It’s Still Need To Do Day, which is funny because it seems like every day of the year is that for me. Today, however, we had a somewhat leisurely morning at home before hitting the road for the 6+ hour drive to Rochester. Driving was all we needed to do. The day started gray and mild at home, going to sunny and warmish in Camp Hill, PA, where we stopped for lunch, and then turning cold and gray by the time we hit northern PA and into NY. Arrived later in the afternoon around dusk under misting skies. Hubby went for a run in the misty dark while I went for a walk along the Erie Canal in the misty dark. There’s a little brew pub by the canal with outdoor seating around gas fire pits, and Christmas lights still sparkle on the bridges. Talked to Mamacita to let her know we were in town and that we’d see her tomorrow. Looking forward to hugging her again and wishing I could just spend the whole time with her back in her cottage like in the days when she didn’t need assisted care. The picture that makes up my computer’s wallpaper is one Mamacita took of me posing next to a giant purpley-pink hibiscus blossom by the front porch of that cottage. Dad is photo bombing in the background, a big smile on his face as he sits on his chair on the front porch. I keep that picture as my background because it’s the last picture taken of Dad and me; he died two weeks later. The picture reminds me of happy summer days visiting my parents at Westminster Village, hanging out—free of the busyness of home—and  enjoying their company.

Two notable people recently passed on this week: E.O. Wilson, incredible biologist, and Desmond Tutu, incredible humanitarian. I had a great respect for both. Not to be maudlin, but I wonder whom I’ll go out with.