Saturday and Buddhism

     Today I got together with the whole family, except for oldest brother and family, who are in Nebraska.  We had a good time and I was able to depart after 4 and a half hours.  I love to see my family, but in little installments, not the big, noisey, confusing gaggle that joins together on such holidays. I did, however, get some great pics. of my Mom, who was in very good spirits, and, even though she couldn't remember everyones name, she knew they were family and that was enough!      My Dad did a great job having the farm house ready.  They used to be in Mexico or Florida the day after Christmas, but Dad sold those places since Mom's alzhiemers set in.  My oldest sister helped him a lot too, arriving early and putting her culunary degree to some use.  We started the festivities at 1pm., but told my baby brother it was at 12pm so he would arrive on time and sure enough, at 1pm he came rolling down the lane with his family.  The food was hot and ready when they hit the door.      I took some very good, and not so good photos of everyone. The kids all had a great time and we viewed the slide show of Mom and Dad's 50th wedding anniversary.  It was great to see.  I had the task of procuring the hall, putting the announcement in the paper and buying and preparing the food.  My oldest sister made the cake (Breath taking) and my younger sister chipped in a sizeable amount of money.  I still ended up spending more then all of them combined, but it was worth it!  (Note: I moved my entire household, took them on a 4 day vacation and bought/prepared and set up the food and hall in a 8 day period...I was so glad when it was all over!).      It was with mixed feelings when the last plate was washed and put away, the last lid put on whatever food container was brought, the last coat was  pulled off of the bed, that I left.  I left with the knowledge that my return next year would find me in the same location, but with older children, the possible absence of my Mother and, like another straw placed on a camels back, one year closer to the fact that, the day would come where we wouldn't be there with each other to share a meal, listen to the excitement of the kids opening presents, sitting beside my Dad laughing, or even seeing the distance grow longer in my Mother's eyes.      I will, forever, hold dear these memories, taking them where ever I go...My priceless treasure to have and hold, to guard and share, to carry me through the tough times and to give me peace when I make my final journey...Though I'm not sure where to...I'm studying Buddhism right now. Joshuattee.