Brownie Mix

It began in Early August. The first of the Moreno family (the Brownies as we affectionately call them) Emilia and Ine (Natalia's mom and sister) got on a Jet Blue Airways airplane and ascended over the Colombian sky, looking back on the Savanna of Bogota as they flew northward. They made their way above the clouds to Orlando, where they stayed for a few days visiting Consuelo, a friend of Natalia. From there it was on to another plane, moving westward and away from the familiar (for Ine) Florida to Houston, on to Tokyo, then Singapore and finally Kuala Lumpur. Asia awaited. So did we!

Laurence drove to the airport to pick them up and what ensued was a frenzied tour of SE Asia for both of our visitors, sometimes with us and sometimes without. All told they saw Singapore, Malaysia (of course), Thailand (Bangkok anyway) and the awe inspiring temples at Angkor Wat (Cambodia).  To make things just that much more interesting their visit coincided with Ine's birthday. So why not just have Adriana and Luca fly in from Italy for 10 days as a surprise visit for her too?  The birthday celebration was filled with visiting candles (the two Italian cleverly disguised) dancing around the living room. When Ine actually recognized, of all things, the hair on Luca's arm, she was thrilled and happy as can be. The thrill lasted throughout the visit, even after Adri and Luca flew off to Hong Kong for a few days before returning to Milan. 

On this end the final days were filled with the requisite visits to favorite restaurants, shopping opportunities and their visiting with Connie, a now dear friend of Emilia who is happy to show everyone around town as soon as they arrive. This time was no exception and, in fact, they were all happy to visit Bangkok together on a weekend shopping spree second to none. :-)

Finally, when they boarded the plane for their return back to the US (and then Colombia) they were tired but happy as can be. The tears were shed by those newest to the experience (including Emilia Patricia, Avi and TTmouz). Best wishes shared. Promises of reunification in June. The realization of how much has been missed (through time and space) but also the appreciation for all that's been experienced. The door closed and the relative quiet returned to the apartment. Things are "back to normal". Yeah, let's call it that.