A Dash of Chicago in the UK
Ah, this week was a delightful mix of accents and reunions, as my cousin’s daughter, Elle, paid us a visit from the Windy City itself—Chicago. It’s been ages since her last trip to the UK, and we tried to pin down exactly when that was. After much deliberation, the closest we could recall was the time her entire family came over and stayed at the Cresta Court Hotel in Altrincham. We reckoned it must have been a good six or seven years ago!
A Whirlwind Tour of Wales
Elle didn’t come alone; she was accompanied by her dad and his wife, making a bit of a family tour out of it. They spent the first part of their week soaking in the sights of Wales. Judging by the photos and the enthusiastic chatter, it seemed like they had a smashing time visiting all the local attractions. From ancient castles to scenic landscapes, it looked like they made the most of their Welsh adventure.
Family Catch-up and Nostalgia
Come Friday, Elle had the chance to visit her grandmother, my lovely aunty Jilla. We all gathered at my cousin Sharon’s place for a catch-up. Sharon, being the gracious host she is, laid out a delightful spread for lunch. It was a charming, informal affair with the kids lounging around and the adults engaged in lively conversations. We swapped stories, laughed about old family tales, and reminisced about the good ol’ days. It was one of those heartwarming moments that remind you how special family is, even if separated by an ocean.
An Unexpected Extension
Now, here’s where the trip took an unexpected turn. Elle was supposed to fly back to Chicago at 09:30 this morning. However, after a series of delays that would test anyone’s patience, her flight was eventually cancelled. The airline kindly put them up in a hotel for the day, giving Elle an extra 24 hours on this side of the pond. It wasn’t part of the plan, but hey, who wouldn’t want another day in the UK?
Meanwhile, back in Chicago, my cousin Julie was eagerly awaiting Elle’s return. No need to fret, Julie! Elle’s having a fabulous time, and I’m sure she’ll come back with loads of stories and memories to share with everyone stateside. From the sounds of it, this visit was a perfect blend of sightseeing, family bonding, and a touch of unexpected adventure.
