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13 Charlie Days Don and I spent almost half of June's days, with this Funny Face.  Charlie's mom and dad had 2 trips and we did lots of babysitting. Older Faces The end of the month was spent with these family faces.  It's been 5 years since my sibs and spouses gathered for a Michigan reunion. On the Road The month began with Charlietime. We picked her up in Austin and brought her to our house, for 2 different visits. 4 drives with a 3-year-old and 4 without.  The Charlie drives were much more entertaining. Lots of singing and endless gleeful announcements, when Charlie spotted water towers, flags and cows! Hanging Out Charlie kept us busy, mostly hanging out close to home. Cooking, swimming, piano and just a tiny bit of TV. Movie clips from classic musicals! The Grandparents were successful in creating a new Gene Kelly and Esther Williams fan! Michigan Don and I left the Texas heat in mid June and flew to Detroit.  We stayed in an inn, that was once Frederick Sterns' mansion. We dined at Mario's, an iconic Italian restaurant that I last enjoyed when I was 16. St. Clair and Port Huron We spent a night in a nearly 100-year-old hotel, on the St. Clair River.  The Inn's river views were entertaining! Then, we drove further north, to enjoy a peek at Lake Huron. And another epic dining experience, at an 88-year-old restaurant! Ann Arbor From Detroit, we headed to Ann Arbor and stayed a night at the Stone Cottage Inn. Next night at The Graduate. It was called "Campus Inn" when I attended my HS prom there, in 1975!
Don and I have fond memories of this wonderful college town, since we both lived in Ann Arbor, 50 years ago... a few years before we met in St. Louis. Places Don went to U of M for 2 years. I lived in Ann Arbor the same 2 years, finishing high school. Our memories are different, but we love going back and exploring. So many wonderful places we both remember. People The best part of the visit, was spending time with some special people. I've known Lorie for a half century.
It was fun to talk and laugh in person again. We did a lot of that, back in Huron High days! My brother Chris and SIL Karen, spent 2 nights with us in Ann Arbor. Chris and I share some fun Ann Arbor memories.  A lot of them revolve around restaurants! Food in Michigan We revisited Ann Arbor's Fleetwood Diner. The last visit for Don and me was in 1980, after we were married.  Chris took the current photo. We've changed, but the diner has changed little. We made a few toasts and enjoyed a few meals, in Ann Arbor... ...before traveling on to the old German town of Frankenmuth. Northport Eventually we made our way to Northport, where we united with our other siblings and spouses.  We spent time exploring small towns near Lake Michigan and absorbing the cool temps. Mostly the 8 of us hung out together, along with a few special dogs. Lots of good food and converstaion. I already miss this gang! We finished up the month of June, with a beautiful sunset.  Good bye, Michigan! Good bye, June 2024!
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Surprise 1 The month started with a May Day surprise on the porch!  Actually not really a surprise. For quite a few years, we've had these "surprise" deliveries from a sweet family that lives nearby. Always a good start to the month! Surprise 2 My second surprise was a visit from my daughter and granddaughter, a week before Mother's Day.  This was going to be a total surprise, but Heidi realized I might better enjoy the weekend visit, if I knew a day or 2 before. Anticipation is part of the fun! Hanging Out We had a few fun days hanging out at the house and going to brunch and lunch! We pulled in a little Cinco de Mayo celebrating as well! I didn't take our get-together for granted. I've celebrated 38 Mother's Days and half of them have been long distance. I've learned to adapt to kids living far away, just as my mom did with me... and her mom did with her. Indulged Mom On the real Mom Day a week later, I enjoyed some more.
Surprise flowers and surprise gift certificates from the kids! Scott and Cha called from California and we gabbed forever. They explained my "Float Spa" gift. A couple weeks later, I spent an hour in a floatation pod with 1,000 pounds of epsom salts!
The air and water was equally warm and music and colors made me feel like I was in dream! A good and relaxing dream, of drifting in space! Mother's Day Picnic The rainy weather on Mother's Day was almost comical. Don and I did some of our own celebrating, with some of my favorite fast food. 
 I posed at the park with a gator, remembering Mother's Day a year ago when we had a live alligator swimming the lake behind our house! The Gulf Coast In mid May, Don and I drove just over an hour to Galveston Island.  We spent a couple nights enjoying the coastal resort city, before tourist season. We stayed at Hotel Lucine, a newly remodeled 1963 motel.  We had the hotel pretty much to ourselves. It was nice to see the beach as well as the historic city, before the crowds and heat moved in. A few photos below show our hotel and restaurants and the Bolivar Ferry. After 2 nights in Galveston, we hit the road again. East Texas We drove the straight & flat roads near the coast, then ended up on hilly, tree-lined highways further north.
