Washington, Missouri SW5 0PU

My body is confused. I’ve switched home addresses and time zones and weather patterns and wardrobes…again. When I walked off the plane in Chicago the wall of humidity was the first wakeup call reminding me that I was far from London. If that wasn’t enough, the Cardinals t-shirts, floral capri pants and Soffee/tank top combos in St. Louis definitely left no room for confusion. Gotta love the Midwest.

My dad picked me up at the airport and we waited for about 30 minutes for my little brother’s flight to get in from Florida. After a quick stop by the mall for some new ties (that I’m convinced Dad already has) we headed home. One more stop though, we went to my grandma’s house to say hi. She was sitting in her chair as usual and I was relieved to see someone sitting in the matching recliner a few feet away…it would have been hard to see Grandpa’s chair empty when he should be there in his bathrobe with martini in hand, watching the ball game. I’m so glad I’m here.

Thanks to really thoughtful family friends there were 2 hams, ten kinds of salad—including a fruit bowl the size of a kitchen sink—ice cream, pork roast, cookies…waiting for us when we finally made it home. My parents, brothers and I sat down for the best meal I’ve had in a month. I thought it would be sad, but we had a great time. Today was great too…having the entire family together is such a blessing even though our hearts are breaking. Everyone has been so thoughtful and it really makes a difference. Tomorrow is the visitation so I’m off to bed because I’m sure it will be a long day.

Thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers.