a new day

My dad is cancer free! What a fantastic idea.  I like to think that even when shitty things happen, they leave, in their wake, the opportunity of something good.  There is not a better reminder to appreciate your health, than being at the hospital, beside the bed of a loved one.  It is a familiar place for me, but even I can always appreciate a gentle reminder.
  I also got a chance to remember how much I love being home, and my bed, and my fridge (and snack drawer). And Alan. Of course to add to it just a little, I got sick myself (just a cold) and have been on the mend for a few days. Oh irony, leave me the hell alone already. It's not funny any more and I am tired.

Layla starts 3rd grade at public school next week, and we all have mixed feelings about that.  We are excited but anxious. (Mostly me) I am also looking forward to having just one "student" at home this year.  Maggie is glad to get some extra attention for a bit, and I am glad to be able to give it to her.  The girls are growing and changing so fast, it's hard not to miss some things.  Maggie has no front teeth and Layla's reading has really taken off. (also she has aged about 20 years this year and insists on parenting me ALL of the time. As if I can't handle it myself.....ok, good point)

On a brighter note, I cashed in my award miles and got myself a ticket to Puerto Vallarta. I talked a friend into going with me, (it will be hot, HOT, and sticky humid) and we are excited to spend some much needed time in the shade and the pool and the bar.  It is sea turtle season and I am beyond excited to finally get to release baby sea turtles!  It is something I have always wanted to do, and since we usually travel on the other side of the year, I always miss it.  Mostly I am excited to just get away. Turns out that parenting and cancer and diabetes and stress are a lot for this girl.  I am hoping to return refreshed and revitalized and ready to tackle the school year. I will get back just in time to get packed for Las Vegas.  Alan is taking me to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. (I know! I AM too young to have been married that long! I still scold my mom for allowing such a thing to take place. I mean, it all worked out in the end but, GEEZ!)

I am thankful every day that I don't have to live with 99% of the decisions I made when I was 15. And I am thankful every day that I still get to live with one of them.  I love you Alan.