Nearly 48 hours ago, I clapped eyes on my sweet boy for the first time in a year! Gabriel is here for a two-week visit, and I am simply elated to be with him. I almost forgot what motherhood feels like.
Brynn knew Gabriel for just a month before we came to Nicaragua, but clearly she remembered him, and was beside herself with happiness, as was I.
When I finalized the plans for this visit, I thought it would be a great idea to host an Independence Day picnic on the 3rd (Sunday) of July to introduce Gabe to the friends I've made here. What I did not think of was the requisite flurry of activity this event would entail during the first three days of Gabe's precious time here. Today, we shopped for the picnic, I made pickled eggs and beets, and made up my list of last minute purchases to be made tomorrow at the best supermarket, La Colonia, near Managua. We'll go early, to ensure a good supply of hot dog and hamburger rolls.
Saturday, 2 July
It is conceivable that hardly anyone will show up for my picnic tomorrow. My friend Noel keeps saying he'll come to see me, and he never does, though in his defense, I turned him down earlier this week because I wasn't feeling well. But sometimes, people say they are delighted to be invited before they even check to see if they are free, and then do not show up. Nevertheless, Gabe and I bused to La Colonia and bought hamburger, rolls galore, and extra rum in case anybody wants to spike their Cokes.
We have balloons to inflate, potato salad to whip up, burgers to shape, and decor to salute the red, white and blue. Tomorrow. Maria José and Byron will put in extra hours to make sure the lawn is clear, the porch is spotless, and the rented chairs and tables (300 cordobas, or $12!) are placed. The weather may not cooperate; we have had showers daily this week. Oh, well. One does one's best, and I am eager to see old friends from La Boquita, and newer ones, too. Wish me luck!
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