One of my favorite television shows of all time is Friday Night Lights.  No – it IS my favorite show of all time.  Coach Eric Taylor always had a way with words and one of the phrases that was used continually throughout the show was “Clear Eyes, Full Heart, Can’t Lose” and the team recited that at least once in every episode.

This past weekend I must admit that I had the teary eyes part of that phrase instead of the clear eyes.  Before you get too concerned about me let me explain.  Chris and I spent the weekend in Raleigh enjoying some long overdue family time.  We met at our youngest son Aaron’s townhouse and had an incredible weekend.  I picked up our oldest son Micah and his girlfriend, Wendy and their new puppy Penny at the airport on Friday morning.  Penny did great on her first flight.  Add to the mix Aaron’s girlfriend Erin and kitty Diego and we had a full house for the weekend but it was wonderful.  Am I using that word too much?  Probably but it describes the time perfectly.

Driving back home to Brevard on Tuesday morning I got a bit misty eyed because it had been such a great weekend.  For one weekend we all came together as a family and just enjoyed each other.  Those times are too few these days because of work commitments and geographic constraints so I was determined to make the most of it and I did.  But the teary eyes came on Tuesday when I drove home knowing it would be awhile before the 6 of us were all together again.

It seems that the world has gone a little nuts these days and without getting political let’s just say I am concerned about where our country is headed.  My beloved United Methodist Church is in the throes of a huge debate at General Conference that will determine the future of many in the church. Add to these concerns the fact that my mind is often on my sweet brother in law Carlton who is rapidly declining and I could go down the sadness rabbit hole pretty quickly.  That is why this past weekend was so important.  For one weekend I put it all aside, thought about none of it and allowed myself to just be in the moment.  It worked.

I decided today was the right day to share some pictures that just are happy pictures.  There is too much “heavy” in newsfeeds today so for one minute just enjoy some fun pictures.  Because who can resist animals?  Yes – Grandma may have spoiled them a bit as well.  Because that is what grand kitties and grand puppies need.

Diego pre-Penny

Penny’s first ride in North Carolina.

Penny took a lot of Diego’s toys.

Look at that cute behind. 🙂

Penny meets Diego

Diego had enough of Penny and took to higher ground.

Wendy, Micah and Penny

Penny watching the Roomba

I caught Aaron and Erin loving on Penny. Diego is MIA.

Diego post Penny visit.

Penny selfie

Diego selfie

Now see?  Don’t you feel better after looking at those pictures?  I know I do.  Have a great day.