The Dawn of a New Decade

The dawn of the new decade has given me plenty of thought about the last ten years: the highs and lows, the blessings and challenges, and the many ways that our lives have been changed forever. More than ever I feel the urgency to live fully each day and find the joy in every moment, because there is no telling what changes the next decade will bring.

I couldn't bear to miss a "birthday date" with Leo when he asked me so sweetly if I was going to be able to make it to Montana, so with the help of Amy & Ben and the girls to care for Lee, I booked a quick trip to Billings. I looked a little crazy at the airport in Houston wearing my boots, coat, scarf, hat, gloves, etc., but it was snowing when the plane landed, and I definitely needed every bit of my winter clothing in the sub-zero weather. The temperatures actually improved while I was there, and got up above zero, but January in Billings is cold!

Leo had some great ideas for our birthday date and we had a great time spending an evening together. We went to Target first for a shopping spree, including sports equipment, Matchbox cars, and a new book to read. A new Panera Bread restaurant had just opened in Billings, and although Leo had already been there with his family, he really wanted to take me there too. He particularly had fun ordering for us at the computer kiosk, and loved sitting up to the bar to eat. Our last stop was at the Rimrock Mall for dessert-to-go at Cinnabon. Leo is such a unique and special boy. He is sweet, kind, sensitive, thoughtful, and super smart. He has an amazing memory, loves to read, play games, puzzle, and play sports. He has a particular talent for the piano, and is an especially good driver!

Besides having a great time celebrating Leo's 9th birthday, I also got to spend some quality one-on-one time with June and Ruby too. June was anxious to share her new world of kindergarten with me, and I loved listening to her read and practice the piano. Ruby is getting into the "pretending" stage and was constantly changing from one character to another.

It does this grandma's heart good to steal away from the everyday cares of daily living for a few days to live in the world of her precious grandchildren. A fantastic way to launch into the unknown of the new decade.