Yellow Parking Lot Flowers Friday, Jul 31 2009

30 July 2009

Thanks to the marvels of modern technology, I found out very late Wednesday night that a bunch of my friends were planning a breakfast outing. I was determined to include myself in that adventure, so at barely 7 a.m., Kelly called to wake me up, and I was ready to leave the site by 7:45 or so. We went to Frank’s Diner in Kenosha, and crowded nine of us into two tiny little booths and proceeded to have a wonderful time. Frank’s is one of those charming little places that sports both the surliest and the friendliest service you’ll ever run across—from the same people! It’s a place that when you feel your coffee cup has been empty too long, instead of flagging down an already overworked server, you simply get up, go behind the little counter, grab the pot and pour your own. But, if you do that, they then expect you to offer coffee to everyone else in the restaurant as well! I did that today!

The little yellow flowers were in the parking lot across the street from Frank’s. I don’t know what they are, but they are charming.

The rest of the day was a crazy combination of sewing, dancing, researching, writing, and more dancing. Whew!

~MB

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Memories on the Wall Friday, Jul 31 2009

29 July 2009

There’s a very long, sordid story to be told about why I was still in Florida for most of Wednesday.  Suffice it to say, that it was ultimately beyond my control, and I can’t recall the last time I was so frustrated.  But, in an attempt to make the most of my situation, I enjoyed a delightful breakfast and lunch with my mom and McKenna and Warren, and then Helen and Dick joined us, as well.   By dinner time—early dinner—we all headed toward the airport.  A restaurant on the way, and a 6:30 p.m. drop-off and I was soon on my way back to Wisconsin.  I got back to my truck, and except for some nasty construction-related traffic, the trip was uneventful and I got to the faire site right at midnight.   Tired, glad to be back in cool summer temperatures, and with a cat who evidently missed me, I went almost straight to bed.

My photo is of a collage-style photo frame my mom keeps hanging on the wall.  It depicts many memorable moments—and indeed many of my favourite photos—from thoughout my younger days . . . and hers. Feel free to ask questions!

~MB

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Melanie and William’s Wedding Day Friday, Jul 31 2009

28 July 2009

“This is the Day . . . this is the Day . . .”

My little brother got married, today! Woo hoo! After a number of years of searching for the right person to share his life, and complete his little family, today, Melanie became Mrs. Gribble.

The ceremony was planned for today, a Tuesday, mostly to allow me to attend. In the middle of a nine-weekend renfaire, the only way I could be there was if they picked a mid-week day, and since flying to and from Orlando is such a challenge, a Tuesday was pretty perfect. I was very grateful that they were willing to plan with me in mind. The gathering of folks was small and intimate—my mother’s chosen family of friends, many who harken back to the days when they all lived in Kansas. I think we were a party of 21 or so for the luncheon reception—which was fabulous!

As you can see from my photo, Melanie looked beautiful for her wedding day. William was as dashing as ever in his tuxedo, despite the extreme heat and humidity. And, McKenna was perfect.

My mom pretty much planned the ceremony itself. There was some music, a very brief homily, a couple of scripture readings (yours truly got to do those) and all the typical wedding stuff. It was lovely.

After the wedding and the luncheon, we all went back to the house for cake and gifts. By the time the crowd dispersed, it was time for another meal. William and Melanie left for their Key West honeymoon after a smaller informal dinner at a local barbecue joint.

It was a beautiful day. All went well. And, most importantly, they’re married! Woo hoo!

~MB

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