Winthrop, WA

Two weekends back, Nick and I took a solo trip to Winthrop, WA. Located in central Washingon, it is a quaint little town with numerous things to do...from shopping to laying by the river to various outdoor recreating. Sounds a lot like Bend, but not nearly as big. It has it's own Country Western feel, as most of the buildings on the main drag (only drag for that matter) are faced with the Wild West facade. The home made ice cream shop was by far the most hoppin' place, but it certainly didn't lack the antique-ish gift shops that are always so fun to browse, as well as outdoor clothing stores and restaurants.Since it had been years and years since either Nick or I had ventured to Winthrop, it was clear that it was time to re-explore the land together. After randomly selecting a campground near town via internet and getting a wee bit lost trying to find it...we rolled into our campground at 10pm, Friday night. Ahhh...another set up in the dark...is there any other way? The camp host had no record of our reservation, but after telling him that my credit card statement said otherwise, he willingly gave us a site and we were on our way.

The next morning we realized Big Twin Lakes campground is beautiful and well shaded (a MUST considering 95 degree weather - too hot for a good ol' Western Washington girl like me), but the lake was rather disappointing. It did not pass the inspection as being a swimable lake, unless one enjoys swimmers itch, but rather a good fishing spot, which neither Nick nor I do.
After a leisurely breakfast and a game of cribbage, we headed up Sun Mountain for some awesome mountain biking. It took me about 2 peddle strokes to realize that the term "Mountain Biking" can have many different meanings. Most of Eastern Washington mountain biking is rolly, hot, exposed, sandy, rocky, fast, narrow, non-technical and in my opinion very boring and life-sucking. Not to mention boiling hot! I was reminded yet again how lucky we are to have Galbraith mountain 10 minutes from our front door. That is my kind of mountain biking: Steep and steady going up, fast going down, technical, networks of trails, compacted dirt, shade and fun, fun, fun. So after an hour and a half of peddling and seeing if the trails would get any better, we threw the bikes back on the car, headed back to camp and took a 2 hour nap under the Willow tree.

Shockingly, when we woke up we were still exhausted and realized it was more about being over heated than it was about being tired. A 10 minute drive took us to a beautiful, refreshing lake where the water cooled our bones and rejuvenated our spirits. Charlotte even took a little swim (slightly forced by Nick) and though she probably hated it in the moment, we could tell she too felt much better after taking a dip. We did a little dog sitting once we returned to our campsite. Ore site neighbors, and as it turns out fellow Bellinghamers, were celebrating a 60th birthday in town and asked us to watch their 3 lb dog, Lucy. She took a liking to Nick quickly, although, I'm not sure if she ever stopped shaking.

Sunday morning, the skies were a bit overcast and I thanked the Lord every moment. After peanut butter pancakes and sausages, we packed up camp and headed to another mountain bike trail that was promised to be more of our kind of biking.

Cutthroat Lake, located in the Oakenagen National Park, is a must see for everyone! The lake itself is a mere 2.4 mile trek up a very gradual incline. The scenery during the hike is treat enough, but the lake is awe-inspiring. Warning: Layer on bug spray like you would smoother frosting on a cake. The mosquitoes are thick as blankets and have a tenacity that would humble a tiger feeding on it's pray. They only surround the lake, so when on the trails you are home free!

Since we were biking, we took 2 seconds to snap a photo by the lake (Nick was lucky to have me stop moving that long - they were ferocious little blood suckers) and we continued up the trails. From there on the incline got much steeper. With constant switchbacks and the occasional stream to plow through, we climbed and climbed and climbed with beauty surrounding us. Eventually we hit a stopping point (mostly due to our time limit...we still had a 3 hour drive home), padded up and headed down. Granted it wasn't the technical downhill that we are used to, but boy was it fast. Nick lead the train, then Charlotte who can run with the best of them, then me bringing up the rear. We were back at our car before we knew it, amazed at what a difference the day before's ride had been compared to what we just did.

Refreshed and exhausted we headed home, soaking up the awesome views the whole way. If you haven't made it over to Winthrop yet. You really must. The drive itself is worth it!

