24 plus

The following is a list of things I don't want to forget from my 24 plus hours of Minnesota therapy. Sometimes a girl just needs to get away, right? These moments give me a clearer perspective on my life right now:

• my phone call from Eleanor as I drove the 3 boring hours up north and hearing her sweet voice say, "No way" as clear as day

• being greeted as I got out of the car by the sight of Caleb sprinting out to hug me and help me carry my bags in

• seeing Neva and her popped out belly (I can't WAIT to meet baby Ivar!)

• trading coon stories with the boys

• hearing about the "tons" of squirrel shot by Caleb

• sneaking info out of Jake about the school dance the night before, and the dance move demonstrations that followed

• burning brush and enjoying hanging by the fire late afternoon

• watching the boys run routes with their dad

• the unbelievable sunset-glowing over the rolling, snow-covered hills...and the amazing view in every direction

• the joy of a crowded kitchen

• making dinner and having the boys in the kitchen goofing around with me, while Pete and Neva relaxed in the other room

• Caleb's post-dinner request: "Pammy? A little rub-a-dub? Hmm?" apparently, still not to old for snuggling with his aunt, as long as there's a back rub involved

• Jake's wide-eyed request that followed. He had just woken up from a long nap, asked for a back rub--I, of course, said yes, but then he fell asleep again before he could cash it in!