Rather than searching for a destination for spring break, spring break came to us.

One of our grandchildren called out of the blue a few weeks ago and asked–to our astonishment–if she could spend a few days with us during her break. This was a first for us. After I swallowed my astonishment and found my voice I answered, “Of course you can come. But you know, Grandpa and I go to bed at 9:00.”

What followed was four days of fun, which began at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in downtown Kansas City.

Rachel is an art student at the Savannah School of Art and Design so I thought she (me too) would enjoy the impressionist exhibit which included Monet’s Water Lilies.

The museum has a great collection, and we only scratched the surface. We took a break for lunch in the museum’s beautiful Rozzell Court. One of the docents told us the base to the fountain (pictured lower left) was brought from Italy and dates around 400 AD. There’s nothing like entertaining company to get you out and about in your own back yard and remind you of the treasures there.

After a healthy dose of culture, on day two we headed to the movie theater and grabbed a huge popcorn to watch Captain America. Rachel and her siblings have grown up with Marvel characters, and I’ve seen a few of these movies myself, a great escape and all. I’ve always like Harrison Ford, but it was still a stretch for me when he–spoiler alert–morphed into the Incredible Hulk near the climax of the movie.

And a little mall shopping? Yes, please. I found myself in the dubious position of giving my granddaughter advice on buying jeans. Are you kidding me? We hit several stores, and she came away with an acceptable haul.

Spring break was noteworthy because none of our grandchildren have ever lived less than a three hour drive or a plane ride away from us; time together has always been precious. If your grands live away from you, you know what I’m talking about. Our visits usually revolve around birthdays and holidays. This was a hoot and a hint for drop-ins from the rest of the grands as circumstances allow

A quick note about an upcoming podcast with Jim and Bobbi Jean Bell. I’ll be their guest again on “Rendezvous with a Writer” on Thursday, April 24, talking about Lila’s Journey and Marcello’s Promise. More about this later as the date approaches.

And speaking of backyards, look what opened up this week. Oh, I love the reappearance of spring flowers, don’t you? So brave to show up in Kansas when it’s 70 one day and snow showers the next.

There’s so much to look forward to this time of year. New beginnings in all aspects of life. Happy spring to all of you! Until next time . . .