Oh When the Parents Come Marchin’ In!

yes, today was the day that a wonderfully short and tanned couple and their substantial luggage were picked up at the airport by their newly acquired son in law, and their dutiful and loving daughter. it was very nice to see the tan and the smiles in both of their faces. the family was gathered round the kitchen table, avidly listening to their war stories about the trip and sharing their own. Highlights:

-The plums were confiscated by the customs here in the US, but the coffee, raki, mountain tea, chocolates, raisins, woollen socks, wild oregano, alb. basil, etc. all made it.

-Our neighbor was found half eaten and swarming with worms in his bathroom the day my parents came to town. They only discovered him when they discovered the worms on their way to spring break in the apartment next door. My mom played messenger again and called his estranged wife. I am relieved to report that in death, unlike in life, the man was finally treated with all necessary respects.

-my sister’s mother in-law was once traveling next to a Chinese guy who kept farting every half an hour. finally, she turned to him and yelled: “ekskjuumee! shame on your face! go bathroom if smelly come!” the kind flight attendants came and upgraded her to first class.

-books, books, books.

-Grandma was stronger than ever, and still loved me to death. She insisted that the best of her brood was in USA, right in the chagrined faces of my long-suffering cousins. Through her, I first learned the importance of good PR.

so they are finally home, safe and sound, tanned and healthy. thank you God.