Limbo

Limbo: n. an uncertain period of awaiting a decision or resolution; an intermediate state or condition.

Mr. Scottie Dog and I are in limbo.  Not really here nor there, currently in CA but thinking we are in MN. Dreaming we are in MN.  After a quick turn-around of less than 20 days in December we took a huge load of household goods (think dishes, Brenda's fabric collection, knick-knacks, family heirlooms, an antique pump organ,  lamps, kitchen supplies, a wood stove and all that stuff you use on a regular basis)...They were first packed in cardboard boxes, wrapped in plastic, placed into wooden packing crates 4' x 4' x 8' or 8' x 4' x 8' high.  These crates were then bolted together and then bolted onto a trailer.  The trailer was covered with thick plastic tarps and cinched together. 

 We knew that driving in late December might take a bit longer but somehow our 3 day trip turned into 6 days.  We didn't actually arrive in time for Christmas morning, but did make it about 9 pm Christmas Day.  We experienced snow storms, ice storms, black ice (it's not much fun  going 65 mph BACKWARDS and SIDEWAYS down the highway and landing in a snow-filled ditch facing the WRONG way!).  Thankfully not a scratch on us, our truck or our trailer!  And did you know that the only places in the Midwest open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day are hotels and gas stations. Nary a restaurant, fast-food joint or grocery store was open!  We made do with pretzels, bottled water and stale, white bread sandwiches from the few gas stations open.

 But we made it!  Snow on Dec. 26, the flurry of children opening presents, squeals and Christmas dinner.  The entire family together.

 Don't we look great?  We got to stay for three weeks.  Then back across the country to Portland, OR.  My niece was getting married.  It was a fairy-tale wedding at the Historic Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood.  The day was sunny and beautiful.  We were so blessed to witness the marriage of these two...so in love, such a wonderful couple. 

 Kim and Corey, soul mates.

 So now we're back in CA.  Working on the house.  I'm still packing, sorting and throwing away.  While in MN it's -10 and snow on the ground, the daffodils are blooming here. Sun shiny days in the high 60's.  Even the camellias are blooming.  

Limbo...it's where we are.  Trying to make the most of our friendships here in CA, yearning to know what all is going on in MN.  Mr. Scottie Dog and I.  Side by side.  Anxious and yet satisfied with each day.  Limbo.