Happy 10/31

If you think this post features granddaughters happy about all their candy, think again. Happy is the name of their dwarf hamster, and she is a happy girl. She's been a member if the household for a year and a half and has gradually lost her fear of humans, especially because we feed her. Tonight I put some food in her bowl, and we hung out for a bit, she in her cage and I behind my camera.

Halloween 10/31

Costumes chosen by the granddaughters for tonight's activities are hotdog and nerdy vampire. Hotdog has a mustard yellow pony tail and a ketchup red one. Vampire's glasses make her difficult to recognize.

The first photo shows scary/silly faces, others the anticipation of much candy. They circle around the cul-de-sac before leaving to spend the evening with friends. Then they finish by ringing their own doorbell to trick or treat us grandparents. All treats, of course!

Happy Halloween! 10/31

Candy day has officially arrived, and granddaughters dress for schools according to the guidelines. Kat assumes the persona of a veterinarian, the topic she chose for a job study and recently explored in a class assignment; her bunny patient tags along. Nat shows the spirit of the holiday but cannot wear an actual costume.

Before they leave, Dad helps with hair and sisters part with hugs. Tonight the family will attend a party and collect more treats.

Last night the girls ridiculed candy bars that claim to be fun size. They said fun size should not be smaller than regular size but gigantic, even too big to carry. Now that would be real fun size!

School Lunch 10/30 Wed.

Today younger granddaughter has invited us to have lunch with her at school. And since "gross" chicken patties are on the menu, "Please bring something yummy from Subway."

The school lobby announces a successful read-athon in progress, a visible commitment to this ambitious project.

We arrive at the cafeteria early with her favorite sandwich, chips, and Coke. After a quick stop at her locker, she leads us to a table where her friends join us. The other grade eating at this time is kindergarten, students so much smaller and bouncier than third graders. Soon lunch period ends, but student energy continues.

At the end of the school day, we return to pick her up. No one can miss the big sign in the gym that reminds everyone that there will be no school Friday. Nice coincidence for the day after Halloween?

She checks her locker for papers and clothing items, hastily scans her backpack, and efficiently carries her jacket on her head. Here is a girl that has this school thing under control.

At home waits a new bag of Cheetos for sisters to share when older one arrives, one of their favorite snacks and an indulgence we traditionally provide when we visit. After all, we're the grandparents!

Outside the Briscoe 10/26 Saturday

The Briscoe Western Art Museum had its Grand Opening to the public October 25-26 with the help of volunteers galore. On a side street closed for the occasion, chuck wagon hands pass out sourdough biscuits filled with barbecued brisket. Little tykes get encouraging lessons to try their roping skills. Pretty young ladies in frilly dresses mount their horses and pose while waiting to perform. A vaquero demonstrates flamboyant tricks to the crowd that also admires his horse's stoic demeanor. My camera spots a father-son duo dressed to celebrate their culture.

In the courtyard of the sculpture garden, seasoned dancers watch younger versions of themselves until time to take partners and dance the traditional steps. All the while, music plays and keeps the appreciative audience mindful of another time and place.

Just before entering the building, we pause to watch a weaver commanding her loom to create the intricate design she intends. Also, I can't help but notice the gorgeous turquoise jewelry she wears.

School Day 10/30 Wednesday

One more day until Halloween! Girls dress for school and rainy weather. Nat tells us about her classes and also the select choir that meets this morning before school. Kat warns us that after hugging her we will have sparkles on our shirts. I love returning to the rhythm of this beloved family.