Happysad

Today I knew it was fall. When Gus and Hazel came to bed very early this morning, they were cool to the touch. We finally caved and turned on the heat even though they wear warm and permanent coats. I finally had to cave and put on real shoes. The sun didn't shine all day long and the first breath of morning air was so crisp it warmed my bones. I've been patiently waiting for a day like this...gray so the changing trees pop, chilly enough for for a sweater and a mug of afternoon tea, but still nice for a brisk end of day walk. It was good to clear my head and get in some steps and to be reminded of how good it is to do so.

Last night we celebrated our 30th anniversary. We kept the fanfare to a minimum opting for a toast, some well aged cheese, and a quiet night at home together. A little outing is in the works for the weekend, but the truth is, it's the extraordinary ordinary I cherish about the life we live together. Thirty is only a milestone because it's one more year than twenty-nine. That is to say that every year is it's own landmark, and each day an event.

We are in this new empty nester place. I tell newbies that it's not so bad. I can say that because my kids are connected and close in proximity. This past weekend Casa Wags was good and full. Lily and her roomies were home for a memorial for another roommate's mother. Circumstance aside and cancer be damned, I was happy to have them and to be the hub. I made an overflowing crock of tortilla soup and Mike made queso. They gathered around the kitchen island and then retired to the family room to watch the Brewer's last chance. Mike and I retreated to the little sitting area in our room to give them some space. I love this corner of our room where we have our Edith and Archie arm chairs and an ottoman to share...a cat on each lap. Gus and Hazel needed a little break from Manny and Murphy who arrived the night before. On that front, Murph's introduction to the gang was mostly seamless. Our two were a tad out of joint, but there were enough toys and commotion to distract her, and well, Manny is the man and nothing bothers him.

The service was Saturday afternoon on the most beautiful gift of a day. Dawn touched countless people with her kindness. That lead to a full church and a school reunion as she was a consummate volunteer even while she was fighting for her life. The eulogies were heartfelt and beautifully celebrated the person she was. It was good to be with so many honoring her too short life. 

Sunday was dreary and chilly as if on cue. I saw the girlies off early with what was left of the soup and orchard apples and all the bakery they didn't eat. And always toilet paper. Sunday was slow going just as it should be. Ted and Meryl arrived just in time for the Packer game hungry after a weekend of traveling for a wedding. Lucky for them I had the fixings for choriqueso and their favorite couch. Getting to spend quality time with all the kiddos and kittos last weekend filled me up. A full house is a happy house and the longer I live, the more that rings true.