{ muffins for dinner }

Weather: California, as we all know, has its problems. But, whenever I think about moving out of state, I think about our weather and what it means to leave it. Sure, we don't have as distinctive seasons as some, but our trees still turn colors and drop their leaves. We get rain. And when it snows, it is only a few hours drive. And of course, we get lots of sun.

Today it is warm, sunny and breezy – just the way I like it.

On My Mind: My mom came to visit over the fourth of July weekend. In true Grandma fashion, my mom spoiled Goose with endless love and attention. As my mom pulled away from the curb, my sweet little daughter, while fighting back tears, said "I don't want Grami to leave." Hearing her words broke my heart as I too had just felt the same way. I picked up my daughter, held her close and told her it was okay to cry and to feel sad. Thanks to my English "stiff upper lip" ancestry (and 30+ years of practice) I have learned to control those emotions. Maybe I need to take my own advice and just cry sometimes.

Daily Knitting: I am so proud of myself, I finished up my LUX Sockees before starting up a new project. They came out super cute and I am planning on reworking the pattern so I can make a pair that will fit me. I finally checked my gauge and I was right on. I think the pattern must be for smaller feet or my yarn is not as stretchy as it should be.

Mothering/Cooking: I am especially enjoying my time with Goosie these past few months. Maybe part of the reason is, I am finally realizing that my little Goose isn't going to be "little" forever. I am realizing that the day is coming when she will stop asking to help or suggest that we make something good together. And… the day is coming when her entire world won't revolve around me anymore; a day that will be met with happiness and sadness.

This afternoon I walked into the kitchen to find Goose standing on a chair in front of the cabinet with a box of blueberry muffin mix. She lit up and said, “let’s make this.” I realized cooking the pie the other day was quite an undertaking for a three year old. This small box of muffin mix was sure to offer more instant gratification.

Together we sat at our kitchen table with a muffin and fresh sliced fruit for dinner.

Bit of Randomness: Maybe it is just me, but this morning I got to open a new bottle of deodorant and I am quite pleased with myself. I love the ceremonial throwing away of the old bottle and the anticipation of opening the new the next day. I can't wait, I am almost out of lotion.