Mega Bus-y

Lately, we have been mega bus-y. Last week I took the overnight Mega Bus to MN. I felt quite out of my comfort zone as I stepped out of suburban land straight to inner city cheap travel. Now, I truly do not mind the cheap travel, especially when I don't have to tick off the exit signs to Rockford, Janesville, Madison, Tomah, Black River Falls, Menominee, River Forest, finally MN, White Bear Ave, and near the MN State Fair Grounds. I illusioned sleeping away the night on a bus. So much for that due to crying kids and a strage seat-mate. Well, some Asian male asked to sit next to me, and as I was one of a total of half a dozen caucasion people riding the bus, I felt comfortable with this seat mate. I really wasn't thinking that I prefer my right side when I sleep and that is where road signs are posted when I sat on the left side of the bus. My younger sister informed me that Iwas out of my comfort zone and some touching on public transportation should be expected. However, when I informed her that he reached over to hold my upper arm - she thought that was weird. Then, around 2:00-3:00 a.m. somewhere in the middle of WI, he stated "I want to listen to" (referring to my iPod). I quickly stated "No, that's ok" as I quickly nuzzled up to the cold window with my u-shpaed travel pillow. Also while trying to showcase my flashy ring stating I was happily taken. My younger sister also thought that was weird. He was MN nice, with a little creepy. Ever feel like you spent the night by yourself, but not quite alone?

The ride back on Saturday, I secured a seat-mate while waiting to board. She looked middle aged and pleasant. She was. The crowd was much more diverse and different then the overnight crowd. (Perhaps boarding mid-morning rather than standing on a corner downtown Chicago at 11:00 p.m. makes the difference.) My seat-mate was a teacher and mother of two older children, ready to embark on the college scene. She was beginning her journey to IL to visit her recovering mother from a hip replacement. Ironcially, I was ending my journey to visit my recovering Mom and care-giving Dad. I had a great visit with Mom, as she was more perked than well, last summer. I guess the right meds can have that effect on a person. We enjoyed a few shopping trips to stock her wardrobe with smaller sizes as she has lost weight. We definitely had a great time, and it was great to see Mom, Dad, and my sister.

However, on the bus ride home I come to find out that Eric's Mom was admitted into the hospital with quite serious pneumonia. She has a nasty infection, quite serious pneumonia and kidney issues. She had surgery yesterday to remove the gunk in her lungs and put in a drain and has been on dialysis a few times. She continues to be in the ICU and a very sick lady. We are grateful that each day has slow progress and no regression.

And then tomorrow is Easter, which I absolutely love! Without Easter, Christmas would hold no meaning. I love the little things about Easter. The early morning will start with "He is Risen Rolls" and boiled eggs. We will be in church early til late due to my ringing bells and the pancake breakfast after. We will "use" the nursery after breakfast to sneak a quick visit to Eric's Mom in the hospital. Then, we will look for hidden Easter baskets filled with neat treats at home. No candy or chocolate as my little boy won't eat any of it. The only edibles are Norah's yogurt covered cranberries, raisins, and pretzels. Of course this year I crocheted their baskets, egg holders, and plush bunnies and all is adorable! Dinner will be just the four of us whenever we want.

We pray that Easter blessings will cheer you and those you love!