Weekend Retreat

These women: strong, loyal, intelligent, loving.

This place: serene, beautiful, relaxing, attentive.

This weekend: an annual (when we are lucky) trip to celebrate our friendship, made possible by supportive husbands and my ever generous parents.

More than manicures, complimentary champagne and shopping - though we love all that too - this weekend with these women renews me, comforts me, cheers me.

We talk late into the night about our children (as all mothers do), about the unbreakable bond we share forever, and, in this safe environment we create for each other, about our hopes, fears, desires. Sometimes we cry, but more often we laugh; blessed by a friendship that makes each of us better.

Le Anne and Susan, I am forever grateful for the gift of your friendship!

Snow Day 8

But hey, who's counting (as every mother in Carroll County raises her hand).

This storm was the big one. We had about 14 inches when we ventured out to plow, shovel and play; and as I type the flakes are falling again with another 4-6 inches expected, and snow day 9 already called for tomorrow.

Beamer, being thankful she's not an outside cat*

That little lump is our snowdog's head

Snow ball fight at close range

Love having neighbors and friends come over to play

Good night snow. See you again (sigh) tomorrow

*A few weeks back I trapped the stray mama cat and the kitten that stayed close; long story but they are now comfy in our guest room. I hope to soon be able to get them to the vet for spaying and shots, and release them back outside (despite our efforts they are not house cats), but I'm so thankful that at least they aren't out in this endless winter.