The past couple of weeks have been busy and a bit more stressful than usual. Some days I exceeded my calorie goal and other days I was under my goal, but there was no consistency. I hope I can do better in the coming week.

-My father-in-law fell at the memory care center where he lived and he was admitted to the hospital on 8/3. Then he progressed to hospice care and passed away 8/13.

-My husband traveled to Boston on 8/4 to spend time with his Dad while I was dog sitting for our friends 8/5-8/10. She’s a sweet dog but she’s also anxious, oblivious about traffic, and an escape artist!

-Our son turned 25 years old on 8/14 and came for a visit from Boston to celebrate with family and friends 8/8-8/17. When my great-aunt died in December, he adopted her cat. So, we had to be careful that Oliver the cat didn’t interact with Amelia the dog during the three days their stays overlapped.

-Four of us (plus Oliver) drove from the DC area to Boston on Saturday 8/16. Our son canceled his Sunday night return flight to drive with us so he could attend the Sunday afternoon services. The cat was a trooper during his first flight and his first long car ride but, when we tried to use the new harness at the rest area, he was like Houdini! He did well with the harness in the car, etc. but escaped for a brief moment in the parking lot — so scary! 😰 My son snatched him up quickly.

-I caught a cold from my son (who woke up sick on his birthday) so I was feeling lousy during my father-in-law’s services but everything was beautiful. The community really came out to support the family and celebrate what a kind and loving person he was.

-My husband booked a one way flight home because he had a business trip the next afternoon. So, I drove back to Alexandria, Virginia with my younger son after the reception. We left Boston about 4:30pm and arrived home just before 12:30am so we made good time. It was more relaxed and comfortable with just the two of us and no cat (and kitty litter box, etc.) to worry about. He drove more than I did because I wasn’t feeling well, which I really appreciated— so sweet!

-I didn’t get much work done since we got back late Monday night/early Tuesday. So, I need to buckle down today and concentrate. My younger son and I already had a trip to Boston planned tonight through Tuesday night to help my mother with some doctor appointments, etc. So, we’re off again this afternoon! 🙃

It was nice to see so many friends, neighbors, and family members but it was all very brief. This time, we’ll be able to slow down— I hope! 🧘‍♀️