him for a ride to the little diner in town where both his mother and Uncle Ben were working. We bought him a burger and some applesauce with a rather large sized milk to wash it all down. Unfortunately, he poked a hole in the side of the styrofoam cup with his little fingernail and washed himself and the table down instead. Quick reactions caused us to throw our own finger over the hole and stop the flow of milk, but not before the table was flooded. Oh, the joys of dining
out with a two year old!

Bringing Baby Home

Dave brought Leta and the baby home last night and Mom got to meet her newest great grand-baby. She could hardly wait to get her hands on him and, in typical Mom fashion, had to unwrap him to look at his little feet and toes. (Kissing baby feet is one of her favorite habits after all, one can only kiss feet when they are small and fresh.)


Lucas, who had been interested only in the mylar balloon he brought home from the hospital, was suddenly a little unsure about the new package on Grandma's lap. It wiggled like a puppy and made noise too, and it was taking a spot he thought just might belong to him. He felt the need to get up and take a closer look.

Still clutching the string of his new balloon friend, he sat on Grandma's lap and looked into the face of his new little brother. One day they will be the best of friends and will share a lifetime of memories. This is only the beginning.

Not long after Lucas got down from Grandma's lap little Simon (that's his name, Simon Elias) began to cry and you know what? Lucas cried too.

Baby's Breath

What a pretty little flower! (I'm in love all over again.)

Sneak Peek

I got a quick peak at my brand new grandson this morning. So tiny, so perfect. (I know he is even thought I didn't unwrap him to count his fingers and toes...) He was born at 1:59 am, weighed 7 lbs. 2 oz., and is 20 1/2 inches long. He smells sweet, makes soft baby sounds, and, of course, has a sweet baby face. He does not have a name. Well, he does have a last name... but Dave was just fibbing when he said his name was Abinidab Jehoiachin... Reminds me a little of the time I told my mom in law that if my baby was a girl I was going to name it Anna Joanna Rosanna Susanna. She said, "I dare ya!"

Ben went with us to the hospital (it's no fun staying home alone), but had to leave the maternity floor because he's under eighteen. He and Bethany went back down to a waiting room with Josh and Bella while I went in to see the baby with Leta's Aunt Trish who happened to show up at the same time. My visit was a little rushed and I may have to go back again for a second dose of sweet baby smell. Not too much disappointment at not getting a granddaughter. Little boys are lots of fun and Lucas will enjoy having a brother. Besides, I love little boys!

Bethany's not disappointed either. See here.

BABY!!!

Bethany's last two posts made me smile this morning, even if I did read today's first. We have a brand new family member and all are looking forward to gazing into another sweet baby face, savoring a sweet baby smell, and hearing those soft baby sounds. Yeah!

I am without a vehicle today as after I dropped Hannah off at Mom's house last night (to stay with Lucas), I had to leave my van at the shop in town. I have just one little girl today and would be without a car seat if not for the fact that the Lord told me I ought to take one home with me last night when James picked me up. I just couldn't shake the feeling that I ought to take one home, although I reasoned in my mind that I wouldn't even have a car. So, when Bethany goes to see the baby today, guess what? I have a car seat for Bella! (It pays to listen cause God always knows best.)

Floor Pacer Alert!

I just may have a new baby to hold sometime tomorrow!
Pray for Leta.
And I thought I was going to sleep tonight...

Calming the Storm

Last night I made some decisions and they involved a trip to Webster this morning. After dropping my four children off at preschool (Hannah stayed to help today), I headed out and then stopped to visit my mom and also see how my very pregnant daughter in law is doing. Leta is due any day now; we are just waiting... (Come on, Baby!)

I had a very nice visit with my mom and took her a journal to write in. I told her how much I really want her stories to be preserved too, not just Dad's. So much is lost when our parents and grandparents move on and I so enjoy the tales of childhood my parents shared through the years. I could see Mom's "wheels" turning and we talked and laughed some more at some of her memories like when someone asked her how she liked her baby brother. She said she didn't like him. He pulled her hair. "Why don't you take him back?" she was asked. "We can't," she said,"We used him already." Funny thing is Mom is only 20 months older than her brother so she couldn't have been much more than 2 1/2 or so when the story happened.

