It's a dogs life and a cats too!

Our pets have been a huge part of our journey. They actually have been a pleasure. We have our two dogs minus our little Duke of course and our two cats. Our cats have been the biggest surprise. Our outgoing Midnight hasn't traveled well. Once the slides are in she is under the passenger seat. Then there is our anti-social cat Jezebel who loves traveling. Spending her time riding in the dash or laying in Larry's lap. Our doggies have done well too. Zuzu who stresses terribly when she's in the car has mellowed nicely. Only jumping when we bump a highway travel strip. Miya - "Miss I love the outdoors" paces a bit. Especially when we've driven all day. She is something of a caged tiger. However, I have never seen a happier dog than Zuzu when she got to the beach. Each of them have been great. Easing tensions and loving both of us in their own unique way. We are so grateful we made the decision to bring them along. I have to say... we miss our Duke!

Jim and Flo

While visiting Southern California one of my goals was to visit my grandparents grave. They have been gone a long time. My Grandma died in 1968 coincidentally the same day as my Mother, November 21st. My Grandpa died in 1971. However, I still remember them. My Grandma loved her flowers, especially her rose bush tree. Ice tea was one of her favorites. My Grandpa had previously suffered a stroke. So my only memory of him was that he was bed ridden.

Sadly, my main memories are those of my Mom and I visiting their graveside in Rose Hills Cemetary every Memorial Day. Driving out there this time I wondered why they had picked sites so far out. However, driving into the cemetery and seeing all the beautiful rose bushes I had my answer, it had been Grandma's pick for sure. Such beautiful flowers, rows and rows of them.

Back to way back when... my Mom and I would first start by stopping and picking out the perfect flowers, Mom referring to each of their personal favorites. Then off to the cemetery. Mom, so sweetly, would rake and sweep and clean their graves and place the flowers just so. I suppose visiting there again made me feel very emotional because I missed my grandparents but mostly my Mom. I missed that time with her. Something she did or we did every year without fail. Now my Mom has been gone for such a long time - 24 years. It doesn't seem possible. I miss her. I am thankful to have been able to go there again. I just wish it had been with my Mom.