A Visit with Family                                                      August 3, 2014

 

     I took a trip on a plane.  I was nervous before I left, went through all the usual questions: what have I forgotten, did I count out my meds properly and take extra? Did we consider the traffic in the morning?  I do not want to miss the plane!  By the time I was settled in a wheelchair next to my gate, an hour before boarding time, I relaxed and picked up my book.

     My niece Amy had sent me a lovely invitation.  It was special because the invite included a ticket and hotel reservation with all the comforts I could wish for. The occasion was the summer visit of Rachel, Amy’s daughter who lives in Israel. Rachel brought her three young children with her: Ari 9; Micah 7 and Tamar 2+.  Amy’s grandchildren are my great grandniece and great grandnephews.  They are a delicious crew.

     I have one grandson who is 26 years old.  I love him dearly. It has been awhile since I have had small ones with whom to play.   Ari and Micah were polite, patient and helpful.  They told me stories of what they were doing in Lego Camp; their manners were fine-tuned.  They are delightful.  Two-year old Tamar has so much on her mind: her primary concern is keeping up with her big brothers.  She eats them under the table, she “borrows” their snacks and when she is told not to finish Micah’s chocolate milk, she does of course drain it.  The boys are remarkably patient with little sister. She will howl when one of them finishes her abandoned muffin.  But all she gets when she grabs their food is a dirty look.  I saw none of the arm-twisting that I experienced when I annoyed my big brother.

     My grandniece, Rachel is a dear.  She and her brother Aaron spent many Chanukahs with Erv and me.  Over the years Rachel has been especially caring.  When they moved to Israel four years ago, I was sad.  Though I have visited the State of Israel many times, long trips are no longer possible.  I have to be satisfied with their summer visits and many emails.  At this time, during the present problems between Israel and Gaza, I asked Rachel if they were indeed going to return home.  She answered as a true Israeli, “Of course we are going home, we live in a safe area and the boys will be going back to school.”  I did not argue, the subject had no place to go.  Amy and I will pray and worry, maybe even share concerns. My visit was short but thoroughly satisfying.  How nice it was to see that the boys are big and bright like my brother.  The little girl is independent and somewhat of a mischief as was I. Guess it’s in the genes.

      My trip on the plane was delightful, not a moment of discomfort.  Why was I nervous?  My friend and neighbor who transported me to and fro, was waiting for me; before I had time to worry I heard my name.  Yes it was a good trip!