On my way back to preschool, I suddenly remember that Vinnie was going to show up at the house because I had forgotten to call and have his mom meet me in town. I gave a message to one of the other preschool moms and raced home rather than waiting for Hannah and the little people. While I was gone the girls and Hannah walked Colton home. They were waiting for me when I returned with the baby.

I'm feeling better today, less stressed, more settled. Thank you all for your prayers.

Tea for Three

What better distraction from the thoughts that fill my mind than three little girls and a "tea party"? My cousin's granddaughter came to play with Emma and Bella this afternoon. I have decided that three little girls do not make any more noise or create a bigger mess than two, at least not the two I normally have.

I am still wondering where to find small children who are not enrolled in preschool. Who will I take to the park next year? Who will accompany me to the zoo. Will I never go back to the Strong Museum of Play? Do children really need to read before entering first grade and how long do they think it takes to teach a child to read anyway? Why can't we just have fun learning to play for the first four or five years of our lives?

Okay, enough ranting. I don't think Lucas will be heading off to preschool any time soon. Maybe he'll enjoy hanging out with this "old woman" when she gets a hankering to play or visit the farm market next year. The girls will be going to preschool on the school bus five half days a week. What ever will I do?

Obstacles

For by You I can run against a troop;
By my God I can leap over a wall.
2 Samuel 22:30

I used this verse and photo a couple years ago when I was facing some homeschool challenges. Today's struggles are much different but I find the same scripture applies. With God's help I can overcome; He is there to be my strength, to supply wisdom, and to comfort me when the pressures feel too much to bear, and I am feeling incredibly stressed right now. I just may need a good long cry to release some of the "steam" that is building up inside, but God knows that too and He is able to bring comfort even through tears. I am not alone and I do not carry the burden by myself, but the way is once again rocky and unfamiliar, the walls steep and slippery. I need some good climbing shoes, a sound staff, and a full canteen. The prayers of friends and family are appreciated.

Dear Dad

Dear Dad,

I've been thinking about you a lot lately, wishing you were here to answer my questions and point me in the right direction. Sometimes I momentarily forget you are gone and I find myself wanting to tell you something or ask your advice.

Today is your birthday and so we find ourselves once again filled with memories. Even the happy ones can leave us feeling teary, with a lump in our throats. We know you are safe with Jesus and that is an incredible comfort in our sadness, but we still miss having you here with us. Our time flew by all too fast and sometimes I feel as though I hardly had a chance to say good bye.

Every once in a while when I am at the house, I pull out your old diaries and read several pages before tucking them back into their hiding place. I desperately want to take them home and read them cover to cover, but have thus far resisted the urge.

I still hear your voice in my mind, see your smile, and hear your laugh. I love listening to you sing and play your instruments and I am incredibly blessed that you made those tape recordings for us to treasure. Deep down I once again wish that I had learned to play the guitar or harmonica. We'll be visiting the nursing home tonight, trying to bring a bit of encouragement to those folks you held so dear. I find myself falling in love with them a little bit more each week.

We are doing our best to take care of Mom for you. Sometimes she is quiet and I'm not sure what to say to her, but yesterday we were visiting and I asked her about some of the stories she used to tell us, stories from when she was a child and stories from your days together. Her eyes brightened and we laughed as she remembered those days. She was happy and I found myself feeling relieved. I hope she might take the time to write down some of her memories for us. I think I might buy her a journal. I'm sure she misses you so much more than she ever lets on.

As we remember you today and celebrate your life here, you will be spending your first earth birthday in eternity, a new life. I can just imagine the party you might have with Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Art, Danny and all those gone before, and though I don't really think there are birthday parties in heaven, the thought did make me smile. Maybe I'll have to make you a cake (or would you prefer elderberry pie?).

