The Mother\Daughter Thing

Tomorrow, K3 and I are heading to Canada for a little girl time... shopping, strolling along the waterfront, fine dining, etc. I wanted her to have a little somethin, somethin since she didn't get to go to Ireland. I'm really looking forward to spending some time with her and getting away by ourselves. She's spontaneous, curious and fun to laugh with and I know we're going to have great time! Plus, she's been to Canada before so she's very comfortable with our destination. That helps a lot!

On the flip side, as we approach the 10th anniversary of 9/11, the 10th anniversary of my mom's death has arrived as well. I don't know how I feel about that. I feel mostly at peace when I think of her, I feel sorry that she wasn't a happier person... I wonder if she would have mellowed had she lived longer. I still don't like to talk about her though. There's such an idealism about the mother/daughter relationship and sometimes it just doesn't work. And when one dies and the other remains, sometimes just finding peace is all that is left. And hope... there's always room for hope.

I hope that had my mom lived she might have felt the joy I feel at the thought of a girl's weekend away with her daughter. I hope she would have come to realize how important that connection is.

I know that for all my daughters, it is something I absolutely cherish.

Have a wonderful long weekend everyone.

Lovingly, AG

Calling Card

Mt Rainier leaves its calling card all over the Puget Sound region. This particular view is one of my favorites...

You see it as you leave the valley where I work and drive up onto "the plateau" where there are a number of little towns... This is the view coming up the crest from the valley.

I always think the mountain is announcing itself...

"Here I am. I am awesome."

And I'm pretty sure I heard, "AG, Where is your camera?"

It's on the seat next to me. I'm ready for you, Bub!

Do you keep a camera handy when you're out driving around?

Have a great weekend!

AG out!

Saying Goodbye

TOG's stepdad passed away very suddenly last night.

He was a part of our lives for many years and his very best quality in my eyes.... He was wonderful to TOG's mother. Widow and Widower, both of them found in their second marriage the things they had missed out on in their first.

Rest in peace, Grandpa. You did good.

Hug those you love close to you,

Blessings to all,

AG

Between Storms

After a couple days of wind and rain and the occasional falling tree, we had a respite yesterday morning during which Mt. Rainier popped out wearing it's "hat".

This was short lived however as we are back in the windy and rainy mode.

Still, it was a nice break.

How's your weather?

AG out!

PS ~ I'm highlighting some of my "how to" posts from Thanksgiving last year. Today's post is how to brine a turkey!