It seems this year’s family vacation would take us to Pennsylvania. My father was born here, and this is where we buried him in 2001. It’s time to go pay pops a visit and see the rest of the family as well. I decided to cronicle this adventure more for the sake of posterity for my family than anything else. But if you care to read about it, feel free!

Ok, bear with me. My mental juices are squeezed almost completely out. Why? Conversations like this:

Rhys: “Where’s Lola? (Filippino for Grandmother)”

Heidi: “She’s in her room, honey.”

Rhys: “Oh… She go nite nite?”

Heidi: “Yes…”

Rhys: “Oh…Kaaay.”

Not 5 minutes later…

Rhys: “Where’s Lola?”

Heidi: “Honey, do you remember what I just told you?”

Rhys: “Yes.”

Heidi: “…”

Rhys: “Where’s Lola?”

He’s done really well. Really, really well for a two year old. We’ve really asked a lot of him. He’s about at the end of his rope. His fit throwing frequency has doubled and it’s next to impossible to reason with him anymore. I’m SO glad we are going home tomorrow.

Today we met Aunt Dot and Uncle Lou for lunch. We ate at Perkins! Remember that place? Denny’s doesn’t have shit on that place! :) We had such a great time with them throughout the entire visit. It’s always good to see them, and I can’t wait for them to visit again in Tucson. So, if you guys are reading this, thanks so much for being so kind and making us feel so welcome just like you always do. Thanks also for going out of your way to show us around and how to get to everyones’ houses. You guys were great, as always.

After lunch we went to my father’s grave to say goodbye and let Rhys see where his grandpa is resting. I know it was very important to my mom to see the grave. I’ve always felt, that I don’t need to visit the grave to feel closer to my father. I can always tip a glass back and say a few words and that’s always been enough for me. But, I must admit, being in the physical place where he actually is really drives things home. Dad, I still miss you so very much.

Right now, we are sitting about 1000 yards off the tarmac by the Pittsburgh Airport. Our flight is tomorrow morning. We will fly to Denver and connect to Tucson. Oh, and this just in, blizzard conditions in Denver! See you guys tomorrow… or the next day… or whenever. :)