20 Months and the Mountains

Time is passing too quickly, and I probably keep putting off an update from my trip because it's hard to put all my feelings into words. 

It was wonderful being able to spend a week with Eric and J! I was grateful that I could be there and be helpful...not just in the way and annoying. But, let's be honest, I'm Eric's littlest sister; of course, I was annoying (and bossy). Yet, Eric's disease continues to progress. As Emily said, this disease is mean and slowly stripping Eric of many physical abilities. Texting, reading, video chats, and long conversations with friends continue to prove challenging even on his best days. However, Eric is still hilarious, generous, and incredibly kind. 

I had the great privilege of meeting four of Eric's amazing colleagues and friends while in town. These people are pretty awesome in their own right, but their willingness to show up for Eric and J also reminds me of the caliber of people with whom Eric surrounds himself. Eric and all of us greatly appreciate your coffee chats, dog walking, burrito making, adventure-telling, and all-around amazingness! 

With very little fanfare, we all acknowledged the passing of the 20-month mark. Instead, Eric and I took a long drive into the mountains. What started as a slightly snowy drive to see the reservoirs in town and marvel at the ice fishermen turned into two quiet and beautiful hours driving in the mountains. I must admit that snowy mountain driving isn't my strong suit, but it was wonderful to follow the tracks right down the middle of some beautiful mountain roads stopping for deer, a turkey, and several cattle guards. We drove until there were literally no more tracks to follow. That's when this city girl said it was time to turn around. But, before we could make it home, Eric and I both accomplished a much need nature pee, laughing at ourselves for how ridiculous we would look should anyone stumble upon us. 

The rest of our week was filled with cooking, baking, arts and crafts, storytelling, and lots of Christmas decorating. (If anyone knows how to store a fully decorated tree, we're open to suggestions) 

So now, it's Doug's turn to invade Eric's house. There may be less cooking and more home repairs this week, but we all have our strengths.