Christmas in Chicago

Going home for Christmas was a mix of feelings. I was excited to see everyone but what if I missed them too much and didn't want to go back to London?

I arrived on Christmas Eve around 1:00p.m. My stay was very short and every day was planned with seeing family and friends and of course shopping. I felt bad I could not see everyone in my short 4 days. My surroundings felt the same yet different. When I woke up the first day, all I could do was stare out the window at the houses and the snow. It was familiar yet foreign.

I gained a better appreciation for home. It felt really good to be home in the comfort of family and friends. Rosie made me feel very welcome in her home in the middle of her construction. My family welcomed me with open arms and my friends were happy to see me. Rosie's mom cooked tamales and posole that I ate the whole 4 days I was there. Yes, even for breakfast at 7:00a.m. I had the best coffee. I surprised my grandmother and loved the smile on her face. She even cooked my favorite dish of hers - fideo. Even though I changed up Christmas for my cousin and her kids, I really enjoyed it. I was very proud of her for keeping my mom's traditions. We shared some very emotional moments about growing up with my godson and moving forward in life. I loved sharing stories about Europe with my Aunt Diane's family. I also got to meet the newest baby in the family.

It snowed about 5 inches or so over the course of the weekend. I worried that I would forget how to drive or the main roads. Nope. If anything, I felt like a road warrior..Not only had I not driven in 3 months but I was still able to drive in the crazy snow.

On Monday, the 28th I headed back to London. Since then I've been a little homesick but I still have a lot to do in Europe. I had my first visitors, Niria and Sonia to ring in the New Year. I think it is perceived that London is so far from Chicago. At least for me, it's just a plane ride away. (I sleep most of the way) Thank goodness for modern technology to always keep me connected to my loved ones.