We're back in Montreal for a quick visit with my father-in-law. He turned 80 today, and as this is his first birthday since my mother-in-law passed away, we simply needed to be here. If I've learned one thing from my wife - okay, I've learned many things from her over the years, but please humor me - it's this: sometimes you just need to be there. Doesn't matter whether it's a celebration, a milestone, or even an illness. When it comes to family, she's taught me the unwritten rule. You go. No questions asked.
So here we are. And despite the darkened skies and rain-slicked roads, it was a bright day. Our car was filled with the unmistakable energy of a brood on a road trip. Our kids got a grandfatherly hug when we arrived. Okay, maybe two. And dinner was a dozen and a half members of his extended family filling the room with energy and warmth.
Deb's mom would have loved it. At the very least, her spirit was felt, and for now that'll have to be enough.
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3 comments:
Your wife is right Carmi, sometimes you just have to go, to be there, sometimes there is no specific reason, you need it, they need it.
South of you in St. Jean-sur-Richelieu at my parents.
Ooh, that grey and foggy look. We've been having some days like that, too. But today has dawned crisp and bright and dry and windy. Hope yours clears up soon, too!
I hope you got home ok. Weather seems to have been brutal in southern Ontario.
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