I always feel a subtle, looming sense of sadness right when I arrive in the States because I know eventually I'll have to leave again. I usually force this out of my mind and declare, "Fun. Now. No exceptions!" The last few days before I leave, we usually gather and fill our suitcases and recheck our "things to do, people to see, and gifts to buy" checklists. I also try to mentally and emotionally prepare myself as I know I won't be seeing my family and friends for another long while. The emotion builds up, and a few tears are usually shed, but I get through it. Thanks to my two lovelies, the pain of leaving home is somewhat eased. Because home really is wherever they are.
Here are some shots of our last few days in town.
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We went to Forest Lawn in Cypress to pay a visit to the gravesite of my paternal grandmother.
Paloma looks on, wondering what the matriarch was like.
I love this cemetery. The grass is so green and lush, and my grandmother's site has a beautiful view of a mural of "The Ascension".
My grandmother never traveled without a rosary in her pocket. Miss Thing wore some rosaries in honor of the visit (she put them on herself). The Church of Our Fathers in the background.
Paloma's amused by the statue, possibly thinking it was Mary and Jesus ("Jeju").
For our last meal, we had some Wahoo's. So simple, but now on the "must eat while in California" list.
Paloma loved running around the restaurant and looking at the mishmash of stickers.
We had some Golden Spoon too since I had to spend $10 worth from a Groupon I bought.
Now at the airport. "Pane!" ("Plane")
The plane was half full, so we got to the airport early and scored a bassinet for Paloma. Who's traveling first class? Not the parents. Paloma gets cozy and plays with some apps.
3 comments:
I know what you mean, it's always bittersweet when we leave from our Cali visit which is usually only once a year now. Love your grandmother's cemetery - it's so beautiful and looks peaceful. Love how Paloma was wearing her rosary's. We taught my CCD students how to pray the rosary last month. I have begun to pray the rosary, it's been really powerful.
Wahoo's! We have one here in downtown Austin but haven't eaten at it in over 3 years. Must go - have been craving it this Lent especially on Fish Fridays.
Score, Paloma got one of those bassinets! I remember seeing one of those on the plane we flew to Holland back in 2003 when I was pregnant with Madeline. It is a bummer after they turn 2 and need a ticket of their own.
I've enjoyed all your vacation pics!
Awwww, my grandparents are buried at that Forest Lawn too! It's so beautiful and peaceful there.
That is so cool that you got a bassinet! :)
I'm glad that you and the family had a great time on your visit. Looking forward to next time!
Muy hermoso el recuerdo a la Abuela Ana. La foto sonriendo entre Pau y Paloma es realmente emocionante.
Gracias Justine.
Rafael (Yayo!)
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