I love you, Dad, and look forward to that day when we will meet again.

Love,
Martha

Till We Meet Again

God be with you till we meet again;
By his counsels guide, uphold you,
With his sheep securely fold you;
God be with you till we meet again.

Till we meet, till we meet,
Till we meet at Jesus' feet;
Till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.

God be with you till we meet again;
Neath his wings securely hide you,
Daily manna still provide you;
God be with you till we meet again.

God be with you till we meet again;
When life's perils thick confound you,
Put his arms unfailing round you;
God be with you till we meet again.

God be with you till we meet again;
Keep love's banner floating o'er you,
Smite death's threatening wave before you;
God be with you till we meet again.


My dad's birthday on April 12 is fast approaching and with it more times of tears and longing. We have been working through a different world, marking milestones along the path, and finding our way without him by our sides. As much as we struggle in the journey, I am often afraid there is another who stumbles along very much alone. She does not cry and has become strangely silent. I find I am beginning to miss my mom almost as much as I miss my dad. I hope she knows how much I really love her.

Adding Up

Okay, so now what? Now what do I do? I am slowly learning to drive this "new truck" but it has some features that are still very unfamiliar. Where do I go for advice? Who do I talk to? How do I make sure I am doing what is best?

There are many days when I wish my mom's hearing was a bit keener. It would make talking of such things much easier...

It Isn't Just for Breakfast?

So, what do you eat for breakfast? Does coconut cream pie make a good breakfast? No? How about cake? It has fruit cocktail in it... and 2 cups of sugar. Well, I decided to make myself some scrambled eggs today and topped my toast with apple butter. Better than pie or cake, I suppose.

Some of my usual breakfasts-
1. Rice Chex with bananas and raisins (or fresh blueberries)
2. Oatmeal with milk, butter, and brown sugar
3. Eggs and toast
4. gluten-free waffles (though I don't think I can afford to be gluten-free)
5. Cream of rice fixed like oatmeal
6. Bananas and Clementines

I do like a cup of coffee sometimes (it's always sneaking back) or a cup of tea with a half spoon of sugar stirred in. Once in a great while I have some orange juice.

Kitty Toes

I feel as though I am stepping gingerly through the process of familiarizing myself with affairs that for all of my life have been "none of my business". It's kind of like "licking the butter knife". There are some things Mom taught me that will be with me for the rest of my life. (I have licked the knife, but never without hearing that little voice in the back of my head telling me no.)

I am learning as I go, but find more often than not a wishing deep within that my dad was here to tell me how all of this goes. Mom appears to know little more than me and that is what scares me most. I put her phone number on the "No Call" list (telemarketers prey on the elderly) and have finally acquired the paperwork needed for her property tax rebate. I can not believe the hoops seniors must jump through! Tomorrow I have a meeting at the bank. Hopefully this will shed some light on what she has had coming in and going out the past six months, and what she has to work with for the remainder of her days. Your prayers would be appreciated as I attempt to climb this new mountain. I didn't sleep much last night. (Do I have any sisters that would like to meet me at the bank in Pittsford tomorrow at 1pm?)

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday to My Darling!

Once upon a time he was someone else's little boy. I'm so glad she shares him with me. (Thanks, Mom.)

I did not bake a pie, though I still intend to (maybe Thursday...), instead I think I shall whip up a coffee cake to enjoy when he and the kids return home from an outing to the bowling alley. I wonder if he will decide to go on being forty-six or start going backward instead along with me...

Grandpa's Garden

Grandpa's gardens are resting quietly by the side of the house, waiting. Last year they grew carrots, beets and beans, peppers, tomatoes, and very likely squash. A scarecrow, who looked amazingly like Dad, was there to "scare away" little rabbits, and there was a little rabbit who found himself in a heap of trouble after nibbling on Dad's vegetables. And, of course, there was Dad who lovingly tended his garden, compared notes with Bethany and me (encouraging the amateur gardeners in the family), and who was more than happy to share of his bounty.

