Passport and Rain

 Our passport appointment was surprisingly smooth. With so much in the news about the disorganization of the USPS, we were expecting delays and issues during our appointment. Instead we were pleasantly surprised when we were taken on time, dealt with quickly and out of the building within 20 minutes. Now we just have to wait for the passport to arrive for Robby to be ready for his big trip this summer.

I'm so glad that Robby and Scott are excited for their big European adventure this summer. With so much negative news, it is nice to have some authentic anticipation and happiness in our home. My only worry is that the state of the world (whether it be the pandemic or military unrest) will keep them from their trip. Neither of those issues are within my control, so I am trying to release that anxiety so I can simply enjoy the preparations.

The weather is miserable today. We have gone from nearly 80 degree temperatures on Wednesday to freezing rain and ice this morning. My leg has felt the impact of the wild fluctuations. I have been feeling the twinges that always accompany a new weather front. Hopefully the weather will stabilize soon, because this is not comfortable.

I can take some solace in the fact that Friend is nearly as miserable as me. He hates the cold rain and protests spending any time outside. His little legs go stiff and he refuses to move whenever he becomes wet. It's adorable, but not conducive for house training.

This weekend will be spent working and trying to avoid the news. My heart is breaking for Ukraine and those who have loved ones in the conflict. I wish there was something I could do to help.

Passport

The house is quiet this morning which, after the chaos of yesterday, is not a bad thing. I'm thoroughly enjoying the quiet as I work and sip on my coffee. The older I become the more I am enjoying the solitude that waking in the early morning offers. I never thought I'd be a morning person but I suppose that stranger things have happened.

Yesterday was chaotic from the moment I woke up. Timmy wasn't feeling right and it showed through his mood and behavior. He wasn't sick, but he certainly wasn't feeling well. He always manifests discomfort as mischief and need, which makes for a difficult and long day for everybody. 

This morning we are heading to submit the application for Robby's passport renewal. (Because he is a minor it must be submitted in person.) We've been waiting for this appointment for nearly a month and it can't be rescheduled. (I didn't realize how far ahead passport appointments need to be scheduled.) I'm hoping that Timmy is feeling better because having Timmy the Terrible at the Post Office will not be fun for anybody!

Caught Up

After working for hours without a break, my nephew was able to get caught up on his missing assignments. I think he was surprised that his "fun" Aunt Peggy could turn into such a strict teacher without missing a beat. I was proud of him and how hard he worked to finish his assignments without complaint or delay. Hopefully he will take the opportunity of being caught up and turn over a new leaf with his study habits.

With my goal of getting him caught up achieved, Timmy, Friend and I packed up and headed home. Yesterday it was lightly raining all day, but that didn't keep us inside. Despite being February, it felt more like April outside. Timmy and Friend thoroughly enjoyed playing in the warm raindrops, and I was happy to enjoy the temperature and fresh air.

Today is another drizzly day. I'm sure we will go outside, but I know it won't be as enjoyable for me as it was yesterday. The soft rain has slowly transformed my yard into a mud pit. I went outside to walk Friend this morning and almost immediately slipped on the mud. Thankfully I caught myself before falling, but I have learned my lesson. Today, I will stick to the concrete and asphalt.

Weekend Wrap Up

 Hello from Pennsylvania!

After Friend's obedience class on Saturday, Timmy and I packed up and headed to visit my Mom for a few days. Robby stayed at home with Scott, relaxing with a bachelor weekend. (They feasted at the Sheetz gas station and they did not change their clothes all weekend.) 

I think Timmy thoroughly enjoyed being the only recipient of his Nana's attention. He was silly and smiling all-weekend. Friend also seemed delighted to be reunited with his puppy cousins. The dogs zoomed and jumped down the halls and through the house until they collapsed with exhaustion. After a few hours, they were racing again. Although I missed Robby and Scott, it was nice seeing the youngest pair so happy.

Before I head home this this evening I am going to spend the hours helping my nephew with his schoolwork. His assignments accumulated when he was sick with Covid. I'm hoping to be able to help him to catch up. Wish us luck!