Mid-August arrived with its own kind of rhythm. Quiet observations, unexpected visitors, and a few moments that felt almost cinematic. From a mushroom in disguise to a bird that wouldn’t budge, the days unfolded with a mix of wonder, chaos, and tenderness.
August 11
A completely different kind of mushroom—one I would’ve missed entirely, since at first glance it looked just like a fall-colored leaf. It was Alex who spotted it and pointed it out to me.
August 12
That day, when I got to1 my car in the parking deck at work and spotted this little guy just staring at me, completely unfazed. I talked to him. Nothing. Started the car. Still nothing. I wasn’t sure what to do. Finally, I tapped the inside of the window right where he was perched, and then off he flew! I couldn’t help but wonder… was that some kind of sign?
Alex moved out on August 14th—two days later than planned, thanks to some last-minute cleaning and painting delays at his new place. No big deal… until I got word that same day that my in-laws from Texas were arriving in less than 24 hours. And guess where they were staying? Yep, the very room Alex had just vacated after weeks of occupancy. It felt like a sitcom setup: one kid out, in-laws inbound, and me caught in the middle wondering if I should laugh, cry, or just start fluffing pillows.
August 15
So yep, Friday at lunchtime, my in-laws rolled in, and thankfully, their room was guest-ready. Small miracle, considering the whirlwind of the previous 24 hours!
The main reason for their visit was to finally meet their great-granddaughter, something they hadn’t had the chance to do until now.
August 16
We spent the day with family and I got tons of LA time which was the best!
Drew was hard at work making the roux for the gumbo for Sunday’s lunch, which was going to be a celebration
August 17
Here’s everyone at lunch on Sunday.
August 23
In the process of clearing off our back deck.
August 24
Oh to be able to be so relaxed!
These two week had the gumbo simmering, and the baby was finally in the arms of her great-grandparents. And me? I was somewhere in the middle of it all, grateful for the mess, the magic, and the moments that made it feel like home.
