It's almost the start of another new year, and with it, it seems appropriate to reflect on one significant realization I had in 2013 - which is to immerse yourself in a deeper appreciation of those that support you, show love to you, and to remember who those people are each and every day. I feel blessed to have just spent the last 8 (awesome!!) days with my family back in my hometown. It was the first time we've been with my family for Christmas in three years!
And as with all visits or stays with my family the time is far too brief and flies by. Getting taken care of - some would even call it being pampered - by my parents, sisters and aunt is quite the luxury in general, especially now that I have a little one. Living out of state and not having a wide network of friends in DC, it makes me feel that much more grateful for the couple of girlfriends I do have here locally, and our visits with my family that much more meaningful. Having so many extra people love Max, dote on him, help care for him is hugely appreciated and it seems impossible to express my eternal gratitude that I have such a supportive family who I know 100% is there for us.
And Max feels the same way, even at the young age of 2, I can visibly see his sweet personality come out even more, his cheekiness grow even bigger, his little laugh get even louder around my family. Why, from Day 1, he immediately hand-picked PauPau (grandma) to change his diapers, give all his baths, prepare his meals, push his stroller. He picked any of his aunties to play with him, and GongGong (grandpa) to drive the car and help him "fix" things. We got to see an actual movie in the theatre and were treated to elaborate home-cooked meals and amazing meals out. And I had to change but one diaper on the entire trip! Well, okidokie, why not, Momma's on vacation! (I'm pretty sure Max is gonna go around town repeating this when we get back, and I'm not sure how that makes me look.) :P
Prior to our trip, I had asked my mom if we could have 7 of my childhood favorites during our visit - including Hong Kong Style potato salad and Chinese hot pot - and my mom, always so generous, always thinking of everyone else first, accommodated. One day I hope to be preparing delicious foods for her and my dad (if they'll let me!!), but for now, it's nice to just know that they take care of me, and now my own little family, too.
p.s. We're also talking Chinese style lobster a la my dad, spicy Korean BBQ, king crab claws and buttery lobster rolls at Joe's Stone Crab, fresh ceviche, and the best. steak. of. my. life at Smith & Wollensky.
And as with all visits or stays with my family the time is far too brief and flies by. Getting taken care of - some would even call it being pampered - by my parents, sisters and aunt is quite the luxury in general, especially now that I have a little one. Living out of state and not having a wide network of friends in DC, it makes me feel that much more grateful for the couple of girlfriends I do have here locally, and our visits with my family that much more meaningful. Having so many extra people love Max, dote on him, help care for him is hugely appreciated and it seems impossible to express my eternal gratitude that I have such a supportive family who I know 100% is there for us.
And Max feels the same way, even at the young age of 2, I can visibly see his sweet personality come out even more, his cheekiness grow even bigger, his little laugh get even louder around my family. Why, from Day 1, he immediately hand-picked PauPau (grandma) to change his diapers, give all his baths, prepare his meals, push his stroller. He picked any of his aunties to play with him, and GongGong (grandpa) to drive the car and help him "fix" things. We got to see an actual movie in the theatre and were treated to elaborate home-cooked meals and amazing meals out. And I had to change but one diaper on the entire trip! Well, okidokie, why not, Momma's on vacation! (I'm pretty sure Max is gonna go around town repeating this when we get back, and I'm not sure how that makes me look.) :P
Prior to our trip, I had asked my mom if we could have 7 of my childhood favorites during our visit - including Hong Kong Style potato salad and Chinese hot pot - and my mom, always so generous, always thinking of everyone else first, accommodated. One day I hope to be preparing delicious foods for her and my dad (if they'll let me!!), but for now, it's nice to just know that they take care of me, and now my own little family, too.
p.s. We're also talking Chinese style lobster a la my dad, spicy Korean BBQ, king crab claws and buttery lobster rolls at Joe's Stone Crab, fresh ceviche, and the best. steak. of. my. life at Smith & Wollensky.
Happy New Year to you! xx
I've missed you all already!!!
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