Sigh

So, the party ended.  Everyone had a great time.  They all left and went to their homes.  Arrived safely and started enjoying the rest of their summer.

We haven't taken time to actually rest yet, even though it has been a week since it all ended.  We've been slowly trying to put things back in place.  Take the extra leaf out of the dining table; fold up the junior table; unclothe the dessert table; freeze leftover pork; milk; cookies.

We draw each other's names every year and this year my present came from Steve, the oldest son.  He gave me, among other nice things, a cd called: Pickin' on Zepplin.  Led Zepplin is his favorite group and since I have been entranced by bluegrass for the past few years (because of Billy Strings) he decided this cd would make a great gift for Mom.  Well, he is correct.

I've been driving around listening to it in my car.  Driving up the peninsula and stopping at the art gallery inside Old Mission Tavern.  and yes, having lunch there as well.  Going for a pedicure after my workout at the gym and ignoring the computer world.

Vegging out in front of the tv for the Republican National Convention and trying to find something in Donald Trump to tell me he's the one to vote for.....no luck in that regard.  What a mess we are having in politics.  I hate to see the Clintons back in the WhiteHouse because I know they are both untrustworthy, but I am going to vote for her.  I have to do whatever I can to keep Donald out and if I am forced to vote for someone I do not want to vote for, then so be it.  Lesser of two evils.

Christmas In July

Because of the Winter roads, we decided to have our family gather for Christmas In July.  Last year, 2015 was the first.  This year we will all be together on July 16, 2016.  Jocelyn is 3 now.  She is, of course, the delight of the family.

I hope they can all make it.  Sometimes they can't.  Everyone is older now and you know, have their own lives to live.  Some go to Mexico to help in orphanages, some go to Nepal.  Most work as teachers so they have the summers off.

The television music station plays Christmas in July music,  which I make sure is on and playing for them when they arrive.  Last year we had some decorations up and a small tree.  This year less, but still some.  Last year I worked for weeks fixing favorite dishes and freezing them only to be disappointed when the day arrived, so am not doing that again.  Matt, who teaches here now, has promised to help me with the cooking.  I am not doing much, really I'm not.  He plans to help fix pepperoni rolls....traditions are hard to break...it seems.


July of 2017 we took everyone to MiCafe and each ordered what sounded good.  It was easier on me.  Back in the condo opening presents and having fun just talking and laughing together was wonderful.  I am just so happy they all still enjoy each other's company enough to want to do that.

Dale took over all the planning and we started with Pizza in the Park on Friday eve.  It was cold and windy, but we cut the watermelon and smiled, consumed most of the pizzas and hurried back to the house.  Jocelyn is 4 now and I think her favorite present was a dress Summer....costume really...brought back from Mexico, or maybe it was Nepal.  Brianna couldn't be with us again.  She was off to Peru for an 18-month job.  Chelsey joined us for the first time.  She and Matt are engaged and planning a September 2018 wedding.   Growing Family for sure!