Thursday

Spring break for local schools starts tomorrow. Isn't that a fine time to scoop up the oldest one of the grandkids  (I'll leave the scooping of the younger ones to the parents who are more sprightly and capable of scooping up small fry) and take her on an adventure? Yes it is. 

Knowing this much, you'll have figured out my whole day, because when you charge yourself with creating a week of solid excitement for an 8-year old, you have to prepare for it. At least I do! None of this spur of the moment deliberation. Preparing in advance (I have learned) is key to a smoother journey. Less time wasted, more options realized.

And so, on this spring day, I get very busy, sifting and winnowing, deciding what to pack. (This is a much different process than just packing/preparing for a solo journey. Much different!)

Outside, there is snow. Not unusual: our last freeze date is around May 15th. That means that any night before that date can bring down a snow cover. It will melt. We are unbothered.

(Speak for yourself, say the hens!)

Breakfast, with two cats staring out, wondering if they got their calendar dates mixed up.

And then I get to work, keeping very busy until it's time to pick up Snowdrop.

(on my way, I pass these guys; note how quickly the snow has melted)

She is here after school...

(soooo excited!)

.... but not for terribly long because one job for us is to pack up her little suitcase at her house. We'll be leaving tomorrow right around lunchtime (she'll spend the morning in school) and I want everything to be neatly in place by then.

(Hey Sparrow, you're Assistant Parent for next week!)

(Hey Sandpiper, go easy on your parents! No more screwdrivers up your nose!)

And now I am back at the farmhouse. Last night I cooked up a pot of chili for Ed. Tonight though, I take greater care, baking up some fish, fussing with the veggies and salads.  And enjoying, albeit wistfully, my evening with him on the couch. We exchange our usuals: why do you have to go? why dont you want to go? Neither of us wants an answer. These are statements of a simple truth: I travel, he does not. He sails, I do not. And still, our moments together, here at the faremtte, are without question exquisite. So be it.

Must get some rest! Tomorrow is a very busy day!

With love...