There is only one thing better than having an Aunt who is a teacher, having an aunt who is a teacher AND from Southern California.

Tina called one day and while chatting, we decided it would be great to have her come out for a visit. Her fiance, Will, could not make it but she was free until late August. I had not seen her since Thane’s first Christmas, so it had been quite some time. We were well overdue.

Scheduling was challenging, but in the end I am glad I told her to just book it because my travel plans fell through.

She arrived on a Friday and we had a full calendar for her. In the car ride, she asked what the kids would call her and we both agreed that Aunt Tina sounded right and laughed that we had no idea what first cousin, once removed meant after all!

Friday night we cooked at home and spent time talking and letting the kids get to know her. Saturday she came with us to hockey and soccer. Then she and I went out while everyone napped. Then it was off to girls’ night out, Nash Trash style. We met the girls for dinner then did a few of the Honky Tonk bars, even seeing someone being arrested.

Tina’s suggestion Sunday was better than I could have ever thought myself. She and her grandmother (my great-aunt) often cooked Greek-style together. Instead of dinner out, she suggested a full Greek dinner. We invited another family over and then spent the rest of the days shopping. It was so nice to cook with someone else, family, in the kitchen, making giagia’s recipes. I think gia would have been proud, I know Pappou and Aunt Helen were happy to hear what we had done.

At dinner that night, Tina got to read stories to 4 enchanted children. They loved to follow her around and she had such a way with them, I am so glad she found her way to teaching.

Furthering her cool aunt status, Aunt Tina also bought the kids some new clothes. Thane got a Super Hero shirt, with a 70s look to it, and he said it was “Soo Cool” and he would wear it to school the next day. Mara got a Hello Kitty nightshirt and matching head band. As soon as she got them, she had to put them on, with her matching rain boots. Both kiddos love their Aunt Tina.

When it was time for her to head back, all too soon, Thane said he was very sad to see her go. Me too. It was good to have family. Felt even more like home.

Thanks for coming, Teen!