Que te vaya bien.

My mama (Cristina) came home for the weekend, with her daughter and grandson from Chicago. They left for the States this morning, and I was glad for the chance to have a proper, nice goodbye with her. She made me pancakes once last time this morning...her yummy kind that are more like crepes.

On Saturday night, Sylvi and I slept over Annalise's house. We were sprawled out on her bed, chatting, at 1:30 a.m., when her mama burst into the room. She ordered us to come sleep in her room, and my ¨Thanks, but really, we have enough space here¨was met by her grabbing my arm and pulling me off the bed against my will. (She is strong for 80). Seeing the terror on my face, Sylvi volunteered to accompany me. We were directed to the extra bed in the mama's room. Annalise tried to retrieve us, but her mama told her to go lie down, and then spanked her out of the room! We weren't sure if she was angry at us or just wanted us to be comfortable. That distinction gets lost in the cultural exchange for me quite often.

My Spanish is still a long way from "great," but is improving. Last night, my mama told me I could meet her granddaughters if I go to Chicago in May, and assured me that they all speak English. Then she added, ¨But...you speak Spanish too--no problem.¨Coming from her, that is a really valuable compliment. Also, the other day, I registered for a medication savings card, all in Spanish over the phone without help, and that felt really good!