I woke up around 8:30 this morning to the sound of my mom coming in from her workout at Curves. Bren had slept on the couch and was already awake and chirped, "Good morning Grandma!". I climbed out of bed and into the kitchen with my wild hair, and one eye closed to block out the light. It felt good to hug my dad. He smells good and always hugs me like he means it.
Later in the morning Aunt Janet and Uncle Joe came over and we all went over to the property where mom and dad's house is being built. Janet and Joe plan to build a house right across the road when they retire. An Amish crew of six is building it and they were fascinating to watch. They worked quickly, efficiently and with a sense of purpose. I never thought we'd be too far away to see the house once it's complete, but hopefully we'll be able to make a trip home within the next couple years.
We returned home and mom put her famous lasagna sauce on to simmer while Uncle Joe, dad, and Rick sat out on the balcony to chat.
On our way into town Bren saw a little shop that sells unique jewelry, so mom, Aunt Janet, Bren and I piled into the car to go check it out. The small building was painted purple, the store name, handpainted in cursive, read Uniquely Jennifer. Windchimes made out of everyday items adorned the roof overhang and swayed in the breeze. As soon as we walked in we were overcome by cigarette smoke. Mom and Aunt Janet only looked for a minute then had to retreat to the parking lot for fresh air.
Bren was in her element, scanning the handmade jewelry. She prefers to find and wear things that not many other people would have. She ended up buying a ring made of silver wire twisted into an abstract shape. Everyone approved. The lady tending shop was very cheerful and so helpful. I love country folk!An intense three hour-marathon of Yahtzee ensued after a delicious meal of lasagna, salad, and garlic bread - our last homecooked meal for a long time. While the guys and Bren played the game, I headed out to the truck to Rain-X the windows and put on our wind deflectors. Aunt Janet came out to keep me company which allowed us time to have a good chat.
I'm not sure who won the Yahtzee tournament, but a good time was had by everyone. I stopped often to enjoy the sound of laughter coming from the people I love the most in this world, and thanked God again for His grace and goodness toward us. Mom, Dad, Aunt Janet, and Joe, I love you tremendously!
We plan to head out by 8 a.m. tomorrow to begin our long trek north. Please pray for us when you think of us!
Blessings to you.
2 comments:
It's great to read about your good times with family along the way. So glad you were able to do that. Praying for safe travels.
Seeing your family and connecting again is a great benefit already from your travels. Sounds like you're having a rite fine time on vacation!! :)
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