I'm back! It feels like a long time since I sat down to write a post but here I am once again with updates, holiday photos and promises of things to come.
As many of you know (and so graciously sent kind words of condolence--thank you), my Grandma B passed away on November 19th. Papi Chulo and I returned to my parent's home along with the girls for her funeral services. Many, many people came out to pay their last respects and to support my family. I was impressed by and grateful for the community that surrounds my parents. They have lived in the same home for 34 years and their roots run deep. I had been asked to give the eulogy at the funeral service and spent the days prior collecting stories and sentiment from those who loved my grandma. When the time came to give the eulogy, I found myself holding Miss E who I had promised would soon get mama's milk. My options were to hand her off to Papi Chulo and make everyone endure the screaming that would no doubt ensue or take her up to the podium with me. Up she went. And with only a few interruptions from her (mostly the pumping hand begging for milk), I spoke of my grandmother's sense of delight and humor in the world. I found it poignant to be standing there speaking of my grandmother while holding my baby. And, I must say, I was grateful for the grounding force that Miss E granted to me. When one is called on to mother, one is compelled to hold it together.
Oh, I do fear that there is too much to be said. So here's the short and sweet version: Papi Chulo returned to DC after the funeral services. I have stayed in Chicago with the girls and will be here for another week. We had a fabulous feast for Thanksgiving with 19 people gathering round the tables. Leftovers are finally gone and so are my siblings. Funky B has been the queen of imaginary play and Miss E has discovered the pantry where great fun can be had restacking the shelves. I have visited with dear friends, listened to bad ZZ Top wanna-bes, finished reading "Loving Frank" (not high on my recommend list but is the current read for my book club), bought yarn, and started on some Christmas bags (yes, there will be projects to share in the coming weeks).
And since you've been so patient, waiting for me to return and now plugging along through my post, here are some Thanksgiving Day photos. First, Miss E helping to prepare food in the morning.
A few hours later, we had little girls all dressed up fancy and sweet.
I do hope that you all enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving with loved ones. That it was full of good food, laughter, and gratitude.