What a contrast, driving in east Texas. We explored the original route of El Camino Real and walked on trails made by wagons and animals, hundreds of years ago. Fredonia in Nacogdoches We stayed at another mid-century modern hotel.  Despite some major storms, we had a couple of fun days relaxing at the hotel, in the Oldest City in Texas. Exploring We explored the historic city as well as some towns, just down the road. After a total of 4 nights away, we returned home feeling like we'd been gone a month! Relaxing in Fort Worth I squeezed in one more Texas trip, later in May.  This one was to Fort Worth to spend some time with old friends.The 4 of us hardly needed to leave Christy's home. It was an oasis. 2 Nights We needed more than 2 nights to catch up. I miss our monthly book club gatherings, back when we all lived in the same neighborhood. We often used to talk until 2 am. We made it to 1 am, the first night. We got out a bit for a meal or 2. But my favorite time was hanging out on the patio. Even the drive home with Shari was entertaining, with a "dining adventure" lunch stop, at Kissing Pigs Cafe! Friends at Home At the end of the month, Don and I were able to spend an evening with special friends back home.  This was a month for feeling grateful for family and friends. Some near and some far.  After a little running around in May, it was nice to be reminded that there are good friends right back here at home. Rain and Haze The month ended with some rainy days, followed by hazy ones. 
On the last day of May, the rain and haze cleared. I had another simple surprise, when I noticed the neighborhood kids had finished their last day of school and left a message on the sidewalk!
I love how this month started with a May Day surprise and ended with a surprise message on the sidewalk. Such fun reminders of my own simple childhood! Best April I can't remember an April that I didn't love.  All Aprils have my birthday, but I'm past that! This April was a totally different kind of special. "Eclipse Totality Texas" Early in the month we gathered with the kids at the cabin, to celebrate the total solar eclipse.
The gathering was nearly perfect... except we were missing a very important family member. Chali was in California, but she wore her shirt and stayed connected through FaceTime. 8-21-17 and 4-8-24 We've been looking forward to this celebration, since the last total eclipse 7 years ago. The first pic shows Don, Scott and Lola the pup in 2017. We watched from a cemetery in Tennessee. The second shows our Texas eclipse!
Back in 2017, Scott realized our cabin in Texas would be in the Path of Totality in 2024. We had the perfect place for eclipse viewing, high on the hill above our cabin, overlooking Lake LBJ. Pre-Eclipse Cabin Time There were predictions of Eclipse Chaos on Texas roads.  We arrived 2 days early, with lots food and drink and entertainment. No TV at the cabin, but we did have music. The same Eclipse Playlist from 2017, with moon & sun songs! The temperatures were perfect for hanging out. I tried to ignore weather predictions that called for clouds on April 8! Remembering Dad We used some of our time together, to have a sweet and simple remembrance for my dad.  This was the first time we'd been together since my dad's passing in December. Family celebrated with Dad on his 95th birthday, in September, but we never had real closure after his death. Raft, Notes & Flowers... Bubbles & Lemonade There was a stick raft involved and flowers and ashes. The ashes were actually from our written messages, which we burned. It felt just right. Charlie didn't understand our farewell exactly, but she knew the raft was for Great Grandpa. Dad would have enjoyed our light and playful celebration. April Flowers April wildflowers and butterflies were in rare form!
We did some wildflower appreciating and we did a little wildflower posing. Eclipse Day April 8 We were equipped for the day, with our certified eclipse glasses. So were a few animal statues! (Pearl the Squirrels from 2 days earlier!)
Our Totality Celebration pretty much lasted all day. Before noon, we packed up our goofy glasses and a cooler with special treats. Path of Totality IPA for the adults. Moon Pies and Sun Chips for all! On the hill above our cabin, we spent over an hour watching eclipse drama. There were only a few minutes when the moon totally blocked the sun, but the time before and after was filled with surprises as well. Birthday Time My birthday was on the 9th, but we started celebrating early.  On the evening of the eclipse, I opened gifts and wore one of them! A Twice in a Lifetime eclipse t-shirt! We toasted with Spellbound Eclipse Chardonnay. Storms came that night, making us even more appreciative of good eclipse weather! On my real birthday, we had a cozy, stormy morning. Then a little lunch and antique shopping in small-town Blanco. Then hail and tornado warnings that evening. What a dramatic end to our fun gathering! Babysitting A few days after our celebrating, Don and I headed back to Austin, to do some babysitting.  Charlie smiled big before saying bye to Daddy and Mommy. Don and I had Charlietime, while they attended an out of town wedding. We happily survived 3 busy days and 4 bedtimes, with this sweet kiddo. Charlie only cried once. That was when she accidentally dropped her bedtime Paci into the toilet. A traumatic (and sort of humorous) moment. End of Month Project I'll end the April post, with focus on a comical and cringe-worthy home project. Don assured me his Block and Tackle System would safely get these ancient 10-ton toys down from the attic.  I had to put all trust in Don and his system, as I guided that toy fridge down those wobbly stairs! Then the stove/sink.  Crazy that we saved these. Don and I made these toy appliances 30+ years ago. They need a little spiffing up and then we'll see...
