You Can Go Home Again

Me on Cozumel Island right before my trip

I have spent the better part of the last seven years dreading returning to my home town. It is the place of much happiness, but also unbelievable sadness. My mom is gone, dad too. Grandma died in 1995. Both my uncles and now my aunt have passed too. So much is due to the dreaded family disease, of which I was spared. It is a mixed blessing. Just the thought of Cincinnati brings back such bittersweet memories.

Mariemont Inn lobby

When I realized there was a good chance I wasn't going to see my niece Sarah unless I went to Cincinnati, I decided to take the plunge and go back to the place of my birth. I found an incredible place to stay, the Mariemont Inn, which made the visit very pleasant. 

Mariemont Inn lobby

I also realized what a beautiful city Cincinnati is, so steeped in hundreds of years in history. I enjoyed seeing my family again. Sometimes I stay away because the pain of leaving them again is not worth it. It is easier to stay here on Cozumel Island and pretend that I don't miss them. Seeing them almost made me realize how much I do miss everybody and wish we could see each other more often.

Mariemont Inn restored to 1923 standards

Amanda at Front Desk of the Mariemont Inn

I visited my parents' graves and tried to find Little Grandma's (that is the name my nieces gave my grandmother on my mom's side) grave. I was unsuccessful in finding it, but I will find it next time. I finally stopped to say a little prayer at my brother's grave. He died when he was 15. I still love you, Mike. I wrote a poem about you, remember?

My mom's grave stone

My dad's grave stone

Michael McDevitt 1960 to 1975

Believe it or not, I think there will be a next time in my very near future. I want my husband to return with me. I actually miss the place I was born and feel somewhat as if I have finally come full circle.