Mother's Day...

It is absolutely beautiful up here! Finally, the temperatures have achieved a respectable 70-plus degrees and there's not a raindrop in sight. The mornings remain chilly. It was 31 degrees on Thursday morning last week. Bu that just means good sleeping weather.We did some chores yesterday; mowed and washed the deck. Today I'll get the table set up properly outside so we can begin al fresco dining. We'll try out the pizza pan that works on the grill tonight. I managed to cut out the pieces for the baby quilt yesterday as well and will begin piecing it this week while John is away (again).

It's Mother's Day today. We'll go up to a little cafe in Chimicum for lunch to note the occasion. It's in a wee town (called Chimicum, no less) on the way to Port Townsend, about 40 minutes drive from here. Folks say it's worth the trip, so we'll use today as the excuse to check it out. The saying goes that "a mother is only as happy as her unhappiest child" and today I can say that I am pretty happy. They all seem to be in a good place. Son Jacob is (physically) in Australia where he has been since the end of last month for a conference related to his new Director position. First time out of the country! Daughter Kate is preparing for our first grandchild later this summer and is happily settled in her married life. Daughter Karen is making a difference to kids who are challenged and challenging. She has challenged herself as well by running Marathons. Son Gareth continues to use his skills in support of workers. We are proud of each one. Makes "Mother's Day" a no-brainer.

We spent Friday evening at a going-away gathering for some folks in my department at work, It was held at a cabin in Seabeck, along the Hood Canal and with a lovely view of the mountains. It's a pretty part of the world. John made gnocchi and I made a (vegan) marinara sauce for the event. Everyone brought something and it was a nice way to begin the weekend. Work is busy these days and I am looking forward to our (short) vacation in a couple weeks. We will travel to Tennessee and spend time with the 2 people who have known me the longest. My sisters! It's all good...