I had a most marvelous time this weekend - and I have pictures to prove it - but I'm too tired to post them right now.

Anyway - the weekend began with two cool things.

On Friday, I participated in the Bowlie forum's "Life of Bowlie" thingy where you take pictures of what you did that day and post them. Nothing of earthshattering importance - but I felt a little bit more connected to the Bowlie kids that hang around there - who are wonderful and brilliant and make me happy.

Then we got the most pleasant surprise when the entire Harmon clan showed up after Miss Stephanie's wedding. Clare serenaded us on ukelele, piano, and percussion. I believe she has a great career ahead of her as a performance artist (kinda like Laurie Anderson, but way more beautiful)(sorry Laurie!) and we thorough enjoyed hanging out with Clare and Greg and Dublingirl herself!.

We got up well before any rational human beings get out of bed on Saturday and headed south to visit with Melody, Addie, various spouses, cats, and offspring.

We don't get to see each other often, so anytime there is a gathering is pretty special. The only one missing was Miss Lexy - but hopefully we'll see her soon.

We ate much fine food (Melody and Rich have raised the gourmet bar yet again and I pity the next folks who host a gathering because the cheese tray alone is the stuff of legend and the Brunswick Stew will not be denied.)

Melody and Rich had to work on Sunday so we headed north to the lake house where we were graced with several hours of Miss Mae - who is also a wunderkind (like Clare) and who entertained us as only two year olds can. We finally made it home by midnight. But it was sooo worth it.

I am so blessed in having all the friends I have - and Jim has the same depth of friends who reach back in time as far as mine. The lovely thing is that we no longer have to classify them as 'his friends' or 'her friends.' Whether they are nearby, virtual, or far away - whether I've seen them recently or whether it's been years - they're all the best present anyone could ever wish for.

Sigh.