I have been thinking a lot about things with the recent death of my dear Grandfather.  We have been very involved in helping my Grandmother take care of things that, while difficult, are necessary.   One of the bittersweet parts of all of this has been selling the tack from his sale barn.  It has been so much fun to sit and reminisce with his buddies as they would come to visit and just hang out.  This barn is sort of the cowboy equivilent of "Cheers".....when the doors are open, folks are coming in to talk, or shop...but mostly talk.  I know we have had no less than 605 cowboys in as we sorted through things to be kept and sold.  One precious friend, Mr. Sam even told my sister and me after one full day, "Call me tomorrow and I will come hang out with you again."  I love that.  I think Pawpaw would too.  His granddaughters at his barn wheeling and dealing....and remembering fun times.  You know what it boils down to in my mind?  People like connections.  I love the connection to the past, and things that have held us in good stead that my Pawpaw represented to me.  I like knowing that I can still talk to people who knew him and my father well.  I like hearing all the funny stories that they all shared together.  My children like that too.  Children in particular need connections to things of the past I think.  Things that remind them what is important.  In my sons' case, things that show them how to be men.  I like that there is no shortage of men, who were Pawpaw's friends to show them those things, and remind me of the great times with my Grandfather. 

Speaking of Pawpaw, we always had a tradition of planting tomatoes.  He always planted them for us (mostly because he didn't think women in his life should have to work too hard....he was such a provider and protector) in containers...This year, it was up to me.  I bought my plants today and have prepared my soil to his secret specifications.  Man, he could grow some good tomatoes.  I also planted purple petunias, yellow and purple million bells, yellow Osteospermum, purple nemesia and white impatiens.  It has been a great day here today, beautiful weather for planting. 

My children have discovered a new litter of kittens in the hayroom.  Just what we needed.  We have 11 without the newest ones!  Oh well, I haven't any snakes in my barn!  LOL!!!  They have tried to convince me all day that they are hungry because the Mama won't feed them.  They really want them in the house....and I really don't...LOL!! 

Peace to you~