Friday, November 28, 2014

Returning 2 by 2

Saturday, November 22 the hope and expectation that after a prolonged dry spell, the heavens would open and 1 to 2 inches of rain would fall upon the heads and windshields of those in North Texas.  Coincidentally, we received a text from Grant that he would leave Columbia, Missouri on Saturday and drive to Dallas with his girlfriend, Kailene.  Where she would rendezvous with her family, driving up from Houston area.  This would save Kailene airfare and (though unsaid) make the 9 hour drive for Grant more pleasant than usual.

We arranged to all meet at Cantina Laredo.  Grant suggested a reservation time of 6:30.  Then, later in the afternoon a text arrived saying that the reservation should be moved to 7 PM.  The dinner participants were to arrive two by two through the down pouring rain.  Elder Sunesons were first to arrive - as it should be.  We skipped through parking lot puddles and falling drops and were seated at the reserved table.  A few minutes later, Greg and Glenda arrived with son Connor (High School Junior), thus throwing off my two-by-two theme.  But, we welcomed Connor in with the rest.  We exchanged pleasantries and basic information as the Mom's checked their phones for updated texts on the ETA for the final pair.  Around 7:30, Grant and Kailene walked in and exchanged hugs all around and we sat for dinner.  Most ordered tacos and enchiladas, but I opted for the superior carne asada.  None better than Cantina Laredo's.

It was a good time.  Fine folks all.  We parted ways after Kailene unloaded her laptop, clothing and voluminous homework.  It is a 4 hour return trip to Houston home base for Kailene's family. 

The next day we all began to settle into the Thanksgiving Break routine.  Grant had some work for an online class to complete as well as some dialog adjustments to make as part of his screen writing class.  Grant says we could read his screen play if we want, but did not seem over eager to share his work.  I understand.  He did warn his mom, the plot is "R rated".  I understand.

Meanwhile, back at home for 5 days, he catches up on free laundry (!), homework, and spends a day with a friend.  He plans to have Thanksgiving meal with us (requested it to be served early, ~1 PM) and then drive back to Columbia Thursday night to be able to watch the final Missouri Tigers home game vs Arkansas Razorbacks on Friday afternoon.  A Mizzou win means the Tigers win the SEC Conference East Division, and will play Alabama for the Conference championship in Atlanta the following week.  Missouri comes from behind and outscores Arkansas 21 to 14.  Gridiron joy for Grant's senior year.

All arrived two-by-two, but Grant left solo.  He will pick up Kailene at the Kansas City airport when she flies in from Houston on Sunday.  We have given thanks, and everyone goes back to their appointed places and waits for Christmas.


Grant works on his ever-present lap top
while home for Thanksgiving 

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