Mustache


We got together with some friends at a local park and grilled up some lunch and then just hung out and ate Pete’s birthday cupcakes and relaxed. The weather was perfect for it. The cupcakes were delicious.

Birthday Barley


Today was Pete’s birthday, so I took the day off and we spent our day doing absolutely nothing special. But lots of hanging out with the cats, which was nice. Barley was even willing to act as a cooperative model. More than I can say for Champ, who is so hyper you can barely get a picture of her these days.

The rose is a flower of love

The Fallen Firefighters Memorial, which is just behind the State House, has a beautiful fountain with the Firefighters Prayer carved on it. This single white rose was sitting atop the fountain when I was there at lunch.

When I’m called to duty, wherever flames may rage
give me strength to save a life, whatever be its age

Help me to embrace a little child before it is too late
or save an older person from the horror of that fate

Enable me to be alert to hear the weakest shout
and quickly and efficiently to put the fire out

I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me
to guard my neighbor and protect his property

And if according to my destiny, I must the earth depart,
please bless with your protecting hand those closest to my heart

Flare


I like all the shiney, modern, reflecty buildings downtown. You’ve seen this building before here and here. Beautiful weather today – cool enough to not break a sweat walking around, but warm enough to not need more than a denim jacket (if a jacket at all).

Not that I ever questioned it…

…but after reading this I thought “My parents are some very successful people!” I think it’s safe to say that all four of their grown up kids like spending time with them.

Strangely enough, I got this quote with my morning chai (love that Starbucks brought back TWISI cups!) and the daily quote I get emailed was also about success:

Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

— Maya Angelou

I like them both. I guess if you don’t have grown kids (or any kids at all) you measure by the second quote, and if you do have grown up kids you measure by the first one? Or you can just pick your favorite and stick with it.