Returning to work, greeted by hugs from coworkers and friends, taking wellness walks, receiving an invite from my boss for my 30th birthday celebration, and coming back to my desk after a meeting to a big bouquet of flowers from our agency congratulating me on my promotion, helped.
Coming home at the end of the day to beautiful sympathy cards and in particular, a very special one from SGS saying that every day this year a candle would be lit at the Grotto for Red Barry, helped.
Re-assuming my position behind the stove, on the floor that matches the one at 126, felt great, and I believe would have made Grandma and Grandpa proud. Four nights of hearty, comforting meals that did a whole lot of soul soothing, helped.
(I didn't pull out the camera this week, so apologies for my Instagramed photos.)
Hanger Steak with Mushrooms and Red Wine Sauce
Paccheri Pasta with Braised Saffron Chicken
Tortilla Soup and Cheese Quesadillas
And then there were the surprises - the 'Guess Who?' And 'Guess What?' of this week that helped me focus on life.
On Thursday, Facebook started blowing up with updates from Aunt Beth, sitting on the tarmac, waiting at the gate, delayed and delayed again, getting a voucher, and overall being screwed by United/Continental en route back home in Hawaii. I offered her room and board at the Ranch, and she accepted. Peter, guess who's coming for hanger steak dinner tonight? Aunt Beth! The Aloha met Naperville, and it was grand.
Guess What? The second offer might just do it.
Guess What? They accepted, I'm going to sign, and we're closing April 5
Long story, short - we put the Ranch back on the market last week, and it's under contract. So we might be moving, and apparently very soon.
While loss, absence and hurt linger, the good news on the other end of multiple lines of communication this week, helped me get back to our good life.
And apparently, it continued last night ... this in via text and tweet. My cousin, is now Major Cumpston. (BIG congratulations!)
Lo.
