Well Worth Having

Our first day back was a flurry of activity. I had the easy job of emptying the camper, while Carm slaved away at the grass. Six weeks without cutting made for a hayfield and not a lawn. Plus it was a bit wet to make the job that much harder. Still, in "just" a little over four hours he got it done! With a push mower! And being attacked by wasps - he figures 4-6 stings. Luckily he didn't have a big reaction...

After recovering (somewhat) in the shower we headed over to our neighbors for supper. I don't think either of us stopped talking the whole time we were there, regaling them with stories of our trip. They were lucky to avoid the 1500 photos that I took ;-) I started going through the photos yesterday, renaming and sorting but I didn't get more than a small fraction finished. This time I'm tagging the good photos and copying them to another directory for viewing - unlike NZ when they were all put it the same giant folder. The extras will be saved, but won't be inflicted on anybody except myself. It is hard to choose though!



Today (Tuesday) we got into the car for some more driving. Yup. More driving. This was just a short 1 1/2 hour drive to Ruth's house to pick up Grace. When we walked into the house Grace came running to that side of the cage, and as soon as she stopped being fierce with Carm (perhaps she blamed him!), she stepped up on my hand and wouldn't let go for an hour. At lunch time I had to peel her off to put her in her cage. I guess she was happy to see me. I was sure happy to see her.

Ruth served us a lovely lunch while we visited on the porch (looking out on the lake - very nice). We babbled about our trip, monopolizing the conversation again. Thank goodness we have understanding friends ;-)

As we drove home I had thoughts of full-timing in my head. The idea of selling everything and setting out on a lifetime of adventure is alluring, but will likely remain a daydream. I'm sure in a few days I'll be settled back into my regular life :-)

Since there is nothing so well worth having as friends, never lose a chance to make them.

Francesco Guicciardini