Temporary Drop Off

Yes. I drop(p)ed off writing my blog the last week. I suppose part of it has to do with

Olivia coming to Eugene on Monday with her mother, Molly, my stepdaughter. I've haven't lived with a baby in the house since my younger sister, Silver Valley Girl, was born, back in 1963. I haven't really come to grips with the fact that I'm a grandfather, but I'm very happy to be one.

I honestly think that my primary way of thinking about myself as a stepfather and a (step)grandfather is as a provider, as a source of support. Having helped provide a home and other necessities and luxuries for The Deke's children has given my life shape, purpose, and meaning in a profound way I had ever known before. Now I want to do what I can, with The Deke, to help provide for Olivia and most of my feelings about being her grandfather have to do with her, and her parents', welfare.

Olivia's arrival coincided with the start of the school year. The vibe in each of my classes was very good. I was in class ten hours this week, and I tried to be mindful each minute of each of those hours that I need to conserve energy, exert my energy efficiently, and do all I can not to get run down.

I did a good job of that, and yet, here I am, on Saturday evening, and my throat is scratchy, I feel slightly achy. I'm fighting something and hope with the help of water, apples, apple juice, Airborne, cups of a hot drink made up of honey, lemon, and Tobasco sauce, and cayenne pepper capsules that I can defeat it.

Today was a good day. Russell and I went on a walk along the Delta Ponds in north Eugene and took pictures. Here I am on our outing:



I'll be back tomorrow with the resumption of Three Beautiful Things!