August 17, 2025 Respite

 It's over.

Dear friends of ours invited us to their annual popper party this evening. Randy, I felt, deserved a break so I encouraged him to go as I am exhausted in every way.

My sister was celebrated, with all 8 remaining siblings present, along with both large families. When it became too "people-y" for me, I'd find a quiet place where I could step back a little and still see who was coming in, trying not to miss anyone I needed to acknowledge. At a few of those moments, my Grand 2 would appear with a hug and a kiss on my cheek. I swear he had radar! I'd dreaded that day so much, and am much relieved to have it in the past.

My kids, Randy, and I closed ranks and retreated home rather than going to the meal following. It was hot, and we were pretty drained. The dogs were so happy we were home, and a bit of meal prep chaos took the edge off a difficult day.

And now, our family is all gone, leaving us with a fridge full of leftovers. True to form, I dealt with the quiet by running the dishwasher, making beds, cleaning out the dog's "room", washing his blanket, Lambie, and the pad cover. The carpets are swept, the kitchen restored, and I'm in my pajamas.

One thing that struck me was each person's reaction during the service and visitation, especially family. It's all as individual as each one, like no two personalities are exactly the same. A plethora of similarities but with differences in perspective perhaps. it isn't that one is better than the other; it's all as unique as we are. 

I'm craving some normalcy as much as a break in the heat. The summer feels like it completely left us behind as we concentrated so hard on taking care of business at hand, following our trip. I'm so glad we went when we did! It is all bit surreal that football season is upcoming and the boys will be back in school. It's certainly not a typical transition into fall.

In all of this real life we've experienced, I need to be quick to say how grateful I am. We have been completely surrounded by love, support, encouragement, empathy, and inspiration. We are blessed beyond measure and I will never, ever take that for granted. It all came when we needed it the most, and in some cases, when we didn't even know we needed it.

A very special thanks to my readers, for allowing me to just say it, whatever it is, and forgiving me if I meander. 

Don't take any day for granted. ☘

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