See Charlotte likes the technical bridges too!

Bend, Oregon

Quite a few months ago, Nick and I sat down and created a list of destinations we would love to visit this summer. Since the bulk of my work consumes the weekends throughout the summer, we are forced to be intentional about our limited free time. We all know that the Summer is the time to take advantage of the beautiful Northwest...so it was a no brainer to break the patterns of the last few summers of just "wingin' it" when it comes to weekend trip and really brain storm our most desired mini-vacation destinations. The list included: Bend, OR...Hood River, OR...Victoria, BC...Whistler, BC...Squamish, BC...Winthrop, WA...San Juan Islands, WA...and at least one backpack trip on Mt. Baker. Obviously, we were already able to cross off Whistler and Squamish off our list, and during the 4th of July weekend...we accomplished yet another desired location: Bend. OR.

Though the city name itself - Bend - sounds somewhat unintriguing, it is actually an absolute "must see" city in my humble opinion. Located in central Oregon...it reminds me just of a bigger Bellingham. A place of unlimited activities...both for the adventurous heart and laid-back shopper, while surrounded by beautiful terrain and a laid back ora.

We were blessed to have a three day weekend over the 4th, so it made sense to visit Bend due to it's longer distance from home (8 hour drive). Leaving late on Thursday night, we rolled into Ridgefield (home of Matt, Ami and Delya Lewis) around 1am. After catching some ZZZZZs, we all awoke, packed the car with 4 adults and 1 infant's belongings and bodies and hit the road.
Though the car ride was a bit tight, I soaked up every minute. Lucky me, I got the choice back seat right next to two of my favorite women in the world: My niece and sister. I got to stare at Delya for 4 hours...watching her watch her mother with adoration, joy and total contentedness. The have obviously grown a deep bond during the last 4.5 months and it was written all over Delya's face. Something that I will never forget and continue to be so proud of my sister for being such an awesome mom.
After we rolled into Bend in the early afternoon, we checked in at our hotel and took the short half mile walk into downtown. The dry 90 degree weather took a bit getting used to, but so very worth it. With a few streets of full of boutiques, sweet shops and outdoor gear, we were easily entertained for hours upon hours of window shopping and eating. Lucky for us, we also took part in the "Art Walk" which happens on the first Friday of each night in downtown Bend. Local participating shops and galleries stay open later and offer free wine, beer and treats. A genius marketing idea, as each location was jammed full of potential shoppers, who may not opt to be there without the free booze. After a late dinner at one of the McMenamin's school turned restaurant/hotel locations (www.mcmenamins.com - so cool...check it out!) we headed back to the hotel for some rest.

Delya rockin' her new booties:
The 4th celebration was a sight to see in Bend. By 10am sharp, thousands of on-lookers lined the downtown streets to watch the parade; simply consisting of humans and their pets, adding up to even more thousands. It was packed...lively...and the all American spirit was buzzing through the streets.

Nick posing with his pet of choice (besides Charlotte of course): "A Pony!!!":
The five of us continued on our walk to the Old Mill district:... A place of more shops, but this time more commonly seen names: REI, Banana Republic, American Eagle, Victoria Secret, Red Robin, etc, etc, etc. It was while walking through the Old Mill area that I told Nick - "Honey...we are actually doing it! We said we wanted to come here...and here we are!" I was proud of us...it's easy to plan trips, but doing them takes effort...the packing, the driving, the dog arrangments, and on and on and on.

