joy: week 17

we are family

Sometime you go a week without much joy and sometimes a week goes by that gives you joy in abundance. I am grateful for weeks like this. Let’s get right to it.

My daughter Natalie, who moved to LA last December, came home to visit. She arrived Monday and she’s had a pretty whirlwind week seeing friends and family but we have managed to spend some quality time together. It’s so wonderful to have her back in my house, even if just for a little bit. I missed her doing dishes at 11pm or taking 45 minute showers and my brief annoyance at these things felt comfortable and well worn. She goes back to California tomorrow, and I am grateful for her visit this week, for spending time with her, for the joy she puts in my heart.

Wednesday evening I went out with Natalie and our friend Kerry. I have not socialized except with my family in ages. I haven’t really gone out anywhere. I feel like I rarely sit and have conversations with someone besides myself. So it was lovely to get out and hang with people. We went to Witches Brew, a delightful cafe in West Hempstead that’s been here for over 20 years that I somehow never went to. We had delicious food and some great tea and just sat and and enjoyed each other’s company on the outside patio.

Friday, my sister Lisa and family arrived from Rhode Island. I love when they are here. Having the whole family together is such a joyful thing. We truly enjoy being with each other and whether we are just sitting around the backyard watching baseball or out to lunch at our favorite Mexican restaurant, we have fun together.

Lisa is here for a reason. Saturday was our annual Family Day gathering. I’ve written about the day and its history before, and about how special it is to us.

We had a good turnout and the weather cooperated. Cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends all gathered together in one place does wonders for my heart. I spent a good portion of the day hanging with my first ex husband (my kids’ father) and his wife and that made me happy. We ate and drank (afternoon sangria is never a good idea) and had our annual trivia contest (congratulations to team Butt Sweat). We watched the Met lose 21-3 and played cornhole and reminisced. It was exhausting and wonderful and my heart is full. Our little celebration of family has really turned into something so awesome and joyful. I couldn’t be happier. What a week. Joy was everywhere.

my dog nephew duke having his first pup cup

I woke up at 3am in time to watch a gorgeous lightning storm making art in the sky. I have another day with Lisa and Natalie before they both leave for their respective states. Thursday, I see the orthopedic surgeon and I’m looking forward to him saying I can take the boot off. I have a lot to look forward to. It’s going to be a good week. Hope the same for you.