We’re leaving at three in the morning. I dread this ride. I’m hoping to get to Bryan’s by four. Saturday is Brylee’s recital. I’m very happy I’ll be able to see her. She is so unbelievably cute and can dance, she knows her routines.
On Monday is “cousins night.” I love getting together with my cousins. Carol and John always host. My cousin Jimmy and Ann, Lauren and Jerry, and my cousin Susan. My sister Patty, (who I detest and don’t talk to), with her husband Paul. In the past my brother and Yvette came. It is a lot of fun.
I offered to bring a charcuterie board, then I started stressing about it and sorry I said I would. I took a picture of the board with dimensions and asked ChatGPT to put together a board with what I wanted. I also sent a picture of the board. It was so precise on where to put cheeses, meats, nuts, fruit. Listed cheeses, meats and crackers to buy. Made suggestions for other foods. I’m no longer stressing.
On Christmas Eve out to Long Island to Pete’s mothers. This is the last year we’ll be together there. Jan, Joey and my mother-in-law are moving to North Carolina, right by us! Anyway it always starts by going to church. I don’t really like to go, it seems like a big show. The whole family, Pete’s brother and sisters and wives, husbands and grown nephews all attend. I find that there is such hypocrisy in the people who attend and the prejudice that they practice. Anyway the church looks beautiful and I do get something from the sermon.
We’re going to visit Pete’s aunt, Sister Marian. She is 100 years old. Her health is failing but she’s sharp as a tack. She is a doctor and has always worked with Maryknoll Lay Missioners. This is a Catholic mission-sending community committed to non-violence through prevention. Sister Marian has spent her life serving the women in Africa. Founding a hospital. She has also worked in South America. She has led an amazing life. I admire her courage and dedication.
Next is Christmas Day at Bryan’s and Laura’s. This is fun, filled with good food and spending time with Brylee is the best.
December 26, rest and heading back to Virginia on Friday.