Flowers in Texas The Bluebonnets appeared this month. A good time to stay in Texas!
 Don and I didn't leave the state, but we saw signs of spring all over Texas! Weddings! March 2024, was a month for weddings! Early in the month we traveled to the Olde Dobbin Station, in Montgomery.
It was wonderful to celebrate with my dear friend and neighbor... and Mom-of-the-Bride, Becky! In Houston, I celebrated with my friend Shari, the evening before her son was married.
The former home of President and Barbara Bush looked lovely after a rainy day. Ranch Wedding in Carmine Rain also threatened the wedding the next day. 
The sun came out just before the ceremony! The nearby animals enjoyed! The Mom-of-the Groom looked as spectacular as the setting!
Don and I enjoyed the western decor!
We all clearly enjoyed the fun celebration! Chicken Ranch in Brenham Attending a wedding, allowed us to have a little extra fun, in the town of Brenham. Don and I stayed with friends at the Dixie Motel!
Luckily most of the property (which began as a chicken farm) has been nicely refurbished. Fun to catch up with Lorrie and John! Aunt Jenni and Aunt Kate In mid March, my sister and sister-in-law came to Texas, from Oregon.
We spent a couple days at the cabin, where Kate gave her grand-niece a special gift.  The flamingo skirt made by Aunt Kate was a hit!
There were some under the weather moments... but it all worked out.   The National Park puzzle was completed! Hill Country The 4 of us spent some time traveling around the Hill Country. Fredericksburg had Easter decorations!
Sisterdale had a cotton gin and a couple of sisters. Gruene had some rain. 
 But we had a great meal at the Grist Mill. Comfort, TX We took Kate and Jennifer to our favorite small town in Texas.
We posed with signs. And we spent a night at the old Meyer Hotel, from the 1880s.  Jennifer and I loved seeing our family name, displayed above our dinner table.  We made use of the porches...
 ... and swings. Hanging Out at Home Back in Sugar Land the weather was warm enough for pool time.
The weather was even more perfect for hanging around with paints and books! Celebrations! We got in some celebrating. Oscar Night!
Kate and Jennifer made an early St. Pat's feast before they departed! Don and I had a quiet Easter on the last day of the month.
March offered a lot of celebrating, with family and with friends! I'll drink (coffee) to that!
Year of the Dragon! Don and I celebrated the Lunar New Year at home in Sugar Land, with some good Chinese food and a dragon... and a bear.  The next day was the Super Bowl and I have no photos and 2 days later was... Mardi Gras! We do love a celebration! And so does the Austin fam! So nice to drive only 2.5 hours to celebrate with them. A year ago, they were 2,000 miles away in Oregon.
Don and Heidi cooked up an amazing gumbo.  No photos of our Sazeracs, but the masks, beads and King Cake were photo-worthy! Valentine's Day The main reason we made the trip, was to be there there for Valentine's Day.
Heidi got up extra early to make this stylin' 3-year-old a special breakfast. Homemade Poptart and fruit!
It's a miracle that Miss Independent Girl was willing to put on a festive dress and tiara and pose for a few pics before heading off to school! She seemed excited about her day! Art in Austin On the way to Charlie's daycare, we spotted some Valentine art from the road! Made me chuckle!  In the afternoon, Don and I were back at "school" for a Valentine Party, for 2 and 3 year olds. What a hoot! Birthday Time! Then it was time for the next celebration. Valentine's Day was also Charlie's 3rd birthday, so there were presents to open.
There was time to play with toys and to eat a a little Indian food. Korma was Char's choice for dinner! Then it was time to sing and blow out the #3 candle!  She tackled her Birthday Cheese Cake, with a few techniques. Flamingos! It was all about flamingos for the next few days. I loved helping with bath and Charlie loved her new flamingo towel.
There were flamingo jammies and a hopping flamingo...
There was some dancing with the "furry" pink flamingo puppet!  Party! On Saturday there was a party with friends. The flamingo sweatshirt came off.
Charlie romped and climbed and played, (in her favorite her Jimi Hendrix shirt) before pizza and cake. Home At home it was fun to watch just a handful of kiddos and adults enjoying the evening.  I have a feeling these 3 little girls, are going to be amazing independent young women someday.  Just like their moms! Leigh (L) and Heidi, have been friends since they were about the same age as the daughters. 3 wonderful moms here! Days of Play Don and I kept Char home from school for a couple days, so we could play.
So happy the predicted rain held off. A year ago we celebrated the 2-Year Birthday in Oregon. There was a snow storm.   We enjoyed being outside with this little jumper, before heading back home! Pool Time? Back home we had work to do. Or workmen to watch.  After a few days of demolition, I took a swim in the mess of old tile and coping! Time at Home After months of being on the go, it was nice to have more home time in February. I've gotten back to the piano.  Instead of getting frustrated with my sloppy skills, I've been creating my own music, instead. Never a mistake if it's all improvised! That clashing note was supposed to be there! Old Boxes I had time for a little memorabilia sorting. I studied my parent's old wedding photos and felt happy instead of sad. Yes, they were divorced. Yes, they have died. But I'm grateful that I witnessed their sweet reunion in 2005.
