Special Gramma times

Some things are so good that putting words around the experience somehow lessens it, but let me try.  I took Erika, my 12 year old granddaughter, to San Francisco to see the musical “Bronx Tale.”  She loves musicals, the dancing and singing and even takes a musical theater class back in E. Lansing.  She was very excited about just the two of us going to see this musical.  I was so excited too.  We took BART into the City and had time to wander the Nordstrom’s mall before getting lunch at a French Bistro.  Strengthened by our meal, we headed off to the Golden Gate Theater where I easily picked up our tickets at will-call.  As the musicians warmed up, we went down to peer into the orchestra pit and to take a closer look at the enormous maroon curtains over the stage.  Our anticipation was growing with each passing minute, so we both read and reread the program, grinned at each other and both thought how lucky we are.  The musical was much better than I expected.  It didn’t get great reviews in San Francisco.  There was lots of wonderful singing and energetic dancing.  I had been told it was a gangster story, but it was much more a coming of age story, about family,  told with song and dance about life in the Bronx in the 60’s.  The final song (Erika’s favorite) was about the choices we make and the dealing with consequences of our choices.  It was a perfect musical and most special treat for a Gramma and a 12 year old granddaughter.  Another special time was making rolled sugar cookies with Sonja.  At 9, she’s quite proficient and meticulous in the kitchen.  I let her take the lead and I was the Sous chef.  She rolled the dough perfectly and decorated the cookies with great patience and creativity.  What a lucky Gramma I am and what happy times I’m enjoying with my family here for the holidays

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