It's been a "week" that's for sure -

First off, my assistant at work is having "back problems" - so far, she's been to her Nurse Practitioner 2 or 3 times, a chiropractor a couple of times - unfortunately disasterous - and then there were the three trips to the ER - to top it all off - she's only worked about 1/2 time in the past 10 days and word on the street is that she won't be coming back for another week!! Eeek - we are so, so very far behind.

Secondly, The Shepherd and I had planned for a month or so to go to Yakima (in eastern Washington) this past weekend for the one year anniversary memorial service for my Brother in Law. In the Native American culture of the Yakima Indians, the family of the deceased gives a sort of mini "Potlatch" where the family gives a feast for the guests, proceeded by singing, stories, and a "give -away" of items to the guests - some items which had belonged to the person who passed away, some items which were purchased new. It was really wonderful to hear the stories that his friends told - a very nice service.

We received a ceremonial canoe paddle and a beautiful fleece blanket (ironically the pattern on the blanket was by an acquaintance of ours, Bellingham artist Jodi Bergsma).

It was just an "overnight" trip (about 5 hours driving each way) - although we had time to stop in Monroe and take some more fleeces to our friend and Washington Wool dot Net member, Gretchen Wilson, and our house sitter worked out well - she had a good time and even Sinda slept with her on the bed at night.

And these beautiful pears came from my sister's in-laws orchard. Yes, they are as sweet and juicy as they look.