We got even more precious family time the next weekend when we took a quick trip to the other side of Idaho to visit one of my cousins and closest friends Rocio, and her family. While there, we got to do something I had been wanting to do for years, and visit my Grandpa's grave. In the last several years, its been interesting to feel his influence in our lives and the decisions we've made and the way we are leading them, even though he's moved on. Addy in particular seems to have developed an interest in him particularly, as she develops this love of reading in particular, so we were really excited to be able to do this. It was a nice cool day, and as special and sacred as possible with a million kiddos running around haha But I think thats how he would have liked it. The rest of the weekend was a dream-all the things I sometimes miss living here. A super loud, chaotic, busy and love filled house. Kids and babies running everywhere, important deep, and also shallow and funny conversations, and a lot of good memories. Chio, Hillary and I stayed up till about 3:30 every night, talking and laughing, doing face masks, and watching K dramas. We went walked on the green belt, hit up various parks, learned how to make tamales, watched the kids put on plays, play dress up and so many other things. We got to celebrate St. Patrick's day and the adults were almost as excited as the kids wake up to a pistachio bundt cake, green milk, leprechaun foot prints and messages and a bit of other fun mischief. It was everything I needed while recovering, and to remember who I am and where I come from. The kids never wanted to leave, both from Grandma, and then from their crazy cousins who they ran wild with all weekend.

If I'm honest, it was bittersweet for more than just the kids coming back. I come from a good family, that originates from about a million different places and back grounds-but no matter how far we trail, I love that we are still connected. And I am happy to be making head way here, with my own little family and all the love that we have here.