Pumpkin-Zucchini-Ricotta-Sausage-Pasta Sauce

Two nights ago was really sweet. The boys and I walked down to our local farmers market. There was food vendors, live music, and we saw neighbors and friends! I looked and saw this sweet woman, Margaret Currier. We hugged and decided to sit and in the shade, as Colton played at the little park, we listened to live music and chatted. For about an hour and a half we talked about life (and death), living abroad, international travel, music, family, children, friends and cuisine. It was just delightful! She knew my Cope grandparents (and she told me she has the upmost respect for them both ❤️) and my Papa since he was little. She told me my dad would bale hay for them as a teenager in the summertime and beat his chest and say, "Strong as bull!" (Something he's said my entire life. Haha!)

There's something so comforting in sitting and sharing an evening with a woman who knows your family (and those that are now gone) and feeling peace in her presence. Just knowing that she knew my Papa when he was little makes me smile and the relationships she had with my grandparents is a special connection. I truly enjoyed my visit with her and felt closer to my grandparents, just by association.

Grandparents are very dear and I deeply miss all mine and their influence upon my life. I feel so fortunate to have had a deep bond and relationship with all four of my grandparents.

Margaret shared her wisdom (upon my asking) about her thoughts on a successful marriage (she was three or four months shy of being married 65 years when her husband passed away). She said always give each other respect. Simple yet solid.

Seeing and visiting with her was such a pleasure and it truly warmed my heart. The other thing that warmed my heart, was my sweet baby falling asleep on my chest. *SIGH*