I plan on spreading happiness this month. May In the DMV brings the start of erratic weather, which leaves outdoor parties, events such as our local embassy tours, and road trips a little bit iffy with the chance of a downpour being cold or being a frizzy mess from the humidity with a runny nose and itch eyes from all the pollen. Hubby and I hosted a Cinco de Mayo garage party to kick off the beginning of the nice weather in our area. We like to foster a sense of community in our neighborhood by inviting our entire block plus a bit more. We find it easier to have a theme when we are hosting to keep food and drink a little bit more focused.   Volunteering brings me happiness by sharing joy and smiles. I like to support the Smithsonian for the distribution of of knowledge and the U.S.O to bring joy and distraction to the troops.  Donate to the USO · United Service Organizations    Events and upcoming exhibits Smithsonian. Current Exhibitions | Smithsonian Institution (si.edu)   Hubby and I plan on wandering about a bit after Mother’s Day along the Lincoln Highway in western Pennsylvania.  This route is lovely; we have traveled on it before.  There are beautiful, covered bridges Covered Bridges in Bedford, County PA - Bedford County Visitors Bureau (visitbedfordcounty.com)and mountain scenery.  Hubby and I have found a retro gem to stay at Lincoln Motor Court, which is super cute.   Out and About around DMV: May is the start of nice weather in our area, so outside events happen. One of my favorites is Around the World Embassy Tours Passport DC | Events DC. The first two weeks are my favorite, with the non-EU Embassy opening up and the second weekend the EU Embassy opening up. There is also the fun of food and floral-heavy outdoor events happening. I personally am looking forward to seeing the Bonnard exhibit at the Phillips collection. I have been trying to get over to the Phillips collection for the last two months, taking advantage of the third Thursday program, which has the museum staying open late. Bonnard is considered a modern artist of the post-impressionist period and a French artist; we hope to walk down the street and enjoy the opportunity to make a special French-themed date night French, Fun, and Friendly, Since 2000 (bistrotducoin.com)

When you let a new dog into your life after many years, it's definitely an adjustment, letting go of your buddy and letting a new furry friend into your life to fill the role of confidante. Then, you bring home an adorable bundle of fur home from the wonderful local rescue. I brought my home from in my area, Lost Dog Rescue. After getting our darling Leo home, of course, we have had the puppy adjustments and training on his and our part. Adjusting to Living with a Dog requires training on both of your parts to live together in harmony. Finding harmony together is an evolving process.

My family's Lab, Libby, passed away from a series of strokes and passed while hubby and I were on our Canadian Cruise. Being home without her right next to me and under my feet is quite an adjustment. I realized Libby was why I was outside walking, being active, and socializing with the neighbors. I have also learned that talking to Libby during the day was a huge stress relief and comfort. We are thinking about getting a new dog to us. Looking into adoption groups and seeing their methods in vetting new homes for their charges. Figuring out what qualities we are looking for in a dog that will be with hubby and me in our Empty Nester stage of life.