I have a renewed quest to make my own little square foot gardens successful. It was Dad's enthusiasm that got us gardening and kept us at it and somehow, I still want to grow a garden he would be proud of.

I have a sneaking suspicion that even if Dave and Leta are too preoccupied with work and babies, there will still be a little garden tucked between the next door fence and the side of Mom's house. How could we let Grandpa's gardens lie idle after all the work he put into making them? Besides, nobody likes a fresh tomato sandwich better than Grandma!

He Is Risen

He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. Matthew 28:6

Eighty-Six

It is 20 minutes til five on April 3 and the temperature is 86 degrees? My snowdrops have melted, my crocus are crumpled, and my daffodils are blossoming like crazy. Every time I look out another one is in bloom. I only hope my dear daughter in law delivers as quickly as these pretty flowers. She is due on April 22. (Did you know I was going to be a grandma again?)

As much as I love summer, I would like a chance to enjoy spring. I will be happy tomorrow. The high temperature is forecast to be 62. We don't want to rush through spring too fast. (86! No wonder I feel like I'm melting!) It will be terribly disappointing when the temperatures return to normal. (What IS normal anyway? Does anybody really know?)

Yesterday I went grocery shopping. It was in the eighties and there was a sign by the produce saying that because of unseasonable cold temperatures in California, Texas, and Florida produce prices have skyrocketed out of control. (Okay, so that's not exactly what it said...) I opted not to buy too many salad fixings; no tomatoes or bell peppers, just leaves and a cucumber.

Happy Resurrection Day!

Wild Velcro Plant

In an attempt to clean out my flower gardens, I have raked leaves, pulled weeds, and clipped branches. While sprucing up the yard, we bagged dog doo and removed rodent carcasses. It is a race against time and temperatures. The warmer the weather the faster the flowers flourish, the grass grows, and small dead bodies stink. Some plants are not appreciating my efforts. Yesterday I was attacked by the vicious velcro plant. They were all over my elbow when I returned to the house.

April Fools and an Easter Parade

I did not fool anyone today or even attempt to. I'm not sure why not, maybe my imagination was taking a holiday or something. Maybe I was just too distracted by the sunshine, summer-like temperatures, my flower gardens, and small children. Then again, maybe there is still time...

It was party day at preschool. There were yummy snacks, a jellybean hunt, Easter bags full of goodies, and a parade. All the children were to decorate and bring an Easter bonnet for the parade. I wondered what kind of Easter hats the boys would wear? I found out that plastic eggs go well on a straw hat, and a paper cone carrot makes a wonderful outfit.
Of course the girls decorated with flowers. This one was my favorite and her little sister came with one just like it.

Finally Flowers

Some little spots of sunshine out in my yard. Note to self- must plant more crocus. I spent a little time outside raking leaves out of my flower gardens and soaking up some sunshine. The days are getting warmer and I am looking forward to gardens full of flowers and leaves on the trees.

Evening Sunshine

When the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to Him; and He laid His hands on every one of them and healed them.
Luke 4:40

I glanced out the window this evening to see the sun shining golden rays on the fields and orchards. It was one of those fleeting moments so difficult to catch with a camera. I am looking forward to this weekend when the forecast calls for temperatures that will lure us from our houses out into the sunshine. Maybe I'll even find some new spring flowers sprouting in my garden.

The Secret Cave

Last Monday was my birthday and a small package arrived in the mail from NY City. Inside I found a short note and a CD of a children's opera written by my friend Judy. (I already have a copy of her children's book.) She suggested I familiarize myself with the story before listening to the music, so I found a library book and read the story.

Set in France during WWII, "Twenty and Ten" is about a group of French children who are spending their days in the care of a nun up in the mountains. In the course of the story they are asked to help hide a group of ten Jewish children also. The secret cave comes in very handy. "Twenty and Ten" is a story of bravery and steadfastness in the face of danger and adversity. I very much enjoyed the story and was encouraged by its message. Now I need to finish listening to the music my friend sent. Who knows? Maybe someone will decide it would be a good show to do with some local children.

