Poor Heather.

I'm sure she was more than a little apprehensive when Candace called to say we were taking her shopping. The 'we' probably caught her off guard but she was all good natured smiles when we picked her up on the way to the mall. I know the idea of shopping with my future mother in law, my future step mother in law and my future grandmother would have made me a bundle of nerves but I get the feeling Heather is a whole lot more level headed than I've ever been.

The more time I spend with her, the more I'm beginning to understand what Tristan loves about her. She's bubbly and energetic, with a sly sense of humor. And she's definitely self assured. She's got enough poise and confidence to put me to shame.

Candace, Heather, Maggie and I spent a couple hours at the mall and by the time we decided it was time to head back to the ranch, we had more than a few bags between us. Tristan better not mind all the luggage he's going to have to bring on his honeymoon but I can guarantee there are some surprises he's going to enjoy.

We've decided I'll take the kids and go down to Texas to help Candace with any last minute preparations for the wedding. Chris would love to go too but he has a show and then an appearance at Lowes Motor Speedway before the wedding. He's taking Connor with him to the NASCAR race, and Joe and Pam as well. They're the big race fans and I don't mind missing out. Its fun to watch on TV (sometimes) but I've got no urge to actually meet any of the drivers. (okay okay, Martin Truex is a cutie, I admit, but with Chris trailing around with me, I don't think it would be good to spend some time drooling over sexy race car man).

Lily, Bella and I bummed a ride with Kent down to Abilene while Conn stayed home with his Dad and Pam. They'll meet Chris in Charlotte on Saturday and then join us in Abilene in time for the wedding on Sunday.

There was quite the welcoming committee at the airport with Steve, Candace and Luke waiting for us. Luke is getting big! He's walking and is quite the talker. I looked from him to Bella and can't wait for her to get to that stage. Of course Candace told me I'm nuts, its a whole lot easier to corral Bella than it is Luke. Steve apologized for Brandy's absence but after school she's got Drama club and soccer practice. Sounds like someone is quite the little Miss Popularity - bet Chris would take credit and say she's just a 'chip off the old block'.

The ranch is just the same as I remember it and Candace had the guest cottage all ready for us. She picked up a portable crib for Bella and I swear the minute we set foot inside, Lily was begging to go back out and see all the horses. Steve was more than happy to oblige her and that gave Candace and I a chance to sit down and catch up.

Hard to believe we were once at odds over a certain dark haired man. But I'm very very glad we found a way to become friends.