I found my grandmother's wedding announcement and my great grandmother's wedding invitation. What treasures! Time to Explore Sometimes I forget that I don't have to go on a trip to explore.  With more home-time this month, I discovered this school in Booth, Texas.  Just a 15-minute drive from our house! What an amazing property from 1912! Slow Progress Work on the pool progressed with decent February weather.
 I was totally entertained through the windows!  By the end of the month we had fresh plaster, tile and coping. In March, we'll replace dead plants and get the patio deck refreshed!  As we end February, it's too cold to swim, but we at least have water to look at! Cheers to the hot months ahead!
Happy at Home! After such a busy and emotional December, we eased into the first day of January. A lazy day starting with Rose Bowl parade. Then we cheered on Michigan. Funny. I don't even like football.  I didn't have the proper shirt, so I wore Don's old U of M rugby shirt!  A week later, we dressed up a bit more and went to dinner. It was the night before Michigan played Washington in HOUSTON! You never know if any celebs will be in town for the National Championship.
There was a festive buzz of energy and we kept a look out. No celebs sighted, but we chatted with many people wearing maze and blue. And we ate well. Getting Out The beginning of January, offered good weather. I stopped rolling my eyes and played Pickle Ball for the first time. I had to admit, it wasn't dumb, it was fun and I was pooped after 90 minutes.
I did a thing I haven't done in a million years. I went clothes shopping with a friend. Shari found a gorgeous Mother of the Groom dress at the Galleria! I love shopping when I'm not the one trying on clothes! Weather January weather was lovely, until it wasn't.  This photo was taken in mid January, the evening before our big freeze. We lost some plants but kept the pipes from freezing. Cabin Time We managed to avoid frozen pipes at the cabin, too. Which is very good, since we had visitors!
Charlie came to the cabin for the very first time. It was fun to see her reactions as she discovered things.
Rocks!
Puzzles and games! We had a quick lunch outing...
Charlie kept busy, but she did pause for some Mommy time.
And we all relaxed and stared at the fire. So much better than a TV. Charlie helped with real cooking... and pretend cooking.
The iron stove was one that her great-great-grandmother played with as a child. It had been a salesman's sample! What a cozy visit. Heading West On January 22, Don and I left the cabin and headed west. 
We stayed at a favorite hotel of ours in Van Horn, Texas. Saguaro Picnic We made sure to allow enough to time in Arizona, for a visit to Saguaro National Park.  What a perfect place for a winter picnic... and posing with cactus characters. Quartzsite, AZ So glad we had time to stop and explore this unusual town!
We visited the grave/monument for Hi Jolly. Hi was not a camel, but he was a camel driver from Syria. Hi died in Quartzsite, in 1902. 2 Nights in Tucson We spent 2 nights in the same city, which we rarely do while traveling. Lodge of the Desert was a little oasis. It started welcoming guests in the 1930's.
Of course we changed it up and stayed the second night at a totally different kind if place. Casino del Sol. "You booked us in a casino, Don?"
But we had fun, jumping from one kind of atmosphere to the next. Slot machines to tiki bars! Food & Drink in Arizona I packed a couple of "just in case shirts". (click to enlarge) You never know when you'll need a western shirt, or a tiki shirt. Villa Royale in Palm Springs The real destination of our road trip was to see our son and daughter in law in CA, So why not stay at the hotel they told us about last year?
It was just as heavenly as they described. Palm Royale was indeed a retro oasis. We lucked out and hit it on their monthly Paella Night! What a feast! Upper Lake, CA We drove through Upper Lake a few years ago, and were drawn to the old hotel.
This time we got to spend a night at the historic Tallman Hotel. What an evening with dinner and live music at the hotel's restaurant. I even danced with some locals! (click to enlarge) In the morning, we had breakfast along with the musicians, from the night before. Then we hit the road. The Coast Big rains were starting to roll in, when we checked into Heritage House, south of Mendocino.
We explored the historic property and took in some incredible views, before the rains hit that night. Napa We had a rainy drive to Napa the next day. Most go to Napa for the wineries. We were content to just stay put near our hotel, which had once been a milling complex. We wandered with umbrellas.
We dined at a sweet French restaurant, spotted a curious octopus near the river and saw the sun peek out the next morning. Sacramento with The Kids! Our meandering road trip was fun, but the real reason for the trip was to see Scott and Chali. It's hard having them so far away!
Hanging out in their home, is always my favorite. Lola the pooch loves the attention and we get to catch up, without distraction. But we did get out for walks in the park and we even had a fun trip wandering through the neighborhood hardware store!
And there was a brunch, at Bacon & Butter. What a name! Cha Time And I had some time with Chali!  She invited me to my very first Sound Bath experience. Soothing, with curious instruments and magical meditation! I finally got to see a movie at Sacramento's old Tower Theatre!
