Laowai

I had lots of time to think and reflect on our way back home from our Paris/Barcelona vacation:

– When we were nearly home – on our train in Switzerland I leaned over and wispered to Brian “This train is gleaming”. It’s true, this whole country gleams while the people of Barcelona are scrubbing and sweeping their little streets all the time and not ever getting them really clean. There is a distinct layer of dirt everywhere. It accumulates in corners and crevices and makes it’s way up the walls.

– I got to be the one to tuck the little bar of chocolate from the Swiss flight into my bag and then present it to our happy chocolate loving girls. Fun!

– I can’t wait to pat Claire’s diapered bum right after I groan while I pick her up. I can’t wait to be smothered by Bea – she’ll want to sit next to me or even on me. She’ll demand my attention with important Bea stuff to tell in her deliberate litttle voice. All the details that are so important to a five year old. And I know this feeling will fade soon, but I don’t even mind if Claire hangs around grabbing at my legs and says Mommy, Mommy, Mommy.

– I think I must be just about the luckiest girl in the world to be able to take a vacation like this. To see new sights and spend time wandering – guided only by our own whims. To truly forget about everyday routines for a few days. And then to come home to smiling faces. It was a perfect way to celebrate 10 years of marriage. Thank you Brian!