It’s been nearly a year since I wrote my Why We Cook post. And it seems as though this journey is about to come full circle. It’s essentially been a year of borrowed time that looks to be coming to an end. But I once again have an opportunity to be present in person and let the Universe guide me to where I need to be, when I need to be there.
The notion of preparing what could be my father’s last birthday dinner is heartbreaking. But it’s also a gift, an opportunity to celebrate him while he’s here to witness it. I fear that I may not find any words and hope that the act of simply being there and giving of myself in the one way that I truly know how will be enough.
I am getting on a plane today but I can’t say how long the final steps on this journey will take. Or how long it will be before I find my way back into the kitchen once it is over. To steal a line from my post last year…There are still new posts scheduled to go live here at BAH for a while, as well as all of the Exit 51 archives on Flashback Friday. And I hope to be back soon to cooking and writing and commenting and following along with your adventures. Until then, Bon Appetit Hon.
Bon Appetit Hon 
Wendi, I think this post is beautiful and, to use your word, heartbreaking. And I just wanted to leave a comment to say that.
Thanks Jen.
Wendi–Just remember, wherever the Universe takes you, we’ll all be there for you. If you need anything, please let me know!
Thanks Beth. Knowing that I have the support of everyone when I get back makes going on this trip a little easier.
Your presence alone is, without a doubt, the best birthday gift you could ever give your dad.
Safe travels and take care, Wendi. I’m just an email away.
Thanks Ali. That’s what I keep telling myself too but somehow it just doesn’t feel like enough.
Have a good trip. It sounds tough, but also like a time you will look back and treasure. I hope you all can celebrate life without letting thoughts of the future marr your time together.
Jenna, I keep hearing part of a song in my head…’hold on to these moments as they pass’. So that’s what I am trying to do.
Mother Teresa said “It is not the magnitude of our actions but the amount of love that is put into them that matters.” It’s always more than making a meal – it’s sharing it and creating new memories. I send my love, Wendipants. Have a safe journey, friend.
Brooke, what a beautiful quote, and exactly what I needed to hear. We got a bit of better news today so in all it’s been a good day.
Just be there and share yourself. Know that the Universe has aplan and knows what to do. Ask the angels to hold you allcloseand know that it is as it is supposed to be I send you and your dad my best wishes and love and the best on his journey.Please tell him I said all will be well and my prayers will follow.
Emily, thank you. Everyone’s good thoughts helped me through the trip and are greatly appreciated.
A lovely, perfectly written post. The emotion that sits right under your words is so powerful. It’s impossible for me to read this without tears welling up. Go. And we’ll be here when you come back.
Thank you for the kind words Chris and Karen. Seeing these comments helped tremendously.
Thinking about you sweet lady. Hope your week is peaceful and full of love.
Thanks Elizabeth. All things considered, it was a good trip and I’m glad I went.