I love old theatres and movies and popcorn! Don and Scott were back home, enjoying some football. Family! It was a good start to the 2024. A little quiet home-time and then some travel.
But, the absolute best part of January was the time spent with The Kids, in Texas and in California. How lucky I feel to have family that we enjoy, so very much. I of course wish we all lived closer. It's especially tough saying good-bye when you'll soon be nearly 2,000 miles apart. But we have a lot of sweet (and fruity) memories to enjoy... until we get together next!
Dad and Charlie Time This photo is not from December, but it captures my bittersweet feelings about this past month. I'm so grateful I was able to spend time with the oldest and youngest members of my family...  December began with focus on Dad. My sister and I spent the first week of the month, at Dad's bedside. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming, sad and touching... so many emotions. When things felt extra tough, I reminded myself that I would be seeing my granddaughter over the holidays. Charlie is the happiest distraction ever. I'm so grateful that Dad was able to have fun with her, 3 months ago. Dad Time This is the Happy Blog, so I won't talk about the darkest moments of our time with Dad. The good parts are shown below.
Jennifer and I were nervous as we headed from the airport to the hospital, but we found Dad alert and with a sense of humor. We laughed and said no to a 6-pack of beer. Dad chuckled over some phone videos and smiled to see photos of his kids from the 1960's.
After one night in a hotel, we returned to the hospital early and "moved in". Staff brought another couch and extra food. (Jennifer's sling came a couple days later) Dad mostly slept that first full day, but we got our brothers on the phone when he rallied. When we sisters were worn and ready for bed, Dad suddenly woke and surprised us with a stronger voice. He had much to say, as he shared stories for nearly an hour. Jennifer pulled out her iPad wth an album of Dad's childhood photos. The images triggered more memories. He talked about his brothers and his pretty mother and funny memories of Halloween stunts from his youth. He spoke warmly about his childhood dogs, Skippy and Shep. Final Days Dad's doctor didn't know how many days he had left. 2-20 is a big span. Dad basically "slept" for the next few days. Jennifer and I slipped away to his assisted living apartment. Staff greeted us warmly. We found "Welcome Back" notes on Dad's door. It was tough breaking the news (especially to his biggest fan, Annie) that he wouldn't be returning.
It wasn't easy (physically or emotionally) rushing to clean out Dad's apartment, while he "rested" a few miles away. But we had good moments, when we found old photos and curious books. Annie was excited when we shared his "Obama Box". She reminded us how thrilled she was when she spotted him wearing an "End Racism" hat. The hurried job got even tougher, when Jennifer slipped off a stool. After getting a temporary cast at Dad's hospital, we were back at the apartment the next day, quickly finishing up. Good Bye Dad On December 8th, Jennifer and I got a hotel room for the night. A nurse called before 4 am the next morning, to say our father had died. I guess Dad just needed some peace and quiet, from his slumber party daughters...
We headed to the hospital to say good-bye. There's nothing Happy about that. But the smiling moon and decorations tried to cheer us. And the chilly air seemed to slap me with a shot of courage. I was relieved to step into empty elevators and quiet halls. I was so very glad to have my sister with me, to face the moment we knew was coming. Kisses, hugs, tears... Grateful for This One Jennifer and I tied up loose ends before we headed to the airport. We drove by our grandmother's house and stopped for a quick selfie, near the stone post we used to climb. Daw's house was our anchor, when our family moved frequently. We stayed in her cozy home, whenever we visited our Springfield relatives. So many memories.  In recent years, Jennifer and I have met up in Springfield numerous times to visit and care for Dad. On December 9, we stood on our favorite corner in Springfield and wondered when we'd ever be together in this town again. I don't like thinking about that. But, I'm glad we snapped the photo. It's a reminder of just how lucky I am to have this sister of mine, who laughed and cried with me for a week... and broke her arm and kept going. Love you Sis! Happy Dad Days I've shared some heavy stuff for a Happy Blog. So here's a slideshow, with happy pictures of Dad. There are a couple photos from when Dad was a boy and others from when he was a young dad. There are photos with grandkids and his 2 great- grandkids. The most recent photos are from his 95th birthday in September. When I feel the saddest, I remember how we all celebrated, so recently! I'm so happy to have those memories. December Part 2 There was a foggy week between my farewell to Dad and my much needed hello to Charlie. Knowing the the house would be full of energy and happy noise, got me through!  I brought a grumpy/sad mood and nagging cold home from Springfield, but there was no time to pamper myself. I still had unpacking to do from Europe and I hadn't started shopping or decorating. My lack of patience was evident, when I found myself ranting over ripped wrapping paper or glaring at long Post Office lines. The way I yanked at the vacuum cord as I raced to clean, showed I was not in the holiday spirit. But suddenly it was the 19th and Charlie and her parents changed everything! Zoo Light Adventure! We got into the holiday spirit quickly, with an early Christmas gift from Charlie's Uncle Scott and Aunt Cha! Tickets to Houston's Zoo Lights! It was just what we needed! It was a colorful night, with illuminated creatures and a few real animal sightings! The carousel might have been Charlie's favorite! Dining Out We had 9 days together, so we were able to fit in a few restaurant outings.
