There's been a tiny dust storm in my path. It was beautiful and fun, but like any storm, it shook my foundation a little, in a good way.
I thought I was prepared for the stormy onslaught of company that descended on my home recently. I cleaned, spruced things up, shopped and made bedrooms out of office rooms to accommodate family.
I cooked some things ahead of time. This is no easy task considering some family members are vegetarians, others not, some eat hot chile, others don't, some are on low carb diets, then decide to break their rules, and others just eat anything in sight.
One family member insisted on reviving an old Puerto Rican tradition - slightly modified for modern times.
I think Home Depot calls this a meat roaster. We know it as a caja china. This translates literally to Chinese Box. I have no clue why. But among some Caribbean meat enthusiasts, this is the latest, most efficient way to have an old fashioned pig roast.
A pig roast is not something I had in mind as I envisioned our little family reunion, but it turned out to be the highlight.
Of course, I had to deal with my own inner storm of vegetarian resistance, until I caved in to resignation. At least I know the pig was sacrificed in a humane manner, was raised in a free and non- toxic way and if we had not roasted it, someone else would have. I thanked the pig profusely, hoping it had a forgiving spirit that can understand the conflicts and variations of human perceptions.
I wish I could have recorded the laughter that surrounded this roast. Though I did not partake of the meat, I did benefit from the joy it provided.
The little storm was like most little storms. It was replete with excitement, drama, anticipation and finally the realization that it's over, leaving behind traces of its turbulence and lessons for next time.
One thing I learned is that I am unrealistic. I fully expected to be able to blog and read blogs during this time. I overlooked the realities of time, relationships, group activities, trips, and fatigue.
I feel rested now, and ready to resume the calm in which I thrive best. I hope you haven't forgotten me, but I'll remind you of my existence by visiting your wonderful blogs.