My Mom and I took the kids in Kansas City late August/Early September this last year.
Our first morning, we made the three hour drive to Oswego, Kansas to see my Grandma Ruth. The winter before she moved from her house to the rest home in her town. Although all her belonging fit into her room, it still looked like HER HOUSE. I loved that. Tessa insisted on wearing her prairie dress, which I think was lovely. Grandma Ruth was in great spirits. She insisted on NOT wearing her oxygen.
After a few hours, the kids were getting restless. And so we said our goodbyes. She passed away six weeks later. (i.e. Kansas, Take 2) My lasts memories are of her standing strong, walking us to the door of the rest home. And me, wanting to get in one more hug. One more kiss. One more I love you. You were and still are loved, Grandma Ruth.
Back in the 90's, my Dad took me to BIG BRUTUS (a strip mine digger) on the way home from Oswego. It was a hot, but beautiful day, so I decided to stop and show my kids as well.
The next day the kids and I went to Antioch Park. I think that day was the hottest day of the summer in Kansas City. We were all a sweaty mess.
We went to see Grandma Nonny the next day. She and Tessa are soul mates I think. Lots of time holding hands between these two.
That evening, after the pool, we had dinner at my Aunt Janice's house and Tessa was in heaven with all the girls around. Harlow is a year younger than Tessa.
And Harlow's Dad is a fire fighter! Who happened to have time to bring the truck to the house. (That's Fireman Bill in the middle)
And then the little girls had cake.
Our last day we sent more time with family at the park. And Asher and Tessa walked Aunt Janice's dogs along trails that I had logged many (many many many) miles on.
And then it was time to head home. Tessa says "see you guys next year!"