Dumplings and lollipops were a hit, at Mori Sushi! Schnitzel and live music at Rudi Lechner's! (click to enlarge) Don was in heaven with his boot-of-beer!
Charlie loved the music! Alpenhorn and accordion! She tipped well. Home-cooking There were no Christmas cookies in the house until Heidi arrived.  The house was filled with wonderful smells every day! We ate well!! Ready For Christmas On Christmas Eve the stockings were hung. We were missing Scott and Chali's stockings this year. But happy to know they were with family, in Thailand.
The Christmas Crab was also hanging and ready to be worn! You never know who might get crabby and need to wear the plastic crab necklace! Charlie was up and ready at 7. We all wore jammies, all day long. Some of us added hats, when the sun poured through the windows and made us squint through gift opening. 9 Days I'm so grateful that we had so many days together. I needed some festive distraction. There was time for the park and the piano. Lots of time for play. I needed that. Skippy I loved the happy distraction, but I also loved the precious reminders of Dad, throughout the holidays. Charlie for some reason wanted me to read the "Skippy" book to her, numerous times a day. After a couple of days, Charlie was "reading" it to me.
This is the book that my dad made for his grandkids in 1989. (My brother did the illustrations) It's the story of a boy, whose dog is missing. Every time I read the story, I remembered Dad when he last spoke in the hospital and talked about his dog Skippy. I never grew tired of reading this story over the holidays. Good-Bye 2023 The month began with Dad... and my sister. A good portion of December was spent with Charlie and her wonderful parents.  The last day of the month and year, was spent with just Don. It was peaceful and lovely. We sat near the fire pit with champagne. I feel very lucky to have had his never-ending support, this month... and always.
Museum & Lunch When Don's sister visited in early November, we had lunch and visited the Houston Museum of Fine Arts.  We dined near the museum, at a cafe table that reminded me of Paris... which was exciting since Don and I (just days before) booked a spontaneous trip to Paris Art Near Home With Jane, we practiced being traveling tourists at the museum.    We walked some miles seeing numerous exhibits at the museum! Museums & Galleries The very next day we were off to Austin where we joined family and played tourist a little bit more.   Weather was lousy, but the Thinkery Museum for kiddos was a blast! More Art Jane and I enjoyed touring some studios and galleries.  "Austin's Studio Tour" festival, gave us a chance to meet artists in their own studios. Best Entertainment Besides galleries and museums, there was time for Charlie's last soccer match.  And there was time to hang out at the house. Coloring, puzzling and hamming it up a bit! ❤️ Paris By November 22nd, Don and I were suddenly in Paris! Our last visit was 24 years ago.  It was a last minute decision, since we had no holiday plans and flight costs were low! Fouquet's We had Thanksgiving dinner at Fouquet's, just like we did in 1999.  Years ago, Don and the kids studied the brass plates on the walkway, looking for the names of famous visitors. This time, I posed on the red carpet. Things looked a lot more decorated! Eating Through Paris We ate a lot. Food and drink always tastes better in lovely settings, like Fouquet's and Musee d'Orsay and Hotel Bristol. We ate inside quaint cafes and at a tiny outside table in Montmarte, watching the artists, paint and sell. Walking Through Paris Although we Uber-ed a couple times, we mostly walked. And walked and walked. That's how you burn off all the French food! Museum Time We only had 4 days in Paris, so we chose Musee d'Orsay over the Louvre. We loved seeing the classics, like Degas' Little Dancer. But we also love the grand building itself and the stunning views from windows! Strasbourg, France I'd barely heard of Strasbourg, until the day after we decided to go to Paris.  I woke up and peeked at Instagram and saw a mind-blowing reel, showing magical images of the old city's annual Christmas Markets. We booked 2 nights in the storybook town, on the border of Germany. Night Market There are numerous Christmas Markets in Old Strasbourg, all just steps from our hotel. At night we bundled and joined the crowds. Ate pretzels and German sausage and hot wine, as we wandered. Exploring In the early morning, it was easier to see the old village without crowds. I meandered and found us some wonderful restaurants... we returned and ate some memorable meals! Zurich A quick trip to Paris had been the plan. But when we realized we could fly out of Zurich, we added 2 nights. We had one full day with sunshine, in Zurich. Food & Drink Adventures While wandering, we did come across some fun dining options. Our lunch at the ritzy Baur au Lac Hotel, was heavenly. Walking back from lunch, we discovered the Conelli Circus, floating over the water. The circus was almost over, but we were welcomed into the bar and enjoyed coffee. A perfect dinner of Swiss Fondu in our hotel, on our last night! Old Zurich The best part of Zurich was the sweet old town area. We stayed in a centuries old, hotel. Hotel Adler was just steps away from quaint shops and churches and lovely old fountains. On the morning before departing, the snow began to fall and we made it to the airport before big traffic issues. Christmas in November! We flew home on the last day of November, feeling like the Christmas holidays were in full swing!
