My Turn To Meet The Parents

I had heard a lot about Spiros' family before I met them. I knew from our first date that his mother had suffered an out-of-the-blue stroke when he was 12. As you can imagine, everything from not knowing if she would survive to her (lucky) recovery from brain surgery was incredibly difficult for his family. He gave me an idea of how it changed the dynamic, and to be honest, I was nervous to experience it all for myself.

A health crisis of that magnitude has lasting effects. It strained relationships, exposed deeper issues, and of course I'd be remiss if I left out the physical duress his sweet mother has suffered from every day since then. With a practically useless left hand and limited mobility with her left leg, she is an inspiration in all that she does. (Not to mention an excellent cook.)

From the first moment we met, we liked each other. She was so welcoming - especially to a girl who was stealing away her baby to a country around the world. After getting to know her more, I realized she was very funny. (Especially funny in a not-terribly-appropriate sort of way, which obviously I loved. And I learned some helpful new Greek vocabulary along the way. The highlight might have been when she tried to convey the word "balls" to me. Yes, those kind.)

After a couple of days in Athens, I got to meet Spiros' dad, who now lives full-time at their summer house about 45 minutes away. Again, from the first minute we met, I instantly felt welcome and at home. His dad showed me around the property, which includes a vegetable garden housing a million tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and potatoes, fruit trees, and chickens (and a red-headed alarm clock). He quickly learned I have a real problem saying no to food and spent the remainder of our time together stuffing me with fresh, delicious cuisine.

By the end of the trip, I'd gained two kilos (five pounds) and their support for our relationship. His mom even confided in me that Spiros had suffered a sustaining melancholy since her illness and for the first time she saw him really happy in his life. I mean, the sweetest thing, right?

Among other people I met were his older brother, his (brother's) ex wife, their seven year old daughter (who was the one person who NEVER came around to me, I'll blame the language barrier), one cousin, two aunts, and his 100 year old yia yia (grandma). The best part was when he's grandma, who might ask the same question five times but still gets what's going on, asked Spiros when he and I were getting married. He responded "someday." She told him, "Someday is too vague, I want some dates." Hmm, a sassy, straight-forward grandma, who does that remind me of?

All in all it was a wonderful trip, and I really hope they come visit us in California.

Here are a few pictures:

Spiros' grandpa Spiros (who died before he was born)