Spring Break 2026

 This year cousin Aidyn joined us for part of his spring break.  He spent the first weekend with Theresa at Grandma and Grandpa's and flew back to spend the second half of the break in Virginia.  Flying was more suspenseful thanks to the continued government shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, including the TSA agents who were working without pay.  By the point of this trip, they were 6 weeks in without pay, resulting in growing security lines as many agents were not coming to work and quitting (who can blame them - they were not getting paid).  This meant arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before flight time.  Everyone else was also on spring break, which meant a crowded airport with frustrated travelers.  Fortunately, there were no major issues getting through security and just more time sitting around.

Aidyn arrived in DC for record heat and exploding cherry blossoms.  We went on a hike one day at Riverbend





park and enjoyed the Virginia Bluebells, which were in peak bloom.  We also got to see an eagle in the next along the Potomac River.  Anna joined in on her day off for a trip into DC on a very chilly day to see what was left of the cherry blossoms and visit the Native American history museum.  Aidyn also got to take a trip to the Micro Center store with Uncle Joe and enjoy all the electronic.  There was also homemade pizza night on Friday before he flew home on Saturday of Easter weekend.

Easter celebrations are different every year and this year was no exception.  Anna made the Easter bread (albeit a more efficient variation on the Fagella family recipe).  Theresa made the lamb cake.  She was excited about some new cookie & cake decorations that someone gave her, including some eyes.  After putting them on the cake, Anna rightfully pointed out they were for Halloween cookies and looked creepy on the lamb.  We returned to the traditional jellybean eyes.   We also colored Easter eggs.  On Easter morning, the family headed to the late morning mass followed by brunch with Klara & Fefzi.

The rest of the month has included:  

  • *Extreme temperature swings that require the air conditioner one day and the heat the next day.
  • *Major reseeding of the backyard following the large tree taken down in the fall. Joe is watering regularly and literally watching the grass grow.
  • *Shopping for a car for Anna - her quest continues.
  • *New jobs - Anna picked up a second job at Wolf Trap for the summer and Theresa accepted a position at St. Mark parish and school as the business manager.
  • *New medicine for Benny who appears to have rapidly advancing arthritis and spinal/hip issues.

Happy spring!

 


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