Saturday October 15, 2016



I am writing this morning from the courtyard of the Linden Row Inn in Richmond, VA. The hotel is actually comprised of 7 row houses built in the mid-1800's. Today, our nephew Brendan is marrying Hannah here in her hometown, and the O'Haras are represented well!

We spent the morning walking around Richmond, from the statehouse to the VCU campus and through the monuments of American Revolution and Civil War figures. A walk through these old streets reminds us that there are amazing places to see in this country.and that we have an amazing history. Despite what you hear on the news these days, America is already great...

The election coverage this week has been maddening and depressing. As a woman, raising a daughter, this is especially so. I am enjoying this little weekend getaway not only from Minnesota, but from the 24 hour news cycle...

Erin isn't with us, and she's suffering from some FOMO... that's Fear of Missing Out for you old people... Erin's JV volleyball team is in a two day tournament this weekend and she didn't want to leave her team hanging. She is choosing her commitment to team over fun with the cousins. Sometimes, you just can't do it all.

While Erin doesn't need taking care of, our needy pets do, so Papa Harkins is holding down the fort on Willow Lane. We're lucky to have him back as a Minnesota resident to help us out. Papa reports that Sylvie has decided she likes to snuggle with him.

So, today will be a day of family fun. A celebration of friendship and love. The way the world should be...