Reunited

Yesterday was an all-around great day.  I delivered the beach-themed wedding cake to my new friend Cindy for her son's reception, and then went on with Katie, Henry and Peter to pick up Meghan at Albany airport.  She was flying in from Los Angeles, and had been flying since midnight LA time.  Yesterday there was bright sunshine and very few clouds.  It was hot but the humidity had broken, making for what I consider to be a perfect summer day. 

Beach-themed cupcake wedding cake

Meghan's flight from Newark to Albany was delayed a few hours for mechanical reasons, and she finally arrived at 2:30 p.m.  While we were waiting for her with a baby and a toddler (and no stroller - we thought we'd be in and out!), we decided the best way to keep them occupied was to head up to the observation area.  Henry enjoyed watching the planes taking off and landing.  Pete liked hearing his own loud little voice up there, where it seemed to echo and resonate.  I don't ever remember him making such loud, happy noises (and being so impressed with himself) as he did yesterday.  They were such good boys while we waited, and the time seemed to pass quickly.  When she finally walked toward us, we were all just elated to be together once again, and Meghan finally got to meet Pete, and they've become fast friends!

Waiting...

We were barely home when guests began to arrive to the open house we hosted for Meghan's homecoming.  She was tired after flying all night, but so happy to see everyone.  Our simple cook-out evolved into something my sister Anne equated to "a catered event!"  It was a joint effort.  I bought meat and veggie burgers for grilling, and made a sea shell macaroni salad (recipe in previous post).  Meghan's Aunt Lynn made a huge fruit salad, and her daughter Sarah brought chips and dips.  Carolyn made her famous baked beans.  There was a big tossed salad with all kinds of fresh veggies.  Kathryn made a pan of lasagna.  My sister Anne made a Caprese salad.  There were other dishes there I don't know who to give credit to, but I love these kinds of parties where people bring their own contributions.  For dessert, there was Katie's blueberry cobbler and my cupcakes.  I can't believe I didn't take a photo of the spread, but I seemed pre-occupied with watching Meghan's happy reunions.  The one that tugged at my heart-strings was when she saw her sister Tricia arrive, and they ran toward each other with open arms.  Made me cry, I must confess...

Meghan and her Dad

The celebration went long and people stayed late, a true sign of a successful party.  Meghan was understandably tired after her long day(s) of traveling and partying, and this morning slept late.  She's still on California time.  Today it is cool and rainy, a kind of welcome down-day after all the excitement of the weekend.  Now we have five days to fill with as much good time together as we can possibly manage. 

It's so good to have my daughter home.