My family made the 5 hour trek up from “almost Mexico” to see us for the holiday. It was enjoyable to have a house full for the feast and lounge around visiting with each of them for a few days. I cooked, shopped and walked with my Step-Monster (term of endearment). I almost beat my brothers at rummikub, but MWD creamed all three of us instead. Dad and I bonded through osmosis and we both drank coffee and surfed the net on separate computers in the same room. There were also movies and breaking in the new fire pit and decorating the tree. Family time. This is Hayden’s last year home before college. Sniff. Sniff. How can that be?

On Thanksgiving night we watched Home for the Holidays. My Dad and I have joked for years about how much we can relate to the movie. It’s a decent movie with the exception of the obvious turd that was forced into (unnecessary love interest angle) the story to make it viewer friendly or hollywood happy or whatever. It did get me thinking about how bizarre and great family can be. The same people who can shove you into a giant red parka that you would never wear can also finish sentences and memories for you and sometimes guess things that you haven’t said.

The best thing I got out of the movie was a reminder that we all hang on to these little moments that we have recorded in our minds. It’s these memories of moments that were just tiny flashes of ordinary greatness that make us love and long for someone. I know I have many. I probably made a few of these moments this weekend. Unfortunately we can’t recall them all on demand. Maybe that is why I take so many pictures – to help me remember. The photos aren’t really of the moment, but they trigger some brilliant memories. Of course smells do this too. Everytime I add some turmeric to a recipe I think of this really cool lady I used to work with in Lubbock. And music triggers all kinds of memories. Don’t get me started on that.

Zillions of seemingly insignificant moments are what make up our lives. Sometimes they can change or influence a person in a way you never intended. That’s kind of a scary and powerful thought.

 All day yesterday and today I was thinking about this and then I got an email from my Mom tonight. We haven’t spoken in over 5 years and there were some quality reasons behind that action. I mean I have plenty of those seemingly insignificant moments with her that changed my life for the worse. My heart can’t lie though I miss that woman. I am cautiously interested in where this path is going to lead. I was just reminded after all  - never say never.

The Fam: Carrie, Dad, Hayden & Connor

Jack & Nonna

Grandpa & Jack