Deana-weena and her old swing.

Thursday, May 21
In the morning, Mom took me to Target to return stuff and do a bit more shopping. I really wanted to find a new swim suit but nothing appealed to me. It will come.

I did find a nice pair of jogging pants on sale, a t-shirt with peacock feather imprint and a soft, lightweight zip-up hoodie – obviously more clothes for the workout scene. However, I’ve gotten so used to wearing these enormously comfortable types of pants; I don’t know that I’ll ever switch back.

At home again, we had a nice visit from Deana and her mom Gayle. I used to kid-sit Deana before I could even drive. And she’s made herself into a lovely young woman and a happy little life for herself. Visiting us yesterday was a privilege as she was only three weeks from her baby’s due date. It was a good visit though I felt I did most of the talking.

They brought a beautiful bouquet of peach colored roses. We presented her with books for the baby, old marbles Deana used to play with and a wooded swing we painted together that used to hang from the strong arm of my grandparent’s tulip poplar. (I have Nancy to thank for inspiring me with this fun gift idea.)

Mom made a cherry custard pie and hoagies for a lekker dinner. I had a nice sit-out on the deck again with Gram. Tried to get a film of the purple martins but the lighting was too low. We’re all enthralled with their behavior and their calls make me fall in love with them all over again every time it’s replayed. I must try again to capture it so you can see and hear for yourself.

Mom's calla lilies and Gram on deck.

Friday, May 22
Yvonne came by for an early morning coffee on her way into work, which she does. Her company was one of those that had gotten a number of seats for the Miner’s. As she’d heard about our plight, she was able to swing enough tickets for us to be able to go to the opening game. Cool, huh?

Mom took Gram to the hairdressers as usual. From all the activity the past few days, I just needed some rest. So, I caught up on the blog, trying to decide how to condense the first week into a quicker entry. Not easy. Every day is filled with the little things that make being here special. (This is when I decided to just go day by day.)

In the mid afternoon, a couple of long lost relatives came by to see us. Greg and Mike Broeking came by with their mother, Pauline, who is anything but long away. I never forget a face but I didn't recognize either of them so you can imagine just how long they've been away.

Later, Mom made a spontaneous decision that we should jump in the car and go visit our neighbor, Peggy. She's had health battles of her own and won. It was delightful to see her so well though she wished she could have been looking her best for the photo. Peggy used to cut my hair when I was little - mostly in a "bowl" cut.

At 7:30, Mom and I went to Jordan’s little league game. Her team won and I got some decent photos. It was fun watching her because she was so into it. Jen says she was just the same way when she was played sports. The apple is still hanging in the tree!