It was fun to brouse and get some walking exercise, but it was obvious that the quaintness and uniqueness of the shops in the down town part of town won our hearts. It was also obvious that the mid 90 degree weather was draining us, and the Deshutes river was calling our name.
Running right through town, the Deshutes has a mild flow and a very "float me" call. After a unanimous vote of floating the river, we headed back to the hotel, to get the car so we could find the nearest box store that would sell us a floaty. After our $2.50 floaties were purchased, we launched, somewhat unwillingly, into the river for our 1 mile drifting experience. I say somewhat unwillingly, because while on our floaty shopping spree, the clouds decided to come in and temporarily eliminate the burning sun that created the craving to want to jump in a freezing cold river. But we made the best of it, even Delya (what a fish!!!) and laughed, while chattering our teeth at the irony of it all.
Snacks, showers and feedings (for Delya) were in the books for us at the hotel, and then we were headed back into town to hunt down a great dinner to celebrate our country's independence. (Can you tell we walked 10 miles a day, just going from one place to the next???? It was awesome!) Deshutes Brewery was the obvious choice due to the vast menu options, the great beer (for the boys) and the perfect location to step out of the restaurant to view the "Best in Oregon" fireworks show in a small pocket park around the corner. It was really a great way to wrap up such a fun day.
Sunday was our departure day, so after hitting up a Pearl Izumi Outlet (biking gear) and a pit stop at some rockin' reservoir for a picnic lunch and a quick swim...we were on the road yet again. Though the ride back was uneventful (thankfully...no traffic) it may have been one of my favorite times from the entire weekend. I have said time and time again that Ami and I are very close. But this trip truly allowed the "sister time" that we really haven't had in years. Being completely sedentary in the car for 6-7 hours...allowed us the time to chat, chat, chat with minimal interruptions or distractions. It really is all about the journey, isn't it?

Since we rolled into Steilacoom so late (mom and dad watched Charlotte for the weekend), we deemed it wise to sleep there, then head back to B-Ham in the morning. It was an awesome way to spend the long weekend...after all "We're actually doing it!"

Father's Day

This year Father's Day was unlike any other for The Mag 7, as we celebrated 2 fathers (well 3 if you include Nick fathering Charlotte): Matt and my dad of course. It was a weekend gathering in Steilacoom, with the loose agenda of Kayaking, BBQ and Church to be followed by the traditional trip to Costco for mocha freezes, pizza and soda. We did as we always do...living life at an easy pace in Steilacoom.

Since my mother had a bit of a migraine, neither she nor Brea attended the kayaking festivities. So that left: Dad, Delya and Matt in the canoe, Ami, Nick (& Charlotte) and I in individual kayaks on American Lake in Lakewood. We paddled for about 2 hours, with deep cravings to jump in the water, but too intimidated by the daunting "I just may rain on you any second" clouds. Midway through the adventure, Delya needed a snack so Ami and Matt swapped vessels for appropriate feeding. It was hilarious and wonderful.

I do love how different land looks from the water (verses seeing land on land). And it pains me to say that I have not been saving up enough money for our water front dream home...hmmmm only 2 million to go...Yikes!

It was such an enjoyable weekend. Not only to honor the dads in our family, but also because I got some serious time with my niece. It had been about 5 weeks since I seen her last, and boy oh boy had she changed. Physically, she has turned into a baby after my own heart: Chubby-chub-chub with eatable cheeks and rolls upon rolls (this is healthy you know...baby's need fat for brain development and extra nourishment in case they don't get enough calories in a day - that is nature taking over). Developmentally, she is leaps and bounds beyond our last encounter: She is so very alert, wide-eyed and expressive. She is strong...holding her own weight while standing (assitance with balance is needed of course). She smiles the sweetest smile and is much more go-with-the flow: From Auntie Andi, to Uncle Nick, to Pappi, to Omi then to bed...she transitions beautifully and rarely fusses.
It continues to amaze me to watch my sister in this new role of motherhood. She is excelling. She is a patient and loving mother. She is adaptable, adventurous and embracing the challenge. She is not over-panicky, over-bearing or over-protective. She is an amazing mom...as is Matt an amazing Dad...fully present, completely helpful in all infant duties and expressive for his love for his little girl. Not to mention the hilarious names he comes up for Delya: Little Sumo, Milk Coma Baby and 100 others that I just can't think of right now. It is great to watch them be parents together...especially when I get to hold my niece and nibble on her cheeks!

