The older I get the more I aspire to be OK; I don’t have to be GREAT. Nor do I always trust being at that level of positivity. It’s a lot like riding a roller coaster; when you get to the pinnacle and look down, you realize, “Oh, oh, if I’m up this high, it’s a long uncomfortable ride down!” For that reason, I also value contentment over ecstatic happiness. Yesterday I took John to the airport in pouring down rain, yet by afternoon it was sunny and beautiful. I had no expectations of my day; as this Brandon Sanderson saying goes, “Expectations were like fine pottery. The harder you held them, the more likely they were to crack.”

This is the photo Sharky wanted to send to John, who was at SeaTac waiting for his flight to Denver. This 5-year-old has many interests: space, construction equipment, snakes and spiders and fighter jets. Since we visited the Museum of Flight last June with John, Sharky knows that John is a big fan of planes and would share his enthusiasm for this Blue Angels F/A-18C Hornet (“Holly”) that’s a replica of the one at the entrance to the museum. Incidentally, John is “enjoying” 90-degree weather in Denver for his aunt’s funeral. Poor guy isn’t thrilled with the heat and would be jealous of our current mid-50s sunshine!

It was such a lovely day that we spent most of the afternoon at Sharky’s school’s playground. We also ran around doing tag and played numerous rounds of 20 questions. In an awkward moment, Sharky went up to a parent who had his dog running around and inquired, “Did you know that you’re not supposed to have dogs in here? It says so on that sign.” (points at a very obvious sign) Thankfully, there was no ensuing confrontation. And good for Sharky! None of the children (or adults) want to step in dog poo or pee; for as many responsible pet owners as there are, an unfortunate number aren’t. Have you ever cleaned dog poo out of running/walking shoes’ soles? It is NOT easy or pleasant.

I’m delighted to report that Obro is back to his usual quirky, funny self. He’s such a hat lover!

I visited this little sweetie this morning along with his brother–who was moving too fast for me to capture a photo. Apparently, their dad now has a part-time job (good) which will affect how much he can help with the boys (bad). I anticipate a few issues and some unwelcome drama along the way…

This was the only piece of my mom’s jewelry that Older Daughter wanted. She wore it today and received many compliments. My mom would have been thrilled since it was one of her favorite necklaces. But the most meaningful comment came from Obro, “Mama, that’s a beautiful necklace!” Both OD’s boys were very close to Gigi and I hope they’ll remember her a little, even if it’s only through photos.
And now it’s off on a walk with NO umbrella or raincoat. Woo hoo!
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