I went on and on about my skin cancer journey and that I had surgery on October 14th. That surgery meant no bending, stooping, or lifting for 5 to 10 days. That wouldn't be significant except it coincided with Beth's no lifting restrictions that began when she delivered Clara by Caesarean Section on October 1st. That wouldn't be that significant either because Brian had paternity leave from work. Unfortunately though he didn't have paternity leave from his very important and expensive MBA classes in Chicago that take up two late afternoons and evenings every week. That's where I'd come in and help out - except all of a sudden I couldn't.
Lori and Teresa visited from Nebraska and Colorado respectively (and together) a week after Clara was born. At that time Lori and Beth worked out a plan. Beth would buy the ticket and Lori would get on a train and be Beth's nanny/buddy/helper for a week.
Who does that? Who leaves their family and all their responsibilities not to mention their new blog that's just getting rolling to help out somebody who needs them. Only a sister.
While she was here, she did it all including checking out her oldest niece's baby bump.
And checking out and holding her youngest niece (and the reason for the visit).
But she didn't stop there.
She cooked and cleaned.
And sewed some patches.
And took a lot of pictures for me.
Because that's who she is. She's the one that picks up my camera constantly and catches the shots that I might have missed. And she's the one who takes the pictures but isn't in a lot of them.She's more than that too. She's the loving big sister of all her siblings. She's innovative and wise and loving and oh so much fun!
We went to the casino one night - Mr. Right, Lori, Amy (her counterpart), and me and, I have to say it's been a long time since I've laughed so hard. Lori has a sense of humor that just won't quit. She's one of the wittiest people I've ever known.
Monday I volunteered to drive her to Union Station in Chicago so she could catch her train. I didn't want to see her leave but I wanted a little bit more time with her and it was wonderful.
But all too soon she was picking up her bags and walking away. I missed her right away and although we texted during her 10 hour trip home, it wasn't the same.
I just hope she realizes how much we appreciate what a giving, loving, wonderful person she is.And I hope she comes back soon.
She may be the oldest but she's one of 0ur babies and we love her so much and we're incredibly proud of her!
Great post, it really was amazing her to leave everything to come to help her sister out. I remember when I was on bed rest and Lori came with cleaning supplies and cleaned and cooked for me. She's always been like that. I'm just glad I got to see her for a little bit! Love all of the pictures, too...she looks great!
ReplyDeleteI'm a lucky gal to spend time with such a wonderful family. These early days/weeks are so trying, but yet...so memorable, precious and short. I wanted to do something so Beth didn't have to not only do it, but didn't feel she had to do it. I wore so many hats, but loved them all. If I made just one thing, a little bit easier for her...then my purpose for being there was accomplished. Their house is comfortable, warm and inviting....and SO so...full of love. It honestly felt like 'home' to me for a week, and consider myself lucky to be a part of such a huge week.
ReplyDeleteThose were some big shoes to fill with Mom not being able to help, but I'd wear those shoes again, anytime.
This post is so great. It really captures Lori and how helpful and fun she is.
ReplyDeleteWe had such a good time and I'm not going to lie, I wish she would come back. I probably got addicted to her doing the laundry and cleaning my fridge and holding the babies and making my home feel so clean and homey. But mostly, just having her here was so special and something we will all always remember.
*sigh*