Whistler Relived

A few weekends ago a group of us headed up to Whistler BC for a weekend of adventure and relaxation. Thanks to a great friend's hook up, we were able to score a sweet deal on a great condo in the Upper Village. A mere 15 minute walk took us to the heart of the Village...a place for shopping, delicious dining and oh-so entertaining people watching. I LOVE hanging in the village. The vibe it gives off is one of great appeal to me. Such a blend of people...young to old, rich to rags, it has got it all. The die-hard bikers who live for the hills to those who may not even notice the recreation options...but more specifically there to shop, dine or raise a ruckus during a bachelorette party. The entertainment is unlimited, therefore, I love it.

After 2 years of recovery and positive self talk from my last horrific Whistler down hill park bike riding experience (http://nickandandi.blogspot.com/2007/08/whistler-bikers-dreamunless-youre-me.html), I decided it was time for a do over. We went about it the right way this time: I rented the fattiest bike I could get my hands on...9 inches of travel with motorcycle tires (basically) to boot. I padded up with the right gear, caffeine up to give me a boost and we were well on our way up the mountain (via chairlift of course...those bikes weren't designed to be peddled up hill...or flat for that matter). I am so very proud to report, not a single tear was shed this year. Only hoots and hollers of exaltation! I even stepped up a few skills while I was there: Overcoming my fear of drops (or basically allowing my tires to be off the ground longer that .01 seconds) and taking full advantage of the berms. Nick of course was a great encourager (yes...he definitely learned his lesson from the last go-around). He stuck by my side the whole day...taking breaks when I needed them (read: to get food and more food), gave me on-the-spot lessons and techniques that would help my advancement and praised me for the littlest of accomplishment (which I have learned helps me more than anything else). It was an amazing day...we returned to the condo that evening with smiles on our faces and excitement to hear the stories of our fellow traveling companions. Not to mention the hilarious observation of 3 grown men trying to expedite the process of charcoal burning.

Sunday brought a yummy "family style" breakfast, a people watching/coffee drinking period at the park and a sun tanning session at Lost Lake with the crew. We lounged, relaxed and laughed...things all Sundays should include.
I can't wait for another go around in 2010! Or even a few more in 2009!

Whoa - weekend catch up

The last few weeks have been an absolute blurry blast. From here to there on the weekends to slamming weekday, work-filled hours...I haven't found the time to blog about life. But a las, a quick update just cause I can!

In May, Nick and I visited our amazing friends Pete and Joy. Their twins turned 1 that weekend, so we got to hang with them a learn all about Diaper-Genie, frozen pureed food and landscaping the yard.

Isabelle loves to push David in the buggy.

Charlotte likes to see what's going on too:


I'm getting served up my all time favorite treat: Ice cream!

Mother's day weekend was spent up at my parent's cabin. And though I have no photos to show off that blessed weekend...we definitely had a blast! Hanging around the cabin, venturing to the fabulous town of Enumclaw for a hair cut and Starbucks, and a rather long, wet bike ride with Nick in Black Diamond. I am happy to have that destination scratched off our list...was a maze!

The following weekend, mom and dad payed Nick and I a visit. It was a long time coming and we were so happy to have them up. There was defiantly more play than work being done...but of course dad's amazing skills were put to good use...fixing our sink, shower head, and endless consultation on deck repair and refinishing. He says not to do anything until August when it's really hot. Perhaps we will just have to schedule another gathering with them then to help us out!

We took them up the Ridge line for a hike on Galbrieth
Dad built a little muscle too...that push mower is no easy task:

Memorial Weekend took us to Squamish...or as Taylor puts it: Bellingham times 100. Gorgeous terrain, awesome mt. biking, beautiful lakes for swimming, plentiful trails for hiking...really the list goes on and on. And if you can believe it, we forgot our camera! Ahhhh!!! But had a great time with friends Mindy and Taylor, as well as Nick's co-worker Corley, his girlfriend Laura and friend Oscar from Portland.

Last weekend was the first weekend in weeks we had to ourselves. Besides the 300 cupcake delivery to Semiahmoo for a wedding on Saturday, we managed to pack a lot of recreating and fun into our two days off. Bike riding, Costco shopping, yard work, dog parking with friends, church, ice cream eating, house cleaning, you name it, we did it. I love those weekends. The ones that feel really long, but in a good way. A balance of productivity and complete relaxation.

