Lots of variety this week. You just never know what coast I'll be on week to week. ;)
November 4
In anticipation of Amanda coming for a visit, Avery planned a bathroom reno surprise. For a couple evenings Avery and Jack worked together on it.
November 5
Aiden was off of school because of Election Day so I engaged him in some yard projects, like emptying my flowers pots. Just like his dad, he doesn't question or complain or understand, just asks for instructions.
He made arrangements with a teammate to practice soccer...they're already deciding what they want senior year to look like in two years.
We passed a beautiful spot that I was driving by regularly in the spring when Amanda was in between cars and I was bringing her to work. A great deal in our lives has changed in just two seasons, a reminder to soak in this present (fleeting!) moment.
November 6
On Election Day, I said yes to a respite. My daily life changes very little based on who is in office. Either way, there is work to be done. For instance, a child in foster care doesn't care one bit about my political views or what the polls say, she just needs a safe, caring place.
What does the Lord require of us, independent of who is president? To actly justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8).
I went in to grab something out of the room while she was at school and thought, what a brave thing to unpack your personal items and set up your space, yet again. I so admire the guts that foster kids have.
November 7
This was maybe Shaun's last morning on the golf course for the season, but he had his best round, so that's pretty fun. And...he's always thinking of me and so very sweet.
Combined, it took a couple hours of wait time, but we spoke with two of my doctors to review my latest test results and it was decided I would start back up with chemo.
November 8
The kids had a half day, and once the social worker picked up our respite girl, we loaded up the car and headed to the airport.
Sarah, Tony and Armand were in Amanda's area for a hockey tournament so they stopped by her school to see her and the campus. So fun to get this picture of all their faces! Amanda was able to spend the next day with them, too and she appreciated seeing people from home.
November 9
Our annual financial services conference was held in San Diego this year. Because 1. its so far and 2. its so perfect, we decided to add on a couple days to adventure and explore. We were very excited to be able to extend the invitation to our entire team and their person. Additionally, we brought Aiden, so there were 11 of us in total. We planned two dinners and one private sunset sail but outside of that, everyone was able to choose how they wanted to spend the time.
The weather is just as perfect as they say...we had sunny and low 70's temps. Our hotel was conveniently located near the water and near downtown.
Took me some work to just be thankful to be there and not be angry that I was physically unable to venture far. I was "in the mix" but also, not really. I refused to stay upset about it and did the work to change my perspective. We found this little "beach" area where I spent a significant amount of the weekend reading, watching people, sleeping and talking to people.
My family went to Balboa Park and checked out a museum that was underwhelming. Jack did a nice job of taking pictures when I was not present with them.
Then they went kayaking at La Jolla. It was too windy to go in the caves but they were out for a while and then Shaun and Eric swam with leopard sharks!
After flying in at different times, we all met up for a seafood dinner (where Aiden tried and enjoyed octopus, among other things! I decided its not that he's a picky eater, he just has the wrong mom cooking for him).
November 10
Our breakfast place was a bit more healthy and organic that we expected...Avery and I thought it was great, the boys were unsure. We all agreed the views were amazing.
In the afternoon we all joined together again for a private sunset sail. The captain was exceptional and we enjoyed the sights and the snacks.
This night was mexican, another great time around the table.