 All 3 cities surprised us with festive decor! We finished up the month happy... and cold! Ready for some Texas warmth!
Birthdays in Austin We don't need excuses to gather, but we let 2 October birthdays nudge us towards a little reunion. 
We celebrated Heidi and Don's birthdays, over the first weekend of the month. Been a While In recent years, we've managed to get our gang together... in many places. This was the first time we've all been together in Austin, since both of these young couples got married over 5 years ago. Cheers to that! Celebrating with Food We had a fun birthday dinner outing... Lots of good food and lots of lingering. Hanging at the House We spent a lot of the time hanging out at Heidi & Jamie's house. After months of sizzling hot weather, we had a pleasant-coolish weekend. Hanging at the Pumpkin Patch It was perfect weather for visiting a pumpkin patch.  At just over 2 1/2, Charlie was the perfect age. Actually we all were. Chicago A few days later, Don and I met up in Chicago, with Heidi.
Chicago weather was not ideal, but it was cozy in our little hotel.
Our schedule (and lots of rain) didn't allow us much time for exploring... but we had fun.
We managed to squeeze in a few good eats... plus a very important (pretend) phone call.
We were able to sample some Polish pierogi, in the neighborhood where Don's Polish grandparents once lived. Why Chicago? We made the trip to Chicago, for a happy reason. Heidi's friend since preschool, was getting married.
Nathalie's mom (Milissa) and I have been friends since the 1990's.
Two special evenings...
And lots of smiles. These 2 haven't changed much! Exploring Iowa Heidi flew back to Texas and Don and I spent 6 days exploring Iowa, in a rental car.
I loved my view from the passenger seat, spotting changing colors and curious barns. Fields of dry cornstalks.. an Amish buggy! 6 Nights Don and I have our own childhood memories of Iowa. I lived in Grinnell till age 10. Don grew up visiting relatives in Iowa. We spent 6 days traveling around the state, staying in interesting places.
We had popcorn in Perry and met a pup in Decorah.
We had breakfast in old Dubuque and I read books overlooking the Mississippi River. Pleasant Places We stayed in mostly small towns and a couple small-ish cities. The slideshow above shows the places we stayed and the wandering we did nearby. Cheers Every evening, we relaxed in a new place. We had a relaxed poolside toast in Iowa City. We had a riverside drink, overlooking the Mississippi.
We sipped wine looking down over Main Street in Dubuque and said "Cheers to our 44th Anniversary", in Hotel Pattee's library! Grinnell On October 20th, I dropped Don off at the Des Moines airport and headed for Grinnell.  I was excited-nervous about reuniting with my old buddies Joanna and Debbie for a couple days, in the town where I lived my first 10 years. 1967 and 2023 I remember the day Debbie's dad took the photo on the left. My family was getting ready to move to Florida.  Deb and Jo no longer live in Grinnell, but Jo's stepmom does. She took our photo when we stopped in for a glass of wine. Wandering It was wonderful to wander the old college campus and parks and neighborhoods, where we used to ride our bikes.  We stayed in Hotel Grinnell, which used to be Grinnell's Junior High.
Debbie and Joanna have memories of walking the halls as students, in the 100 year old building. I don't think they ever enjoyed a Margarita in this building until 2023.
We regressed to the kids we were in 1967, with candy cigarettes and Bugles... comic books and troll dolls.. We wore the "Not Now" ties (used for door signs) and took our candy cigarettes and water glasses into the halls to misbehave.
A very nice staff member humored us and snapped some photos. Catching Up It was fun to compare childhood memories.  But it was also special to get caught up as adults. There was a lot of catching up to do. Wandering in Grinnell I wish I had more photos of Grinnell from when I was a child. I made sure to take many, when we explored. Summer Street I borrowed one of the hotel bikes before I left town and rode down my old street. I knocked lightly on the door of what had once been "the yellow house". No answer, but I was just happy to stand on my favorite porch!
My Grinnell visit was a good trip down memory lane. I'm so glad I was able to reconnect with old friends and to reconnect with my 10-year-old self a little bit! I may have changed in 56 years, but I still love a good sweatshirt! Halloween We spent the end of the month enjoying home! We ate some healthy food on Halloween... lots of candy and chili, too!  I Facetimed with poor little Charlie who was sick on Halloween. She helped me decide which pumpkin to carve. You can tell which one she picked.  Sadly, not a single trick-or-treater rang our bell. So we'll be eating a lot more candy in November!