Through the Fog

"I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you." Isaiah 44:22

Dark and dreary; it was a good morning for sleeping. The fog rolled in mid morning and settled upon us like cool, wet blanket. The orchard trees appeared ghostly and cold. It would have been a perfect afternoon for sleeping too had it not been for all the traffic through the house between the hours of 1 and 3 pm. Both Emma and I gave up on catching a nap though Bella was able to get one.

The fog has moved on now leaving behind a cover of gray clouds and wet pavement. My sleepiness lingers and a warm shower is in order. It is Monday and tonight the folks at the nursing home will be awaiting our arrival. How many names can I remember tonight? Emily, Betty, Adelle, Dee, Lucy, Edna, Janet, Nancy, Kathleen, Florence, Mary,...

The Chicken Coop Oops

Six Months

It's hard to believe that we have been without Dad for six months already. Though I miss him every day and memories often put a lump in my throat, they still, more often than not, bring a smile to my face.

Life continues on and people and places change around us. It is the way of the world. We are here "but for a moment" and then pass on. I pray that I will learn the lessons God has for me along the way. I'm trying.

Running Around in Circles and Waiting Patiently

This morning I took Mom to have her taxes done. We appeared to be missing a couple of documents. I made a phone call from the library reception desk. The man on the other end wanted to talk to Mom. The librarian fretted over how long I would be "tying up the line". I hung up instead of getting Mom from the next room. We went to the bank. The bank said there weren't any documents for filing, not enough interest earned. We went home and called the first place back. Dad didn't withdraw money from the account so there was no document filed this year. (He always withdrew the money in December and wasn't here to do it this year.) We went back to the library to finish the tax return. We went to the town hall to file for a property tax rebate. I was missing another document (non-taxable income). We went back to the bank. We got nowhere. We went back home again. I felt impatient with the paperwork, but told Mom this is a learning process and once we know what we are doing things will be easier. I hope I am right.

The air is cold but the sun is shining and that is a good thing. My flowers are much more patient today than I. They are closed up tight to stay warm and wait silently, no whining or complaining, no feelings of irritation. They aren't worried about whether or not the sun will shine tomorrow. I am learning too, learning to wait and trust that God has everything under control. "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day [is] its own trouble." Matthew 6:34

Daffodil Praise

Hear the voice of my supplications When I cry to You, When I lift up my hands toward Your holy sanctuary. Psalm 28:2

It was bright and sunny yesterday but a cold wind stung my face and hands. My flower garden does not seem concerned over the weather. Fresh new shoots continue to stretch heavenward, reaching just a little higher each day. I couldn't help but think it appeared as though they were lifting holy hands to their God and Maker.

I am a rather private and reserved kind of person. I do not lift my hands in praise and worship during church. Though deep in my soul I want to, and I have done it, it is not my usual practice. It is my own pride that keeps my hands in my lap on Sunday morning and I am the one to suffer for it. Lord, forgive me. I want to praise You too.

I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;
1 Timothy 2:8

One Hundred Six

Today is my grandpa's birthday. We celebrated our birthdays together for most of my childhood (they're two days apart) though I wasn't always sure he knew it was my birthday too. (Silly child...) He's been gone for almost eleven years now but I can still close my eyes, imagine his "grandpa" smell, feel his arms wrapped tight around me, and hear him call me his "little rascal". And I still miss him.

I love you, Grandpa.
Happy Birthday!

Praise and Exaultation

For all people walk each in the name of his god, But we will walk in the name of the LORD our God Forever and ever. Micah 4:5

Last night I picked up a new book, one my husband found in the bookstore at church. It's just a little book, "Continuous Revival: The Secret of Victorious Living" by Norman Grubb. The book caught James' eye because a friend of ours had known Norman Grubb personally. Clif had been encouraged by Norman, and we were encouraged by Clif.

