A Birthday Worth the Journey
Last month, I traveled back to my hometown to celebrate my mom’s 79th birthday. After everything she went through last year—an illness so severe it led to an ICU stay and so much uncertainty—this birthday felt like a gift. There was no question in my mind: I needed to make the 2,000+ mile journey to be there with her.
But first… a “mandatory” visit to my favorite taco spot as soon as I arrived.
My mom is full of life. She seizes each moment in a way that’s both inspiring and contagious, and she has a beautiful way of choosing joy, again and again.
I arrived on her birthday, which made it all the more special. I was completely exhausted from travel and an early wake-up call that came way too soon—but the moment I hugged her, none of that mattered. Being with her was all I needed.
She requested a simple birthday cookout: grilled steak tacos with all the fixings. My brother, the grill master, took charge of the meat, and I helped with everything else. The food was incredible—the steak cooked to perfection, the refried beans made by my mom’s cousin rich and comforting, and my aunt’s salsas absolutely delicious. And of course, my mom had not one, but two cakes—both amazing.
It was a small, intimate gathering, but it was overflowing with love.
By the end of the day, I was still physically tired, but my heart was so full. Just looking at my mom—happy, present, celebrating—made everything else fade away. It was a joyful day, one I’m deeply thankful for.
I was only there for a few days, but I was intentional about how I spent them. I didn’t make many plans. I just wanted to be with my mom—to sit with her, talk with her, and soak in every moment.
She asked me if I’d make her homemade huevos rancheros, and of course I did. Modesty aside, they were ridiculously good!!!
I was blessed with a few more hugs and visits with people I love—brief moments, but so deeply worth it, and I’m truly grateful for them.
My mom was craving authentic Mexican food, so we went to a popular local spot. We had tamales, tostadas, and hard-shell tacos—so delicious!
A quick visit with the baby of the family for a sweet squeeze and a little extra love.
A street vendor passed through my mom’s neighborhood selling baked sweet potatoes with delicious toppings. Of course, I had to stop him and get some—so good!!!
It’s not a trip to my hometown, if I don’t visit my favorite coffee shop!
The day before I left, we went to church together—my mom, my brother, and I. It was a beautiful liturgy. After Mass, we visited the mausoleum where my dad’s and brother’s cremains are kept. Those visits are always humbling, a quiet reminder of love, loss, and the ties that hold us together beyond this life.
Afterward, we went out for lunch at a place I love—one my mom had been wanting to try. We shared good food and even better conversation. Truly, what more do we need? Life feels simple and enough when you’re surrounded by the people you love.
Later that day, a friend picked me up for a concert. One of my favorite artists was performing, along with several special guests, and it turned into an eight-hour celebration of music and joy. I wore cowgirl boots—because of course I wasn’t going to a country concert in gym shoes—and by the end of the night, I could barely walk. My feet were screaming, but it was absolutely worth it. 🤠
It was one of those unforgettable nights.
The next morning came with another early flight—and a brutal migraine. Not exactly the send-off I would’ve chosen, but there was no option but to push through. After a long day of travel, I made it home—exhausted from head to toe, but filled with gratitude.
Grateful for time.
Grateful for presence.
Grateful for love—given and received.
