picnic in portland

I have one more California story to share, mostly because I want to remember this moment of my stellar mothering skills.  The first night we were there the hotel's fire alarm went off not long after we'd all gone to bed.  This alarm includes a screeching siren blaring and a strobe light-like light flashing on and off (we assume this if for deaf folks. It is a presence!).  I did what any rational mother would do in the face of such adversity: I buried my head under my pillows and pulled the covers over me.  Win!  Realizing that this was probably not the best solution, I jumped out of bed and scooped up Kyalo (who was still asleep, amazingly) and asked my parents what we should do.  Fortunately, we'd been given the all-clear signal so didn't have to go outside in our jammies.  I think this guarantees me Mother of the Year 2011!

Moving on.

After we traveled home in a convoluted manner thanks to Irene, (LA to Phoenix to Baltimore -- where we slept for five hours in the middle of the night -- to Boston) we quickly recovered and moved on with our plans. Time was running out! 

It was important to see some dear family friends, Judy & Neil.  I've known them forever. They're some of my parents' friends who have become my friends as well. I feel rich in the community that surrounds me.  Judy & Neil live waaay up in Maine, and so we met about half way for each of us in Portalnd for a picnic in a park.  It was a perfect summer day, and we had a great time.  Most important, of course, was introducing them to Kyalo.

picnic spread. yum.

 meeting Judy. I think he likes her!

 

This New England boy needs to represent with a lobstah! Thanks Auntie Judy & Uncle Neil :)

 he came around to the Bumbo (and here he is, using cousin Campion's gift again)

Judy, Neil, Kyalo, Dad & Mom

I love this photo. Of course, no one is looking at the camera, but the love that shines through from both Judy & Neil is so precious to me.  It is so wonderful that people who have loved me and shaped me as I've grown are now showering that same love on to my son.  We may not see people as often as I would like, but Kyalo will always know he is loved the world over!

My one regret from the day is that I didn't get a photo of me with them.  I guess we'll just make that happen next time.

Thanks, Judy & Neil for a wonderful day.