Last Moments

Older Daughter and I have taken our turns being weepy; last night it was her who was full of angst, and tonight it's me, although I hide it well. My mostly cheerful exterior is sometimes the shell I use to keep my emotions from overwhelming me. (and others) Realistically, I need to head home where responsibilities with my mom and my younger daughter await. I also miss my cat and my life, plus it'll be great to see John again after 2 1/2 weeks. However, I dread my full day of travel tomorrow with its many stressful moving pieces. And leaving this sweet little boy is SO heart breaking, especially when I'm not sure when I'll see him again. Fortunately, I'll carry away wonderful memories of this Halloween, as well as our many lovely small moments together. 

This morning we decided to head off to this nearby zoo which is located at Millbrook School, and was small and uncrowded, yet full of interesting animals. The visit was low key and fun for all of us, including Little Guy--who permitted us to dress him in a sheep outfit. Although we were still disappointed about his rejection of the adorable monkey costume Older Daughter had planned for him, we are learning that he is a small human with definite likes and dislikes of his own. We will respect that. 

Older Daughter has always been entranced by lemurs; going to Madagascar for their honeymoon intensified that fascination. :) Grandson appears to be riveted by them too. He loved watching them jump!

They do have awesome tails, but that look terrifies me. I wouldn't want to get too close to them. In Madagascar, the kids had them climbing all over them, and Son-in-Law had one on his head. No, thanks. 

I was more a fan of the red pandas whose tails are just as incredible. Could I take this one home with me, please? ;)

Emus (and ostriches) seem like proof that birds are descended from dinosaurs. They are so weird prehistoric looking. 

Our timing was perfect to see this bobcat get fed. Her dinner consisted of dead mice. Blech, gross. She jumped up on the fence several times, growled, and acted like any kitty would. It was entertaining to watch!

Little Guy wanted "down" and out of the stroller and kept telling us his attempt at his name plus "round" with a circular motion. Although we tried to allow him some running around per his request, the uneven pavement and mud(left over from the Nor'easter) made that too dangerous at times. 

This fall trip has gifted me with the beauty of the colorful leaves. 

It's also given me the joy of sharing Grandson's love of "dig digs," several of which we found in a store parking lot today on our way back from the zoo. His huge eyes and bubbling enthusiasm will stay with me on those long hours of train and plane travel. The memory of his snuggles, kisses and jokes will warm me when I'm feeling sad. As Winnie the Pooh wisely said, "How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard." 

Comments

[Donna W]

We have bobcats on our property. The grandson's wildlife camera pick them up once in awhile. Your grandson will probably remember you next time you meet. I remember when our son and his family were stationed in Texas, I was shocked to see that my granddaughter remembered me when she hadn't seen me since she was 18 months old, and this was a year later.

[DougM]

I liked the little zoo, I guess NYC is full of little surprises like that. Well Margaret, it looks like you really made the most of your visit there, I envy your get up n' go. And I bet you'll be seeing your handsome little guy again soon. :^)

[DrumMajor]

You must find Older Daughter a stuffed lemur for Christmas! Sounds like everyone is healthy, so that's a big blessing. Keep checking that your flights aren't cancelled, and have a Plan B if needed. Stay safe while you travel. Linda in Kansas

[Ally Bean]

Lemurs are cool. Dig digs are cool. I like your Pooh quote. Very true.

[AC]

So glad for you that you had such a wonderful visit. I hope that you arrive home to a good situation.

[Catalyst]

This is a very heartfelt post. You will have many good memories to keep you warm through the winter. And that photo of grandson flanked by his parents is a keeper, for them as well as you. Welcome home!

[Tonya Watkins]

I wanna red panda, too!!! They are just adorable! I'll bet you CAN find a plush stuffed lemur somewhere--Google it. I think it would make a special gift! (And of course a dig-dig for the little guy!)

Hope your trip home has been A-OK. I suspect you'll be Washington-side soon! Welcome back!

[Karen]

Safe travels back home. It looks like you had a wonderful time with your grandson and daughter! Love the zoo pictures. The red panda is so cool!

The path that takes us away, is the same path that brings us back again--that's what I always tell myself when leaving loved ones that live far away...

[Musings]

You're so lucky to have this special time with your daughter and family. Sigh. I can't help but be envious. Have an easy, happy trip home.

[Ed]

Safe journey home. I always start off trips like that full of worry about the connections which gradually fades into exhaustion to just get home as I near the end. Long trips through airports and the associated modes of transportation just take it out of me.

I remember when our girls wanted out of the stroller or arms to walk all the time. We never could be in a hurry for many years after that.

[Marie K]

What a great adventure! Love those leaves, too.