This wasn't just any vacation though. Back in October, Chris' mother was down for Madilyn's birthday and mentioned that she really wanted to bring her mother down to Florida, from Germany, for her 70th birthday. It had been 8 years since Chris had seen his grandmother, and of course Maddie and I had never met her. So we immediately started looking for airfare. I somehow stumbled upon airfare for under $300 for us and we just couldn't pass it up. So we booked it without even knowing if his grandmother was going to make it down to Florida. We secretly hoped that our commitment to the trip would make all of the other plans come together. And guess what.... They did!
I must admit I was a little nervous about meeting his grandmother. She speaks German and I had no clue what to expect. Would she understand me, would I understand her? Would I be the only person in the house to not know what was being said?! (Chris speaks some German) I was so happy to find out that all those worries were far from reality. She was so friendly and welcoming. She spoke as much English as she could and actually spoke pretty good English considering she has taught herself. She never made me feel like an outsider and made me feel like I was one of her own. Her and Maddie hit it off immediately. They played, laughed, and she even taught Maddie some German words! She cooked for us almost everyday and made the most delicious German meals you could ever imagine. That woman knows her way in a kitchen. She would cook these massively huge meals and the kitchen would be clean before we even say down to eat. I am sure she has some kind of super powers. It must be a grandmother thing...because I have a few on myside of the family that are the same way.
It was so refreshing to see and hear about other cultures. Madilyn is so blessed to be able to come from such a strong set of cultures. She has had to chance to be surrounded by some of our Cherokee heritage, but this is the first time she has been able to see Chris' side. It truly was a trip of a lifetime.
We all stayed with Alex so the house was full! We didn't have to worry about cooking, cleaning, laundry or any of our normal duties. It was amazing and what was even better is that they were happy to take over those duties. Boy was it a rude awakening coming back home!! Talk about being spoiled.
I also got to visit with my dad and family while down. Although, this visits weren't near long enough. I was able to watch my brother, Noah, play in one of his flag football games. I can't believe he is old enough to be playing in team sports. It seems like he was just born. He was able to put on a fantastic show and even scored his first touchdown! I was a very proud sister. It really stinks that I'm not able to be around more for him. I miss out on so much with him, but I know he is in great hands with Dad, Erin and Mimi. That little boy is surrounded by love!!
I could go on and on about our adventures, but it may get boring to you ;)
I will never forget this trip and the memories we made. I will hold a very a special place in my heart for Chris' Oma. She taught me a lot over the short time we had together and I know Madilyn is missing her already.
We are so blessed to have such a loving set of family members. They each play a very special role in our lives. We wouldn't be the family we are today without them. I am so thankful Madilyn has so many wonderful people in our families to look up to. Thank God for family!
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