Friday morning found me a little groggy and road weary.  Allen was traveling and I had been glued to my mail and phone for 48 hrs so as not to miss an update. Grandpa, the only father I've known, entered hospice care and died soon after.  

There would be no more news on funeral planning for several hours due to the time difference between here and there.  I briefly considered crawling back into bed but the sun was beckoning and little people were getting cabin fever. Some days you just know you will be more rested when you wear them out.  So we packed up the blanket, packed water bottles and sunscreen, and met our friends at the Seewoog.

Maria is one of those friends I don't see often but, when we do, words spill out easily. The time passed is quickly bridged and there is great comfort found sharing with another soldier's mom.

( I suggested sunscreen…)

(the men in this family take ball sports seriously!) 

  The boys ran themselves ragged playing ball in the open fields.  The ant mound drew them not surprisingly, and plans were made to begin an ant farm.  (and just as quickly laid aside ; )) The little girls, too, fell right back into step.  With clasped hands they roamed the reed strewn banks with their brothers, bringing us lily fronds and fish eggs, daisies and dandelion.  We left filled to the brim.  Just what the day called for.