Moms Are The Best!

My mom leaves town today;
I’ll do my best to focus on the adventures we shared while she was visiting––rather than being sad that she has to go.
Her love and support have helped me shine through every single journey I’ve walked.
But what I miss most when she’s not here, is her sense of humor––her contagious laugh is like an opera.
My heart is warm when her eyes sparkle with a wild thought or cleaver remark;
Every witty bone in my body was passed down from her.
We both like to shop, too.
And of course, I will miss our quality coffee talks!
I love you mom.

Mani Pedi With Mom

A trip to the spa with my mom;
Bonding over a manicure and pedicure with a champagne toast.
Because who doesn’t love being pampered?
My mom has always been a fabulous shopping buddy, I’m a lucky guy––and I have the soft hands and shiny toenails to prove it.

Coffee Talk

One of my favorite activities while visiting my family over the holidays is to go out for coffee with my mom or dad.
Bonding over a warm caffeinated beverage in the Colorado cold is the ideal way to share our lives.
Exchanging victories, laughing about old memories and comforting one another on losses and setbacks.
My mom and dad have always been my heroes.
Their support, leadership, knowledge and love have guided me from childhood to adulthood; and I continue to learn and laugh with them every opportunity I get.
My dad and I spent our mornings sharing stories on the way to school.
My mom and I have been addicted to Starbucks and social hour just as long...
For me, it's the simple joy of sitting down with either of them and getting to know them; not as mom or dad––but as people with vibrant backstories.
Sure, we could bond just as easily at home, but there's something about a cup of "joe" that makes the moment that much stronger!

A New Word For Goodbye?

I have a difficult time saying goodbye-
Such a simple word, to describe an act that is so loaded with emotion.
Someone is leaving.
Will they comeback? Will you see them again?  Won't you miss them?  Won't they miss me?
We use the word goodbye so casually, it feels like we should have a more appropriate word for a longtime send-off.
"I-love-you-and-I'm-going-to-miss-you-and-I-want-to-remember-this-moment-and-your-laugh-and-the-way-you-smell-and-our-moring-coffees-and-our-addiction-to-posting-photos-and-shopping-sprees-and-I-love-you!"
See.  Doesn't that feel like more than "goodbye"?
But I have no choice.  My mom is leaving, and I have to say something; so I guess it will be thank you and goodbye, followed with a long hug.
Until next time!

I Want Candy!

When moms in town, our house looks like a super sized candy store.
Similar to those you see at amusement parks and touristy vacation destinations.
My mom is seriously addicted to sugary treats, and though I usually stay away from all things high fructose corn syrup related, I'm totally guilty of shoving at least a pound of Sour Patch Kids down my mouth!
They taste so good going in, and then I feel like shit.
It's how I imagine Honey Boo Boo child feels daily.
Which is why starting first thing tomorrow I'm getting rid of the junk.
Wait, Halloween is Friday?
Starting first thing Saturday, I'm getting rid of the junk!

Family Time!

When family comes to visit, I can hardly contain my excitement!
Unconditional love and support, aside-  the members of my family are wild, crazy, and passionate.  They all have big personalities, too.
Especially my mom.
Whether we hang out at home watching movies and eating popcorn or go on a lavish shopping spree at the mall, the bonding time is irreplaceable.
Now that I'm an adult, I appreciate my family more than ever-
I realize I would be lost without them.
Even when they piss me off, I'd still rather spend my time with them than almost anyone else.
...I said almost.

Goodbyes Suck

Saying goodbye is never easy;
Especially when it's your mom.
Watching as the car turns the corner and fades into the sea of traffic-
It's like a vacuum cleaner is sucking the laughter and unconditional love away from you.
Just like that, the suspended childhood-bond that emerges whenever she is near, gets ripped apart all over again.
My heart sinks and I realize, my life as an adult must continue.

Family Vacation, Saying Goodbye

Family vacation,
Spending time with the people I love;
Laughing a lot and eating more!
Italian passion is wrapped in emotions-  AKA calories.
My family is crazy, hilarious, loud and opinionated.
Despite the moody moments, our quality time was filled with joy.
Highlight: wonderful one-on-one time with my sister and my beautiful niece.
(The first vacation with my sister since high school!)
The time is near to say our goodbyes.
When I was a kid, that meant a lot of tears.
As an adult, I value the time I have and look forward to the next one!
Hopefully sooner than later.
I love my family.

I Hate Goodbyes!

I've always had a rough time saying goodbye.
Today was no exception!
After a wonderful week with my mom, the time has come for her to return home.
I try to remind myself to enjoy my time with her, and remember that I'll see her again soon-
Unfortunately, no matter how old I get or how much time I'm able to spend with her, saying goodbye kills me.
I will miss her warm energy, laughter and sassy commentary.
But more than anything else, I will miss how safe and protected I feel while she's visiting.
I think I have such a tough time with goodbyes, because I realize how long the space between "hello" can be.
I'm grateful for 21st Century technology.
FaceTime has revolutionized long-distance communication, but nothing will replace the caring embrace of my mom or the delicious smell of her homemade pizza!
Safe travels mom.  I can't wait for the next hello!

Mom's In Town!

I love when my mom comes to visit me,
Spoiled with love, laughter and gifts!
But mostly I'm grateful for the time I get to spend with her,
Sharing stories and catching up on her life.
My mom has always inspired me to take on new challenges, invite change and live in the moment;
Which is exactly what I needed this time of year.
To push myself past the fear and embrace the exciting new opportunities!

Addendum

My trip home also gave me the opportunity to spend quality time with the rest of my family;
Particularly, my sister, niece, mom and dad.
I'm so proud of my sister-
She is raising a magical little girl. Kellyn is smart, outgoing, creative and has a huge personality!
(I'm not just saying this as a love-crazed uncle...)
My sister has survived cancer and continues to fight illness, while renaming strong and active. She is a warrior. I love her, and I'm gratified that we continue to build on our bond.
My mom is a bright light- always supportive, excited and positive about my achievements. She has been my cheerleader and confidante. Our friendship continues to soar. I'm most grateful for our "coffee talks." She's always dropped everything to come to my aid.
Dad- is my hero. He continues to be the constant force in my life. Reminding me, by example, that we can always give, love and do more.
Each trip home, my connection with my sister, mom and dad grows deeper.
I am blessed.