I hitched a ride to Idaho Falls with Kevin- who was traveling on business- so I could visit Grandpa Allred. We stopped in Chubbuck to pick up Aunt Karen, visited briefly with Aunts Nyla and Janice, along with Sherri, and then spent the afternoon at Grandpa's nursing home. I hooked my camera up to his television and showed him photos of the kids at the beach. He seemed to enjoy the pics, but kept worrying that the beach looked dangerous for children. I thought it ironic that the dangers my children face are not rocks and waves. The isolation of the beach and separation we feel there from the pressures of life make us feel quite safe- it is a respite from worry.

Grandpa seems to be weakening and losing some mobility. Although he knew me, he wasn't entirely clear on time and chronology. He talked about missing Grandma, and asked if I had known her. He asked how long she had been gone and said he couldn't believe it had only been 2+ years. He said it felt like at least 15 years. That just broke my heart.

It was good to see him. I caught up on family news from Karen and really enjoyed visiting with her. We had just heard of the safe rescue of a lost Boy Scout on our drive and I was stunned when Karen told us that my cousin Trevar had had that experience as a young teen. I had never heard the story before, and I was amazed.

Kevin has virtually no extended family, which seems bizarre to me. I have always enjoyed mine and wished I were closer to them.