This weekend brings even more fun events. It all starts with a clothes swap (best way to clean out your closet, go "shopping" for free, help those less fortunate and hang out with a bunch of super cool girls all at the same time!), a baby shower, rockin' out with a band, a bike ride and everything else that falls between. We really, truly are blessed...life is what you make it!

The art of letting go - Vacuums included

I don't have good luck with vacuums. I would like to say that it isn't my fault...but that would be ridiculous. Of course it's my fault, after all, I am only $200 away from a really good one right?

It all started a few Christmas' ago. We were wrapping-up the unwrapping and my dad was getting rather giddy. I inquired further the means for his behavior and he soon there after reveled to me a completely refurbished 1970 vacuum for my very own! Since I had just moved into my condo in Kirkland, the timing was quite apropos. I chose to ignore the fact that the thing weighed 80 lbs, had no extension hose for those "hard to reach places" and required new dirt-bags every 3rd use. I graciously accepted it and vacuumed with enthusiasm and appreciation for the time and effort Dad put forth to give me a special gift.

Fast forward 5 years and envision a very frustrated Andi who tries to keep a tidy home, but finds such task impossible when said refurbished vacuum continues to sneeze out it's internal guts every time I turn the dang thing on. On a particularly sunny day, I happened to observe just how much dust it spat out while I was trying to pick up the week's worth filth on my carpet. That was it! The end of my emotional-attachment to this dang machine that doesn't do what it was made to do. So, I ripped the chord out of the wall, mid-vacuum, and promptly sat myself in front of my email to kindly thank my father for this gift he poured much time into all those years ago, but it was time for both of us to let-go. I was officially in the market for a new, perhaps a bag-free/Hepa filter vacuum. You know...really indulge in the fine luxuries in life. I even contemplated the Roomba...you know...no hands/no time/no effort needed. Just turn it on and walk away. Nick laughed at me and asked "Why would you want that?" I am sure the look on my face was enough of an answer, but just in case he didn't get it...I answered his question with a question: "When was the last time YOU vacuumed or swept the floor?"* But either way, my destiny was not for a new vacuum. No instead, my frugal father responded to my email saying he had yet another vacuum for me...not refurbished, but perhaps an upgrade. And since I am my father's daughter, I accepted graciously...happy to be saving the extra bucks, thinking I just scored an awesome deal.

Yesterday, I realized the truth...this vacuum sucks too! And not the good way! It seems to have the "smearing" effect. Just kinda pushing the dirt around until it feels like sucking it up. So I spend MORE time than before trying to get the dirt off the ground. At least this one actually keeps the dirt in. It is also is a bit easier to push...with the other, I ended up de-layering due to overheating as I progressed from room to room. Thankfully, my upgrade does have an extension hose...so all those hard to reach places can satisfyingly get clean. Aesthetically, it is rather sad. A very dull blue color and chunky to boot; lowest of the low 1980 model. I try not to complain...it was free after all...and everyone knows I love a great deal!

And a perk for my parents: An enthusiastic daughter, willing to vacuum their home with every visit. They have an internal vacuum system...no bags, no weight, no problem! Wonder how much that costs to install??? Naw...I will just add that to the "wish list" for the next house.

*Nick is actually a very good house cleaner...when he remembers to do it AND makes the time. I just happen to have a higher need of cleanliness around our humble abode.

A time for change

Before I even begin this blog, I beg of you not to judge me. I didn't know I would be struggling with this issue...I wasn't prepared for it. I am, in fact, still processing my thoughts, reactions and realities. But since I am a "verbal processor" I thought typing this out may help...along with sharing a story with you.

My beautiful, moppy, shaggy, oh-so-adorable, car stopping dog is gone. Not gone, gone....Charlotte is still very much alive and with us in the Vann household...but her beautiful exterior has vanished. See my dilemma...such a worldly, shallow concern, but a concern non the less. Wait for it...there's more.

