Another beautiful, warm day! I love the early walks, but I did notice today was warmer even early in the morning. My sweet hubby made breakfast today and then I got busy on my project. I finished it by 9:30 am so that tickled me. I got some grocery shopping done and can do some cooking today. Yesterday we ended up going to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. So lovely! A quiet evening at home capped a very busy day. Today is a little quieter and I hope I can start getting back on schedule a little more. While I worked on my project I recalled some of the fun things with my grandson Gabe. He is such a sweet little boy. He was four months old when they got here, and eleven months old when they left. It has been fun to watch him roll over, scoot, crawl, and pull himself upright. He has a warming grin and loves to play Pat-a-Cake. He also loved my Little Green Frog song. I miss his funny noises when he wanted attention. I look forward to some pictures on their blog. I have some wonderful memories of their time here and I'm thankful we had that opportunity. Hope your day is delightful.

Gorgeous Day!

I slept so well last night and woke up for an early walk. I added a block to my walk. It was so peaceful, a cool breeze, and delightful beginning to my day. When I got home, I made breakfast for my hubby and me. Then shower, dress, and prepare for my day. I worked on a few things and then went to JoAnn's for some things I need for a project. Later this morning I will attend a funeral for a neighborhood lady. Then the rest of the day I will see how much I can get done. There are always things to clean and projects, reading, and maybe something fun too. I hope your day has some delightful possiblilities too.

With Frank gone to girls' camp, I had a quiet evening just doing whatever came to mind. Loved it! Today I slept in a little, had breakfast, and went for a walk. I visited with a couple of neighbors that were pulling weeds along the way. After reading the paper, I played a game and then straightened the house. It seems odd not to have toys all over. Today I missed Adam's greeting of "Hi Pampa" (he calls both Frank and I Pampa); the patter of his feet; the "ABC" song (which he sings all the time); watching Sesame Street, Little Bear, and Yo Gabba Gabba; Adam's giggle; his coming in to play on our bed before going to his bed; His love of watching for airplanes out the front window or back door; His "Hi Airplane! when he spotted one; his "Bye Airplane" when they went out of sight; fixing PBJ's in triangles; watching something over and over because he loves it; his laughter when Grandpa tickles him; his hugs and kisses; and writing the alphabet over and over in crayon.
It is truly quiet. But today I'm getting reorganized and making plans for more projects. I have loved this past seven and a half months, and I'm going to love the next months because there are so many special things to do. Tonight we will be tending some grandchildren and enjoying their special smiles. Life is good.

Farewell

After arising at 5 am we packed Grandpa's car with dog in crate, suitcases, backpacks, and various necessities for the trip to Maryland. Grandma's car held two grumpy little boys who did not understand why they were awakened so early, their nervous Mom, and a Grandma who needs to enjoy the time we've had together. We took the dog to the cargo building and got her checked in. Then we went to the airport. PEOPLE, PEOPLE, and more people. Lots of missionaries flying out too. I watched the boys while Amie and Frank went to check on the flight and check in luggage. They gave Frank a special pass so he could go through security and help her to the gate. I do not envy a four-hour flight with two little boys. She is well prepared so hopefully they will do all right. The gray, rainy day reflects my mood in a way so I am going to look back to remember the good days. Amie will be my focus today. She is cheerful, and excited about life. She is so playful with her sons. She is an excellent Mom and I am amazed at her energy in taking care of her boys. She is easy to get along with and brightens my day. After seven months together we are still friends. She tries to please others and goes the extra mile. She is a good cook and is branching out with new skills. Loved her homemade cherry pie, even though I couldn't have very much. She has taught me new skills, especially with the computer. I appreciate her willingness to help and her special, dimpled smile. Here's a hug for you Amie! May your adventures in Maryland be wonderful!
Now I'm thinking about what I can do in this long day ahead. I think a trip to JoAnn's might just be the ticket. I'm sure I'll find plenty to do, but my thoughts will be with our sweet little Larkin family.
Amie and the boys made it safely to Maryland. She did get some help at the gate and they seated them right after the first-class passengers. That gave them a chance to settle in before the rest of the passengers loaded. The boys did pretty well. She said Adam did not take a nap---and he's been up since before 6 am. He'll be one tired little boy. He was excited to see his Dad, but he almost passed right by him. It will be good for them to get settled in their new home. It also helps that Dad has completed his first week of work. Now they can start a new schedule for their family.
I also had a great day. When I went to JoAnn's I found a neat little project to work on that I can send to them soon. It really lifted my spirits when I got this idea and gave me something exciting to do. I feel blessed to have something fun and interesting to do to fill the empty space around here. Now I can look forward to my days and appreciate the blessings of our family. I hope thaat those are blessings you can enjoy too.

Pack; Repack; Unpack

Our family room is strung with suitcases. The table is covered with post-it notes to remind to pack......... Sisters had a picture session to remind of the fun and laughter while little Sis was in Utah with us. Grandma is tending little ones while daughters get a last minute "Party time". In twenty-four hours it will all be a memory. Now e-mails, long distance phone calls, Facebook, and blogs will be eagerly anticipated to keep up on the latest doings of the Larkins. Since 5 a.m. comes too soon, I'm getting ready for bed. (HAHAHA) Tomorrow will begin a new phase in daily life--some good and some sad. We've been lucky that it was 7 1/2 months instead of the original plan of two months. We'll just enjoy the blessings.

Preparing for the Adventure

Amie got a phone call this morning telling her that her flight is Friday morning. There is certainly a lot to prepare and plan. The dog needs certification to fly and she is getting that today. Packing for a four-hour fight with two little boys has a lot of challenges. You can really acquire a number of things in seven months. Laundry, folding, packing. That will be the plan of action for the next two days. It's going to be so QUIET!!!

At the Zoo

Today was a fun day at the Zoo. Gabe and Adam loved it.
Bret was a huge help pushing strollers. Here he just relaxed .
Katie, Rachel, and Alex resting on the Big Cat statue . We enjoyed the animals, good weather, and a yummy lunch. It was a great day to celebrate my half-year birthday!