A New Normal

Over Spring Break, my husband and I took a road trip to Missouri. This may sound like an everyday occurrence to most, but we've been sidelined by health issue for seven years, so I feel like I should write ROAD TRIP in capital letters. We crossed over Texas, through Oklahoma, into Missouri and back to a normal life. A life that includes road trips with my husband driving. And pictures to prove our normalcy.

Or not, as evidenced by our side trip to the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, Missouri. I collected the little statues in the early 80s, but the fans that inhabit the Chapel and it's adjoining gift shop are FANS. From all over the world they pilgrimage to purchase those little wide eyed statues, under a Sistine chapel-like ceiling. Except that all major characters wear Precious Moment faces. Been there, done that, didn't get one of the 100s of t-shirts. Or mugs. Or dishes. Got to spend great time with my newlywed daughter talking, laughing, shopping and eating. My favorite kind of normal.
We celebrated a joint young son-in-law/new father-in-law birthday. The cake traveled across three states, created by the famous Lone Star Bakery in Round Rock, Texas...the same people who baked the couple's wedding cakes on November 3, 2007.

And, meet the Grandpup, Tex. This little guy stole our hearts in moments. He is only a few months old, but when he grows into his giant paws, I'm pretty sure he will be able to fetch his own doggie treats off the top of the refrigerator.

Road trips. Kitschy tourist traps. Time with the kids. Birthday cake. My husband driving. Does life get any better than this?

Well, yes.

I ridiculed it, swore I'd never get one, raged against the machine... and then succumbed to the pressure. My feet are sandal ready for spring. Meet my new best friend:

At least it's not a ShamWow.