newlyweds & old hats

puddle jumping

Last weekend, we jumped over the puddle of the Gulf of Mexico with a direct flight to Houston, Texas, USA. We weren't just craving some BBQ, but we were there to help celebrate the marriage of my baby brother Brian to a sweet southern gal, Kyleigh. The occasion had all the things - beautiful flowers, gorgeous dresses, cute attendants, yummy food, too many glasses of wine, and friends who are like family. It also had some unexpected events, such as unprecedented rain and the mother-of-the-bride recovering from a copperhead snakebite (thankfully, she is well and was able to do all things wedding). There was so much anticipation and excitement for the weekend that returning to Merida on Sunday was a bit surreal. As my folks dropped us off at the airport in Houston, I had tears in my eyes about how fast and bittersweet it all was, but I was also extremely grateful.

get your knees up

Speaking of puddle jumping, when we returned to Merida, we were accompanied by a hefty thunderstorm that dumped quite a bit of rain on the region. Heavy rain is typical during this time of year, but its effect on the city is unique. When we first arrived, I was confused as to why the sidewalks/curbs were so high from the streets. Well, after a few rains, I have a much better understanding of why my calves get a workout as I cross every street. Because Merida is such an old city and also the drainage infrastructure is, shall we say, unpredictable, heavy rain leads to some streets turning into mini but temporary riverways. We were glad we were on a bus and not walking, but needless to say, because of the rancid smell that lingers in shoes afterward, I carefully plan my footwear based on the forecast.

break in the routine

I have always been a sucker for a solid routine. Like any self-respecting, middle-aged, middle-class mom with a tendency to mentally catastrophize and a desire to be "cool" despite all the craziness in the world - I thrive on knowing or trying to control what is next. While, of course, impossible, I find comfort in the stability of a few things despite all the unpredictability. Putting on the familiar hats of homework, afterschool snacks, favorite TV shows (The Office & Bluey), the same yoga video, and even carrying around the same stuffable shopping bag I've had since college gives me solid ground. So, regardless of an exciting wedding weekend, an international move, or not really having a "grown-up" job, there are, ironically, some elements of habit that are sanity-saving. Nothing is forever, but we are all re-discovering how a routine (and sometimes breaking a pattern) can make all the difference in the view we see out our own window of the world.

flower girl and ring bearer

sibling reunion in the back of a minivan!

getting after the homework

my 'new pioneer' grocery bag is in the bottom right corner - it follows me everywhere

a different view of our routine