For a while now, Nick and I had concluded that Charlotte would in deed need a hair cut soon. Many reasons brought us to this conclusion: Even during our meek 60 degree days...we would find Charlotte panting like a mad dog, seeking out shade where ever she could find it. We were needing to brush her everyday to manage the clumps and clumps of knots that were forming in her hair. We were constantly stopping her while at the park or on Galbraith Mt to extract the multitude of sticks, pine needles, ivy and other miscellaneous items she collected from mother earth in her leg and belly hair. We even had a scare late one evening due to her projectile vomiting...later to conclude internal cloggage of pine needles in her tummy had messed with her digestive track (while I, of course, thought she was dying). Again...because of her self grooming techniques of extracting park debris from her legs and eating it. So obviously it was time for a cut.

Last week, I did my researched...called a few places in town to learn about their process and pricing. Just so you know, cutting Charlotte's hair costs more than Nick and my haircuts combined. Awesome. But, due to the reasons above, we knew it would be worth it. Overall...less day to day maintenance.

One option we liked:

Another option we liked:

After we scheduled an appointment, I spent some time on the net, searching for Wheaten Terrier hair cuts. I had a specific look in mind and didn't give up the search until I found a few that I liked. I should have know at this point, that it was time to let go of the "mop look" and embrace the change that was due to occur. The thing is though...I didn't want to. I loved my little shaggy bear. I loved that she had this moppy body. I loved that she could only see clearly when we was running at mock speed and the wind blew the hair out of her eyes. I loved that people would roll down their windows and ask "what kind of dog is that?" or stop mid conversation on a sidewalk corner to bend over and pet Charlotte. She was unique. She was different. She was stinking cute!!!! But never the less, Nick and I printed out the photos, discussed, in GREAT detail, what our expectations were, so that when Nick dropped Charlotte off at the groomers, he could clearly communicate what we were wanting.

The big day had finally come, so Nick dropped her off in the middle of the afternoon. Time progressed and Nick hadn't yet received a call from the groomers, that Charlotte was ready. So he stopped by to pick her up at the end of the work day, thinking that they were near done. They requested that Nick return in 2 hours...saying that Charlotte's hair was more matted than she had thought and needed to hand cut the hair with scissors. I was getting a little nervous...because I didn't know what to expect at this point. I kept on thinking...WOW, I'm going to be able to see Charlotte's eyes. Wow...she is going to be completely BLOND when we get her. She's going to have a beard!!! (per our request).

Sure enough, 2 hours later, Nick got the call and picked up Charlotte. We had a few guests over at the time, so obviously I stayed home to be with them.

Upon Nick's return, I suddenly realized that I was worriedly anxious to see Charlotte. Through our back door, I could see Nick's face, but not yet our newly groomed dog. The look he gave me was "prepare yourself." With guests' attention towards that back door, Charlotte was reveled to the crowd and let me tell you...it was a SHOW STOPPER. My hands shot straight to my mouth, my eyes bulged as big as bowling balls and I just stopped breathing. Charlotte of course ran in and greeted everyone, like her usual self, licking and jumping and scaring little children...luckily, not knowing the drastic effect she was having on me. I looked at Nick and immediately scolded him for teasing me like this..."This isn't our dog...where is Charlotte?" His response: "Andi...yes she is...that is Charlotte." Hand still on mouth, I sucked in an even deeper breath and was caught between needing to face reality and running away. With tears welling in my eyes...I called Charlotte to me to get a closer look. Sitting in the middle of the kitchen, she happily waddled her self over to me and gave me a lick. Yep...this was in fact my dog. Mop dog no, more, she is now...well....different.

