Margaret Manning McCracken.

So cozy the night before the funeral.

A very sad day passed in my family a few weeks ago when my grandma was able to let go & move on with her mortal journey. Though it was a blessing for her, the loss & heartache we feel is wrenching. It was a great opportunity to spend time with family & reflect on the greatest blessings of this life. As my aunt Margie said in her remarks at the funeral, we hit the jackpot when we were born into this family. It's soooo great. And a huge part of that is due to my grandma, who never (ever) said an unkind word to or about anyone, always had a cookie waiting & made you feel the most beautiful, special person on the planet. She & my grandpa made it 70 happy years together, & I'm going to spend the next 70 years trying to be more like her.

Another fun-fill autumn day was spent at the zoo with one of Mr P's best little buddies. It was chilly but nice, & lots of animals were out in full force. Including many babies! I came dang close to petting a giraffe that was within reach, but came to my senses. Although looking back, I probably should have, cuz who gets that chance twice in a lifetime?! Anyhow, good times, good friends.

Please Let Me In.....

A Workin' Man.

Mr P's latest thing is telling me that he always has to go to work. The job he's headed to varies depending on the day, but it's generally something involving something very large & motorized. Or fast. This particular day he wasn't disclosing where he would be working, but threw on one of grandpa's hats, grabbed the silverware basket from the dishwasher & headed to the front door. Upon questioning I was told he was late for work. Yes, even on a Saturday. Guess he takes after his dad there too.

Living Planet Aquarium.

Cami & I took Mr P out (pre-ear-infection knowledge) for a day of fun at Ikea & the aquarium. Turns out he really loves fish, eels, crabs & other sea life, wanted to get in with the sting rays & makes friends amazingly easily. (With kids & grown ups alike.) I was glad he had a good day before his 2nd ear infection in a month hit & he cried all night & day, thus breaking my heart & rendering me useless in disciplinary situations. Thank goodness he bounces back quickly & he'll probably be good as new for this weekend's many festivities. (Knock on wood!!)

My sister was in Seattle for work for a couple of weeks, so my dear friend Kim & I took the opportunity for a weekend trip to grace her with our company. It was so fun. SO fun. We did the usual touristy things cuz Kim had never been there & I haven't been for something like 10 years, so Space Needle, Pike's Place, a harbor cruise etc... We had tasty food, played some late-night Bingo, spent a couple of hours lost, did a lot of walking, utilized public mass transit & laughed quite heartily. Thanks to the sister's employer for the hotel room & rental car!!! I can't wait until they send her away again!!!

All Hallow's Eve.