I want to walk with Jesus. I can not go back to yesterday and walk there and I can not reach into tomorrow. I must reach out this moment and take my Savior's hand; only in this moment can I follow in His steps.

I am learning something new about keeping my focus on Him. There have been and will be moments when I glance away and sink beneath the waves as Peter did, but in that moment I must make the choice to turn back, to look into my Saviors face, to call His name. He will never leave me nor forsake me.

Choice. He gives me the choice. He is always there waiting, waiting to walk with me if only I am willing to walk with Him.

Hot Potato

My chives are growing. They are small and tender. I hear them calling for baked potatoes, butter and sour cream.

Counting Down

This year I decided it was time to start counting birthdays backward, so rather than turning forty-six, I am going to be forty-four instead. In eight and a half years my son will have caught up with me and we will both be thirty-six. I figure that will be the time to have a great celebration. Maybe one day I will be young enough to once again play on the floor comfortably. Maybe my hip won't hurt when I get up to walk again. Maybe my eyes will focus properly! Yes, I am looking forward already to next year's birthday when I can plan on being forty-three!

Getting Along Without

I have found myself feeling emotional this past week or so. Lost sleep, raging hormones, and a change of seasons has left me feeling unexpectedly weepy. I miss my dad and so many things are bringing him into my thoughts. I sneaked into the attic bedroom while at Mom's house this afternoon, pulled some of Dad's clothes out of a box, put my face into them and took a deep breath. I wasn't alone long. I quickly put the boxes back in order, and went back downstairs.

I took Dad's diaries out of Mom's drawer, found the one I had been reading, took it out to the living room, and sat on the couch. I didn't read long. We had gathered for a family birthday and there was a lot of activity in the house. The kids were playing and Dave was cutting the cake. A birthday song was sung, and dessert was served. I tucked the little book back in its hiding place for another day.

My sisters have already celebrated a first birthday without Dad, now it is my turn. I'm not sure if it is my own birthday that is making me miss him so or the fact that his birthday will be here in just a few short weeks. It will be a year of firsts without my dad. I guess I can expect the tears to well up now and again. Maybe I just ought to keep one of his big red hankies in my purse for those teary occasions. I wonder if I might find one in those boxes upstairs?

Out and About

It was so nice out yesterday that I took the girls for a ride down to Irondequoit Bay to feed the birds before they take the bridge out for the summer. They had fun tossing bread to the ducks, geese, and swans and dipping the toes of their boots into the edge of the water. We ran out of crackers all too soon but a woman had been there just previous with a huge bag of bread and rolls so we picked a few of those off the beach and tossed them as well.

While Hannah and I kept an eye on the girls, Ben took a few pictures for me. Not only are there gulls and water birds, but a handful of pigeons were hanging around hoping for a morsel of bread too. I don't believe any of the birds were too hungry. They probably don't know what it's like to go without a meal.

After stopping to wash our hands we spent some time at a local playground. We crossed a footbridge over a creek to enter the park and I asked the girls if they thought a troll might live underneath. Bella smiled and said "Nooo!" but Emma suddenly became apprehensive. I'm happy to say we crossed the bridge safely and got to the field on the other side. The girls bounced from one piece of playground equipment to another, often losing each other in the process. Hannah kept her eye on one and I the other as they ran in opposite directions. One day we will have to pack a lunch and make a return trip.

The weather today was just as bright and sunny but quite a bit cooler.

Do They Grow on Trees?

I saw a sign for sale at Goodwill the other day and felt myself smile. It said, "If idiots grew on trees, this would be an orchard." It might not be a very nice thing to say, but my smile wasn't because I am surrounded by idiots, it was because I am surrounded by orchards. I think I'll go back and get one of those signs just for the fun of it.

The robins are back so, even though we are expecting a possibility of snow next weekend, I know spring is on its way. This robin was not pleased that I was in the orchard and let me know so in no uncertain terms. I was skirting Teal Lake and had no choice but to walk under her tree.