Can't Sleep, Clowns Will Eat Me

I'm deep in the throes of insomnia again :( My brain is full and I can't relax. Everyone else in the house is sound asleep, so I came into my office to look at pictures because that always helps to soothe this beast. This is one of my favorite photos that I always love to look at ...it reminds me of the relative calm of this time last year, when Ginny Grace was just this sleepy little ball that just needed feeding and changing. She didn't need to climb into my lap every five minutes or have me read "Where's Maisy" 30 times in a row. She didn't leave Cheerios lying in the run for me to crush with my Fred Flintstone feet. She didn't stick handfuls of dog-hair into her mouth to remind me that I need to vacuum. Of course, as much as those things wear me out, I know I wouldn't trade them for anything. This is a man's world But it wouldn't be nothing without a woman or a girl There's a really cool celebration about to happen in St.Louis. Some of the gang from Flickr/Blogger are hooking up to welcome home Patrick from his tour of duty in Afghanistan. In a short time this little group of people have become quite special to me. They share their stories and their pictures and have been terribly sweet. When Ange got the idea to send pictures of people toasting Patrick, who couldn't get his beloved Guinness in Afghanistan, it was just a wonderful spark that turned into this massive bonfire of support for a soldier. I took some of those photos and made a little tribute movie... It went over well with the crowd! I'm bummed that I can't be with them to raise a glass in real life to Patrick..to meet these news friends..to share the joy of a safe return to the warm embrace of friends and family. I know that they know that I wish them well, but I'll say it again for the record. Thanks Patrick for your service and sacrifice, and thank you Ange for bringing us all along. The Irish say: Always remember to forget The troubles that passed away. But never forget to remember The blessings that come each day. 'Sláinte chuig na fir, agus go mairfidh na mná go deo.' Health to the men, and may the women live forever! Cheers