Wonderful Week!

What a delightful week, in every way!  I am so blessed with the friends in my life, and being able to share hours and adventures with them.  Gen and Rainy came down last Monday, and on her way through from New York she stopped to visit with my parents in Albion, and took them lunch and shared her dog with them.  They had a wonderful time; Gen’s smile and gentle loving spirit enriched their lives, not only for that hour or so but with happy thoughts to keep with them.  She got to my house (The Burke Bed and Breakfast!) about 4pm and unloaded the car.  Rainy sat at the door and watched the rain, not sure if she was going to be left alone as her ‘mommy’ made trips to the settle them in. It was nice to have a quiet evening, and we had homemade chicken soup and salads for supper before turning in early. 

Tuesday night, Gen cooked a wonderful supper, and her sister Dottie shared with us.  They enjoyed time in my living room, which is full of antiques and reflects a lot of my father (who ran an antique business -Wagon Shed Antiques- in the late 60’s and 70’s).  It’s like a walk back in time, and memories were flowing.  Wednesday Gen spent the day with her mom and two sisters, and by the time she got home, Rainy was wiped out; she was happy to plop onto her bed by the heater and sleep while Gen and I talked. 

Friday I was invited to go with them to Ikea; I hadn’t been there since about 2003 and it was fun to explore the displays and the marketplace. And the Pittsburgh skyline and rivers are always a treat to see.  Gen had cut several branches of forsythia from her frozen tundra, warmed them up, and shared a sprig or two with me.  They bloomed this morning and look wonderful on my window sill! 

My guests left early Saturday morning, and I’m always sad to see them go.  But I barely had time to shower and dress before I was on the road with my friend Teresa.  We spent the day roaming Cheswick and Tarentum, browsing in antique shops and following the not-so-lazy river.  My favorite was Diamond Antiques. We didn’t spend much money, but we invested in our long time friendship and had a great time seeing all the lovely displays. 

Sunday afternoon Roger drove down and took me to lunch, a belated Valentine celebration, and as always, we talked about all sorts of things and solved most of the worlds problems.  If only they’d listen!  We had brownies for dessert, and sat at home and listened to oldies (45 rpm’s!!!) on my record player (Thanks Kelly and Matt!!!). 

I’m ready to take a break, but tomorrow starts a new week with possible new adventures and opportunities, including lunch with Diane on Thursday and a trip to mom’s on the weekend.  All I can say is my cup overflows, with friends who continue to pour generous helpings of their love and time and adventures to share with me!  Thanks thanks thanks – and we’ll do it again and again!