Taking a break is hard to do... Yesterday I made myself set up my hammock and attempted to _not_ work. Alas, I almost succeeded. Somehow there is something that has to be done every day. However, I enjoyed reading and swinging in the breeze while I enjoyed the view from my deck.
The weather is pretty warm. Our trip to Chicago worked out well because we missed the massive quantities of pollen that besieged the area. There is a carpet of yellow over everything.
I barely recooperated for the wildlife festival, but it went well. It was great to run into many old collegues that I had not seen in a while. The festival also had some great entertainers. Fun for all. My volunteers kept me on my toes...and humble. Nothing like great pals.
Meanwhile, back on the deck...the birds are busy with their nests. I am happy to report that there were no bird dramas in the area yesterday. If you sit quietly it is amazing how much activity there really is. Many of my visitors protest that the area is too quiet, but I find the opposite.
Last night was the monthly town potluck and I was happy to catch up with friends and neighbors. I love living in a small town (most of the time) and enjoy the comfort of having people around me that are friendly and concerned for one another.
If you are familiar with California in the 1960's then you have an idea about what this town is like. It is a journey back in time.
Residents here know all our neighbors for blocks, stop to chat when we meet on the street--which makes any jaunt into town much longer than it should be! The post office and the moose lodge are the town social centers. We also have the morning coffee group who dialog over current events and such.
Yesterday I shipped out some goodies to my youngest sister who is expecting later this year. The postmistress was happy to hear the news and wondered why I wasn't shipping to the rest of the clan (my niece and other nephews). She manages to keep track of everyone and reminds me when it has been a while since I've shipped goodies!
In my innocence, I didn't realize how important mail is to kids. I send the niece and nephews postcards from my journeys around the state and elsewhere. The reports back are that they are VERY excited. The postcards get carried everywhere and end up at show and tell in school.
I'm excited about the next shipments as I'll be sending some photos along with the next surprize boxes--Auntie Diana has photos with Elmo, Dora the explorer, Jazz the dreamdog, and a few other notable characters.
I am the favorite Aunt and regress to under seven quite frequently with them.
