This summer was split between enjoying Shady Lane and finishing some projects. Luckily, the boys are at an age where they either want to help or can occupy themselves. Balance plays a key factor here. I am usually the voice of reason when it comes to quitting time. We might hit a stumbling block or have something not work out the way we had expected, and that creates a natural stopping time. The weather will also dictate our schedule. Running electric tools in the rain is not suggested.
But mostly, looking at our boys and knowing they need some QT {quality time} is the number one reason we call it quits.
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The pillar that stands between these two is my grandmother. The matriarch of the Powell family. Born in Michigan, she found her way to the countryside of Pennsylvania where she has been settled for nearly 30 years. The mother of eight daughters, grandmother to sixteen grandchildren, and great-grandmother to sixteen more, she continues to show me what life is about. She loves drinking coffee, playing cards, and picking Christmas presents for her entire family. She does not let a day go by without crocheting a blanket. Her tradition has been to crochet one for all her grandchildren. Her fear of not being here to enjoy milestones in our family has caused her to create a stockpile of blankets for future generations. As the years continue to pass, this woman is slowing down. She is no longer able to enjoy the outdoors and her gardens due to years of smoking. However, she is still here and still moving. She refuses to sit too long for fear that she will die. True story that she will tell you herself if you give her the chance.
To be honest, when we lost my grandfather in 2006, I thought she would quickly leave this earthly world and join him. Back on the farm, hand-in-hand. Heartbreak would be the cause. In my mind, I gave her a year to survive without him. The rationale for my thinking was simple: Pop-pop was her everything; husband, friend, provider, love of her life, father of her eight daughters, and her true soul mate. Yet next month marks the eighth year without him. I am not sure she realizes, but with each visit comes a new picture. I don't want to miss an opportunity to capture memories of her with the boys, with me, and with the family she is so proud of. We spent our 11th Anniversary at the Mushroom Festival Parade with the Kazoo Crew. This is one of our favorite events in our hometown. My brother and his family journeyed their way to Kennett Square to take part in the festivities.
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AuthorTraci, a wife, mother of two boys, Special Education teacher, and sole proprietor of Eco Alternatives LLC. Archives
September 2021
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