The spot

Today we took Luna's ashes out to Little Grassy to give her a final resting spot. She was happiest there with our friends, her dog friends and the freedom to chase ducks (!), swim in circles around me when I would cross the lake, shark her buddies for a tennis ball or frisbee, scrounge some food from a picnic or roll in the dirt until she looked like a chocolate lab. Lake days are precious memories that I am thankful for and they are a memory of my first days getting to know Steve which makes 'the spot' all the more precious. As we drove out, I was sad again at the loss of Luna, but as soon as we let her go, we all knew it was the right thing to do.

It was a stunningly beautiful day (for any month, let alone December) and we enjoyed walking the short trail to the lake access. This spot is not fancy at all and when I first took Steve there, I think he thought I was nuts when we parked and had to walk through tall grass to the clearing. Worth it!  For the record, my being a little nuts is one reason he married me.

 The winter walk is much clearer and easier and we had a good time finding 'trophies', otherwise known as sticks to walk with and looking for clues.

 Star, of course, had a blast being with us for this adventure. She hasn't been to this swim spot much, but she soaked up the opportunity to swim and run wild for the hour we were there!

 I love this picture of Luke's sweet face against the pretty scenery.

It isn't fancy, but it is special! Throw down some beach towels, enjoy a cold beverage and dive into the water. Good stuff! Then have a dog dive in after you, scratch you for a ball, follow you out and shake off on you. Still good stuff!

 Love the devilish look in his eyes :)

 I am coming for you, Mommy!

 Gotcha...

 We played by the fire pit and pretended to cook rice and beans. Then Luke handed me some "red jelly beans' for dessert. I like the way he thinks! Daddy got some green ones. I never knew you could cook jelly beans over a fire pit!

 Explaining our snack...

 Happy chef!

 Wondering how he can get this stick back in the car? Really, he asked to take it home!

 Focused on trying to get the stick to budge...

 Luke had the camera. He is learning pretty well to center his subjects...

 I just cropped this one to make us closer, but he nailed this one. We were centered and pretty much in focus! He took it and said - "I did it!"

 One more each of Daddy - dang, he is good looking!

 and mommy...I got low to help get myself in the shot ;)

Heading out in trusted arms. It was a wonderful visit to Grassy. I was so grateful to go with Steve, Luke and Star, for the awesome weather, to watch Luke's comfort in nature and for the fun that we had along the way.