Guest Suite

My Aunt #1 is coming with my step-grandmother in 3 short days to do her duty as a delegate in the Texas State Republican Convention.

We call my step-grandmother, "Tia," which in Spanish is Aunt. I don't know why -- maybe even after 7 years, the death of my Costa Rican grandmother was so very hard on everyone that they just couldn't bring themselves to call another by her name. This lovely woman is my grandmother's brother's widow; her marriage to my grandfather came in the late 80s as a union of love and regard. They were two children of God, each left alone by the death of their spouse in their later years. She will deny it, but I am convinced that she speaks English, if only in her head. Maybe someone teased her years ago as she attempted to learn the language and now she won't try it out unless she really trusts the listener. I always feel really special when she tries out her English on me.

Now, the younger of the pair is my Aunt #1 (pictured at right) and she is my favorite aunt. She never had children of her own, but she has never been without young people in her life: in her home studying the bible and eagerly participating in "sword drills," or at her piano learning to play for the Lord.

As a young girl, I remember being struck by how much her childhood photos looked like me. As an adult and a convert to Christ, I have been touched by her availability to me and willingness to counsel me without judgment. I've been awed to watch how effortlessly the Gospel pours forth from her -- in deed and conversation -- to anyone and everyone around her. She is a woman whose heart is single-mindedly devoted to the Lord and it shows.

She is industrious too; she has owned her own small company for decades, selling various Christian-education helps.

Back on topic: this will be the 2nd time in 3 years that the gathering of the politically-minded has been here in San Antonio; last time we had an interesting afternoon listening to the campaign speeches, wandering through the button-booth mall and feeling a part of the busy downtown.

Because we get things done best 'round these parts when we're facing a deadline, Husband and I thought this would be a good week to refurbish the guest suite. Gone is the popcorn ceiling texture, two utility florescent lights and the infamous fan. Also picked, peeled and steamed away is the Coca-Cola plaid wallpaper from the dressing area and bathroom.

We both have all but given up hope that the bathroom will be painted pretty and ready for my relatives, but these are gracious ladies and they will understand. It will be functional. At least the sleeping area will be fresh and clean...in 3 days.