Grandma Sue Comes to Stay

Susan, Neal's mother, came for her annual August visit.  It was great to spend time with her.  She had lost 80 pounds since last year and looked great.  She also had more energy to play with those grandkids of hers and run around town with the family. 

We had a lot of fun.  We went out to Lake Lewisville to beat the Texas heat.  We finally got Rhys to put his feet down on the sandy ground when in the water.

We went for a nature walk at the Heard Wildlife Sanctuary but at the end of the walk we took a wrong turn and ended up hiking up steps and wearing everyone out before making it back. We did see a water snake, though.  That was cool.  Also, as a lovely souvenir, we took home some chiggers--just Sophie and Keri.  Maybe our cat brought some in, we are not sure how we got them we just know that we got eaten good.

We also had the chance to see the Barnett side of the family and get caught up.  We missed Alvin, though, who passed earlier this year. They are a kind, accommodating bunch.

From Right to Left: Susan, Melba, Dorothy, Frank, Diane

We also shopped, watched the kids play in the fountains, visited the farmer's market, hit a few restaurants, and went for some walks.  Neal and I even went on a date to the Crow Collection of Asian Art in Dallas. The museum was spotlighting the mystical arts of Tibet.  We were able to observe monks preparing the mandala surface for the sand and an outdoor blessing for adults and children encompassing emotional well-being, wisdom, and healing.  Which sounded like chanting, singing, chanting, singing, followed by yet more chanting.  It was interesting to see another culture and religious view.

It was a nice 10 days with Susan.  Because we live in Texas, we had to send Grandma off with much fanfare!  The day before leaving we parked ourselves along the parade route for Allen's High School Band.  Every year before school starts they march the city through neighborhoods and parks to kick off the new year.

Neal was in band in California but band is BIG here.  It is actually cool to be in the band here.  The band is huge!  Neal was in a band of approximately 30.  Allen has well over 600 members! and includes band, color guard, and drill team.  They just kept coming and coming.  They had police escort, a prop plane doing fly-bys, and all!  It was fun and a great way to show Susan that we do everything big here in Texas.

 Glad you came Grandma Sue!  We love you and will see you next year!