"Mommy, We Missed You"

Mame went on an overnight business trip in the middle of your visit with me. She left early one morning and returned late the next day. I was so happy spending time with you, grandchildren, that I did not realize how much you were missing your mother until we went to the airport to pick her up. If we had waited in the car out front instead of going inside to meet her, I might have missed it entirely; what with you buckled into your car seats and her climbing into the front seat and throwing you kisses, it might have gotten by me. But leaning into the partition that separates traveler from waiting loved ones, your feelings were as clear as the glass beside you. I saw the longing, the worry that she might not come, the fear that you might blink your eyes too hard and miss her as she walked past. I'm sorry, little ones, but it is just too long since I was a child, and I have forgotten all these things.

"Where's mommy?" Weezie asked me at intervals. "When is she coming?"
"Just watch and wait," I responded each time. "She will come through those doors, just like you did when we arrived together last week. Watch the doors."

"Where's Mommy?" Clam asked also. "Why isn't she here yet?"
"She'll be here soon," I sighed, wondering if it had been a mistake to come inside. I thought it would be a treat, one you do not often get in the busy DC area. Airport arrivals there are almost always a drive-by but Mame had brought you both inside to meet me on my last visit, and it had felt so right. "She'll come through those doors any minute now."

And of course she did. You raced to meet her. I could not make my feet follow and my fingers work the camera fast enough to get the shots I wanted. But your feelings were palpable and I snapped away, hoping to get something worth keeping.

Words fail me here.

Easing up and letting go a bit.

Everyone is composed again, except for Nonna who is still tearing up and turning away, just for a moment.
All right, now, what shall we do for dinner, ninos?
And however shall I manage when you leave at week's end?