What memories do you have from your vacays? What sticks in your mind? Is it strictly the memories, a tiny token to remind you of the excursion, photos on your phone, or maybe a bigger item that you could only get from the location?
On my trip to Fort Worth, I would say I got all these – and more.
BABY
Memories … you bet. Seeing the baby for the first time. Nothing will ever remove or replace that embedded memory. Life is precious. Now, I also realize that my son’s life has changed so much more than mine – two kids in diapers, sleep deprivation, expenses, phobias, too much media, and purchases of so many toys … so many toys.
But me? I got a new grandson … Named David Asher, or Dash.
Another memory … I won the grandparent contest two out of three times. So I am the grandparent champion. First … When we first arrived at the house in Texas, Lisa entered the house first (the wonderful gentleman I am opened the door for her.) And then we saw our grandson Sammy. Sammy realized who we were and ran to us. But he ran right past his grandmother into the arms of … ME!!! Wohoo!
Second … I got to suggest the nickname for the newest grandchild. Dash. David Asher … D Ash … Dash. They hadn’t thought of that twist and they liked it. Homerun number 2.
But you can’t hit a homer every time. Third … at the birthing center, they handed Dash to Lisa first. I didn’t even get a chance to hold Dash until the next day. And I am out.
But two out of three ain’t bad – I’ll take the win! Maybe she will get me a trophy! Maybe not.
BOOTS
You want boots – no better place to get them than Texas. And I have been eyeing the Tecovas brand. And 10 minutes from their home is a Tecovas store. I was looking for black bisons but opted for black calfskin instead.
I had some black lambskin boots, a nice soft pair. Softest I have ever had, but the heel came undone recently and it can’t be fixed – again. I have never owned any Tecovas. Their story (from Mexico) and their reviews (tremendous) and their customer service (best I’ve ever had, patient, knowledgable, caring) put this brand over the edge.
Don’t get so deep into “doing” that you miss “being with.”
– Me
What are your favorite boots? if you are not a boot person, what style and brand are your go to footwear. I love Danner for my urban hiking wear, Merrells for the trails, Rockport TechSneakers, and my various Converse Chuck Taylors. What do you slip over your toessies?
Do I miss Texas? I miss the shops and the restaurants, but not the traffic or lack of trees. Take me home country roads … Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River.
Speaking of restaurants, this is the third area from my trip …
BAKING
Yes, had to have Cafe Brazil, 7 Mile, and Black Bear Diner. Great meals. But we also had cookies from Cookie Society. This place sounds so secretive … the Cookie Society. The flavors rotate. The taste are great. I mean – the Cookie SOCIETY. Not a kitchen, not a cafe, not a desserterie. But a SOCIETY – filled with membership and privileges.
I selected a plethora – glazed oatmeal, chocolate cupcake, banana pudding, Rice Krispie cookie, and my fav – pop tart cookie. wohoo.
Sammy loved it too. He even pilfered his father’s cookie while grandma gave a sweet, “Don’t do that” with a smile. No real threat from her, ever.
So, what’s the point of all this? Vacations and trips bring memories. Photos help, trinkets and memorabilia help. Experiences are great. But don’t miss the opportunities to spend time with family and loved ones. Don’t get so deep into “doing” that you miss “being with.”
Share a cookie too.
Muddy Shoes by Todd 
Leave a comment