Por Favor

Elisa is a quick study in Spanish and since arriving here last Tuesday, she has realized that getting what she wants requires more than a smile and a "please." Mas por favor would be the phrase to use, and use it, she is. I think she has a natural talent for getting what she wants and that's no different whether it's abuela or grandma she's asking. Considering it's been half a year since we were in Madrid, she has really picked up right where she left off. Learning tons of words and phrases and jumping right into the family dynamic with her hugs and kisses. We've even enjoyed a couple of nights out on the town while abuela and the family kept Elisa happily occupied.

And except for a little sniffle and cough, Elisa has been in pretty good spirits all week. Our flight over was probably the best international flight so far, and I really think she gets that we are traveling now. We had a two hour delay getting out of JFK the other night, but even during that, Elisa was happy to bounce around on the mostly empty seats and by the time we took off, she was almost ready to pass out. We laid her across a row of three middle seats (a trick I quickly copied after meal service) and for once, I think I actually got some rest while she did too. It gives me hope that in the years to come, we might actually enjoy this part of the trip. Getting back in the swing of Spanish life always takes a few days to adjust, but the delicious meals and constant flow of family around have made it much easier. And of course those two hour siestas which we've somehow managed to perfectly time with Elisa's nap. Oh yes, it's great to be back.