Dad's 95th Birthday In the beginning of September we gathered in Springfield, to celebrate Dad's 95th!  Dad is pictured above, with his 4 kids and spouses, 3 of his grandkids, his great-granddaughter and her daddy. Over Labor Day weekend, the 12 of us traveled from 6 states to celebrate with Dad in Missouri. The Meyer Clan On the second of September we gathered with more family at my cousin's. Dad was born in Springfield exactly 95 years before.  Most of the Meyer gang still live in Springfield, where Dad grew up. Since I've never lived in town with relatives, it boggles my mind (in a wonderful way) to see all these connected people, in one place! Hats and Cake All felt amazingly relaxed, as we gathered on a lovely day. Food, Family... party hats for some!
There were little ones for Dad to watch. Cake to sing around. And a quick "speech" by Chris, that made Dad laugh! Birthday Party Slideshow This slideshow gives a glimpse of the fun. It was a pleasant lunchtime gathering. We made sure to get a photo of Dad and his kids, before the party broke up.  Springfield is Dad's hometown, not ours. However, my siblings and I have fond memories of yearly visits to see relatives in the town. Cherry and Pickwick in Springfield We 4 kids grew up in many in different towns. I feel like I remember more street names from Springfield, than anywhere I've lived. Our young mom once lived on Pickwick. Our young dad worked at a grocery store on Cherry.  Today, the neighborhood near this sign, is a fun and hopping area. We made this neighborhood our home for a few days, while we visited. Cherry Street Grocery When I was little, I thought it was so cool that my dad had worked at a grocery store as a teen. The old Cherry Street Grocery, is now a gift shop.
Above the shop, there are now 2 Airbnb rentals called Pickwick Places. A few of us stayed there. Right above Dad's old store! Cherry Street House The rest of us stayed a few doors down at this adorable rental, sitting right on Cherry Street.  We have no history with this house. But having a porch brought back memories of the porch games from childhood. Kitty in the Corner!
It felt like home, having a porch and sofas and a dinner table, to gather around,  The evening before Dad's birthday, we gathered with party hats...  ... and we toasted to the Birthday Boy. Having a backyard also made it feel like we had gone back in time.
My brother Chris, grilled up the same bbq chicken recipe that my Grandpa Meyer used years ago. Cherry Street Slideshow Here are more photos of hanging out at the Cherry Street House. No explanations needed. Springfield Highlights We had a few days, to hit some favorite places.
Steak n Shake is always a must. Great Grandpa's Place We had no idea how 2 1/2 year old Charlie would be with her Great Grandpa.
First of all she managed to call him Great Grandpa, which is a mouthful. And she was more than happy to go along with Great Grandpa's playful games and teasing.
Heidi and Scott got in their own poses before saying good-bye. Exploring with Scott Before taking Scott to the airport, we fit in a neighborhood run together. Scott ran slow for me and we made some little stops... at a small park.
Then, Scott posed with the rock pillar in front of his great grandmother's old house. I remember when I was finally big enough to climb it. More Relatives At Scott's request we stopped to see the graves of my mom and her relatives.
It was a sweet visit, until a thunderstorm forced us to dash back to the car. From Springfield to Eureka Springs, AR Don and I departed Springfield, the day after Labor Day. We drove home to Texas, making a stop for the night in Arkansas.
It's always nice to see the curious Ozark town, when it's quiet, after a busy holiday weekend. Nola in Arkansas We stayed at the old New Orleans Hotel.
Eureka Springs always reminds me of New Orleans, with its wrought iron balconies.
We didn't have a room on the balcony-lined front. Instead we had a room on the back with a sunporch, looking out at the spiral, iron fire escape! Cheers! Like Nola, Eureka Springs often has a bit of a noisy, party vibe going on. Mostly with motorcycles coming through.  We enjoyed a drink in the hotel's Voodoo Lounge. It was quiet, (unlike Nola) and that suited us just fine. We toasted to a good birthday celebration. One More Visit Don and I made one more quick trip in late September.
It's nice to be only 2.5 hours from Austin. We had a good visit with this little girl and her parents.
Char loves round things, like soccer balls and pumpkins.
And she loves dressing up! It's not even October! Friends September was also a month for seeing some special (unrelated) people. My childhood friend Diane, came to Houston for work and we met up at her hotel.
I brought along some old dolls to amuse us. It's been 58 years since we were next door neighbors. I was 8 then and that's about how I acted, when I spilled my red wine all over my lap! Honestly, I had only 2 sips before that mess! Friends Nearby We also saw some friends who don't live so far away.  Pat and Susan made me laugh, but I spilled no wine. Texas "Reunion" At the end of the month, my college friend Martha and her hubby Bill visited from Colorado.  We got in the Texas spirit with some western bandanas for our photo. (goofy glasses, candy necklaces and leis in the past) My stomach muscles were sore after our 24 hour visit! September Skies As the month came close to the end, I caught some beautiful skies.  At the lake, we saw eerie clouds before an evening storm. The sky was glowing in the morning.  From our backyard at home, I caught the full moon in the morning and the sunset in the evening. A good way to end a full month!
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