A full day...

Today, we began the day with family and ended the day with a trip to the park. In between, we made a quick visit to Archivers in hopes of locating Ali Edward's new book, "Sharing Your Story". After chasing Ethan around the store for a solid fifteen minutes, I wasn't able to locate Ali's book, though I did meet up with a few new lines from Fancy Pants (don't you just love the name of this company? Smile.). Since Summer CHA, I've been anticipating the release of Fancy Pant's newest product; "All Fall" & "The Daily Grind". I've been especially interested in the printed chipboard shapes that come packaged in the prettiest of boxes. There's a box of chipboard shapes available from each line. They're unlike any chipboard shapes I've used in the past. There's a nice variety in each package and the colors and prints a reminder of Autumns arrival along with a new school year. You'll be amazed by the number of pieces they're able to fit in a single package. I took home some items and added them to my collection. I also took some photos before putting the items away in their rightful places. Take a peek below:

Before our afternoon adventure to the store and local park, we shared in a visit with family. I was little anxious about the visit knowing that I was going to have to confront the story that is my life, losing Eric. The standard question always being, "how are you doing?" I wish there was an easy answer to this question. The question itself is simple. Typically, I answer with "I'm doing ok. Hanging in there." In plain English, "I don't really know." People ask me this question with the greatest of sincerity, though finding the answer requires me to revisit my inner self and locate where I am within the grieving process. Today, was the first time that I was able to respond to the question with a different sort of answer, "I'm making plans for the future." I didn't feel any sudden sense of angst upon hearing the question. My response was honest and natural. The truth is,  I'm finally able to see a future for myself. It's a gigantic step for me. This doesn't go to say that the grieving process is behind me. I have a long ways to go. Though it does say that I'm one step closer to finding peace.

I had a great time at the family gathering. I had opportunity to catch up with cousins, aunts, and uncles that I hadn't seen a very long time. All of us had stories to share of past and present. I brought my camera along to capture the reunion (of sorts):

Lastly, I took Ethan to the local park. We were due for a visit and while there, Ethan rode the slides, both big and small, and dug himself a few holes in the ground cover...he was fascinated by wood chips. Laugh. I captured a glimpse of his woodchip discovery with my camera...it's by far my favorite photo right now of Ethan:

 

How's this for a park? Man, we didn't have parks like this when I was kid. Laugh.

 

We couldn't leave the park without a second discovery, the drinking fountain. I had to peel him away from this new found gadget. He could of played with it for hours. So cute.

Ethan also got a new pair of shoes today. Size 7. First shoes of the new Fall Season. He wanted to take them off a minute after we got in the car. Laugh. No surprises there. Wearing shoes after a long, hot Summer of wearing sandals is never very fun. It takes time to get used to the transition.

Be back Tuesday with a new layout and an announcement. Hope all of you had a splendid weekend!