Connecting with Our Peeps

My, my, my. We haven't had a social calendar like this in, well...ever. We have so many parties, dinners and lunches planned between now and when we leave. So much to look forward to. The excitement of our trip preceded by spending quality time with all of our loved ones.

On one hand I feel grateful for all the plans because it's the impending absence that has inspired my own effort. On the other, I feel guilty for not doing it sooner. Why does it take something so drastic as a move to enlighten us? Probably because we work ourselves to death. Isn't it funny how we go about our lives rushing from here to there executing all the professional and domestic duties with such tenacity that we don't leave time for our own personal relationships? Sure, it's important to get things done and also to relax at home but it's also important to foster our friendships and family connections. I've tried to maintain my own life in addition to the demanding role of wife and mother. It really can swallow a person right up.

I have a grandfather whom I adore. He lives 5 or so miles away. I have met him at the bakery for breakfast a time or two and sang for him at the family reunion but I haven't been to his house in over ten years. I cannot leave this valley without spending some time with him. He is the one who inspired my love of maps and who made me so fascinated with Arizona. He was the first "snowbird" I ever knew. At the age of 12, I vowed to be one myself.

Last weekend I went out with some girlfriends. We had way too much fun. Nuff said. Thanks Kaye, Rhonda and Jodie. It's going to be tough not having Girls Night Out. Maybe Eli will wear heels and listen to Joan Jett with me if I get the GNO blues.

Last night we had a dear friend, Ken, up for dinner. As an extra bonus, he brought his grandson, Keenan, up to play with Jonah. I'm worried about Jonah not having playmates in Arizona. I'm going to make a special effort to stalk a family with boys around his age. It won't be weird at all. Pfff.

Tonight I'm making dinner for a family that is very special to me. I've known the Lowrances for over 20 years. They were my neighbors to start with but have become like family. The littlest one in the family wants lasagna so that's what I'm making. We're all hoping Kylie and Taryn will make it down from Bellingham.