I felt bad for my gracious guests. They could tell I was still in shock and all responded in different ways. Kristen, sat with me on the floor as I battled through mental dialog ranging from...it's just hair to Oh my gosh...what did they do to my dog???!!! Trevor reassured me that Charlotte's heart was still the same. Right...check...got it. Beauty is only skin deep. Anne Marie just looked at me with wide eyes...knowing that eventually I would get over this and come to terms that my Charlotte is still my Charlotte. As for Nick...he was dancing on a fine line. Trying to be both supportive and realistic...that is a tough dance to dance at a time like this. So I worked through it verbally. Telling myself that I should have prepared myself better for the drastic change she would take. That it really isn't THAT bad...just different. That I would adjust. That I couldn't' allow myself to be feeling saddened and overwhelmed and shocked and outraged anymore because Charlotte is totally a vibe dog and would be able to tell that I was having issues with her. And because life isn't skin deep...

So now...15 hours later, I am still working through this. She is different. Still being Charlotte in having the same: mannerisms, cuddly ways, big stretches, kisses and enthusiasm for life. But it will take some adjusting. Nick laughs at me and inquires about my need for counseling. My laugh back because I know it is silly for me to still be feeling this way. But in a way, I feel like I have lost a part of the old Charlotte and have now gained a new dog. I am looking forward to time. Time seems to help with stuff like this. You get used to things. Then it becomes normal. So that will help. I am also looking forward to the perfumy smell to rid her body. It's just not very Charlottesk. I am excited to go on an adventure with her and let her run and get a little dirty like she should be. And mostly, I am excited for her hair to grow out a bit...to merge back (just a scooch) into a bit more of a shaggy dog and not the blunt, sharp characteristics that define her external appearance now. Don't get me wrong. I still love her as much as I did yesterday morning, before this whole debacle began. I still smash my face into her face and give her the love I desire to give. So, as I tell Nick...try not to judge me...just love me and let me work through this...as silly as it may be.

My Oma

Oma's legacy:

A few weeks ago, I received a much dreaded phone call from my sister, informing me that my precious Oma ("grandmother" in German) had left this world. Though heartbroken, the realization quickly set upon me that it was time for her to go. To be set free from the physical burdens her 86 year old body had brought her and the mental strain that had been present for quite some time. Oma left quite a legacy: Her 5 daughters; the Kaczmarek sisters...who in turn married men, who then gave them children, who then have married (some not all yet), who are now having children (some not all yet). As simple as the story of life goes, I was taken aback at what Oma had given me: The sense of what family is...the power of love that just 2 people can create...the deeply rooted meaning of kinship. I realized, while speaking at her memorial service, of all times, that Oma is the reason why I LOVE my family with the deep passion and persistence that I do. She started it...she built a family based around Love and Togetherness and now it is deeply integrated into our familial system that will not be taken away...ever. Besides the many valuable lessons that Oma taught me throughout the years, this one will hold precedence over all. So I thank her and praise Jesus for giving me such a woman to admire.

Our family is still working through the loss of Oma. And though her earthly body may be gone, I rest assured that she is living a vigorously joyful eternity in heaven....embracing the peace, the absence of pain and PURE happiness or Our Creator promises heaven will bring.

What Oma loved most: Being in her chair, a crossword puzzle in hand, candy near by, with the TV blaring in the back ground:

She's always been a little whipper-snapper. This photo of Oma was taken about 80ish years ago.

Charlotte - Andi - Mower train

Today's weather has been a mixed bag. Woke up to rain. Then it eased up and was darkly overcast. Then dumped like it has never dumped before. Now it is sunny and seasonably warm. Crazy, but I warmly welcome the variety if it ends up being sunny.

Due to the recent break of bad weather, I decided to ditch the car-dependency for an afternoon and run and errand via foot. Charlotte joined me, as she is very much an outdoorsy dog. My errand you ask: Pick up our push lawn mower from being serviced. We've had that sucker for a year, and just recently decided to take it in to be aligned and sharpened. Hopefully that will make the task of lawn mowing just a wee bit easier. Today it's repairs were complete. I humbly "pulled up" (as instructed) in the back with my dog, poop bag and sunglasses, to collect my mower, then begin my journey home. It was quite the scene: Charlotte pulling Andi, Andi pulling lawn mower. Luckily, there are about 100 ways to get home from the shop, so I picked the road least traveled. I didn't get any honks or people laughing hysterically and pointing...but I did get a few smiles from passer buyers, as well as a good laugh myself.