Lamenting.

As I sit in another airport I find myself reflecting, lamenting.

I am again smiling. This time because my children got a taste of my childhood.

As I watched my girls in their pretty dresses sitting on a beautifully upholstered couch, giggle with their new found cousins, I grinned.

The servers abuzz around the room passing out cocktails.

The sound of polite conversations being exchanged like a coitillion. Family members dancing swiftly across the room to catch up with each other. The sounds of laughter and excitement echoing through the air in that very ornate room, tucked away within an exclusive club.

Fingers foods laid out beautifully. Everyone dressed impeccably. A professional photographer capturing the moments we may not have even realized were happening.

My son in his suitcoat shaking hands, and creating first impressions. Whispering to me how he felt so grown up.

It feels incredible to show my children a small picture of my own youth, all the while creating new and wonderful memories.

I am beyond grateful to have reconnected with so many. Yet I couldn't help but feel the absence of my Mother more than ever.

This was the first time since the fire I have been here without her, yet I am reassured after this trip, it most definitely won't be my last.

Till next time Chicago.

Next time.

Xoxo,

C.