This Month of June, 2010...

It's been a year since we returned from Italy. A year ago today we were not as yet back in our home and were staying with good friend Jill. We were unemployed and wondering what kind of opportunities would manifest.

So here we are a year later and we all know that we both have good but intense jobs. We've gotten back into the swing of Seattle life but still, not a day goes by when I don't think of our time in Europe.

This month of June has been a month of graduation and new beginnings. A month of watching dear friends pack and drive away for a new life in California. A month to journey to Florida for Kim to visit her father and take joy in his presence.

After Ken's death, John decided he needed to leave Seattle for a fresh start.
John and Clayton decided to move to Palm Springs, California.
(Note: Hot as hell there but there's only so much warning a girl can give...
They're big boys and just because I would have to kill myself if
I had to move there doesn't mean I can't support their insane desires.)

As we all know, moving is intense but Clayton has maintained his sense of humor.

This is a sight that Kim and I have been dreading for quite some time.
Good friends are not always easy to come by; we've lost a number in the past years.
I do try to remind myself that this time it is a bit different
because we've lost John & Clayton...
to life.

For old time's sake (and a lock) we took a final stroll to the boy's favorite store.

And to remind of life and changing occurrences
(in a blink of an eye)
Kim backed into a huge dump truck parked across the street as we tried to pull away.
One of our common comments at such events is, (in this case me to Kim):
"Better you than me."

Soon after the boy's departed, Kim left for Florida to visit her father for
Father's Day. He resides in West Palm Beach--also a place that is hot as hell AND humid!
How and why do people live in these places??

Kim always takes her father (Ted) to a place called, "Friendly's" for ice cream.
He transferred his love for ice cream to her and
it is a powerful genetic connection.

Afterward, to burn off a few of those calories, they did some dancing...

Ted used to teach professional dancing--
dancing is one of his many talents and life loves.

What I remembered about life this month:
1) It's always hard to say goodbye.
2) Act on your impulses when it comes to keeping in touch with family and friends.
3) Airlines give last minute discounts.
4) Rest and observe: Helps us to manage the fluctuations of life's challenges.