A Visit From Dubai

About six months ago, my brother left for Dubai.

I was not happy. My Mother was kind and

understanding. I hoped that when he came

back, Mom would still be here to listen

to all he had to tell about

his time.

She wasn't.

This week, my brother is home on vacation.

He chose to come up here to spend time

with the kids. Shortly before she died,

my Mom shared with him how much

he meant to the kids. He listened. He's done a lot

to make himself available to be with the Big K. and Doodles.

One evening, after dinner, he brought out all sorts of stuff that

he brought with him from Dubai.

He showed them maps and money.

He explained what each coin meant and what it was worth.

He showed them where he lives

in Dubai, and told them about the weather and the people.

The kids were fascinated. They sat for almost two hours listening

to everything he told them. They asked about

a million questions, and he

took the time to answer each and every one.

He also brought them special presents

that he'd picked out just for them.

He told them why he chose each gift, and where

the gifts had come from.
The Big K. loves animals, and Tio picked out a hand

carved camel with a baby camel inside. The wood was palm tree

wood. I found out, that that's the only type of trees there are in Dubai.

He also brought the Big K. a box with a snake

in it. You hit a button, the snake pops out.

He brought Doodles bunches of bracelets.

He explained how they

were made and where he found them.

He also gave her a ring. He answered all of her questions about the ring

and the stone inside. The gifts were perfect.

The visit was wonderful and bitter sweet.

I couldn't help but think how much my Mom would have loved to

hear about Tim's travels. She would have loved

to see the coins and the gifts he brought for us.

Most of all, she would have been so proud of him. Proud of him

for remembering how important he is to the kids, how much

they love him, and how needed he is.

I was so very happy to be able to spend the time with him.

Thank you for coming home Tim. I can't wait to see you again in

six months.