March 6, 2010. Canyon Lake. The Lake House.

I am always pleased when returning to the lake house. It is odd how quickly your mind forgets the beauty and charm of a place when you are away, but on returning, everything you did to make the home comfortable and elegant becomes obvious. At first blush, all looks wonderful, as I sat on the lower deck in the shade and enjoyed the lake view, then on closer inspection, I get critical and find fault. But mostly I just enjoy the lake house and again, am pleased that we bought and furnished the place to be comfortable but not fancy. It is a perfect family home, which is a good thing, because beginning in mid June, the San Antonio Family moves out to the lake, while David commutes to work. This is a nice place and we are pleased with our work.

Mornings in San Antonio I drive car pool with Suzanne, first to drop off Sarah at TMI, an Episcopal Junior and Senior High School, then Abigail at St. Thomas, an Episcopal Elementary School. Samantha and Allison are driven by David to St George's Elementary, the school the twins transferred to this fall in order to be in different classes. Suzanne has three different schools to attend to, and David helps out in the morning. I chatter away with the two older girls in the car, even though they probably would prefer to be quiet. After breakfast, Ken and I bought a new Mac for the lake, as our old computer died in the fall. We will use it here at the lake, then take it with us as we drive 281 in the Fall.

While waiting in the car to leave, I noted that Sarah has brought the keys out to the car, unlocked the doors and placed the keys in the ignition, all ready for the ride. When a friend calls for a number, Sarah looks up the number on the phone, while Abigail writes the number down, so Suzanne can relay the number to the friend. These children are very helpful and competent both at home and in the car. Sarah plays on the Middle School Softball team and plays two games a week. As the team is comprised of six, seven and eighth grade girls, Sarah does not start, but she always plays. Yesterday, it was Abigail that hit the ball over the fence time after time, so next year it will be interesting at school as Abigail has been accepted into TMI for the Fall. Next year will be easier for Suzanne with only two schools.

Our days in Texas have great variety. We will be here this week at the Lake, then back to San Antonio for the weekend, followed to a trip to the ranch next week. The Muckleroys have already called us to see when we expect to come to the ranch. We are busy.