I’m sad to report that today Eugenio Soto, better known as grandpa, passed away at the age of ninety five. The below photo is of Evelyn and him dancing together, back on my first trip to Puerto Rico in 2002. He is singing his heart out.

We received the news at about four this afternoon, and it’s been pretty busy ever since. A quick search of airline tickets, a decision to leave today out of Houston, some packing of essentials, and by six we were on the road. (Since Austin is a smaller city, there are no direct flights to Puerto Rico. It was either a bunch of stupid layovers, or drive to Houston, about 3 hours away, and get a direct flight. We went with the direct flight. Her travel time is about 4 hours less, even including the drive!)

Got to Houston safe and sound at around 8:30, with no lines, no checked bags, and pre-checked in, so she was able to get through security in about 5 minutes. After saying our goodbyes I turned around and drove back home, arriving here in Austin around 11:45, with 320 new miles on the car. She’s on the plane now, and should be taking off shortly, arriving in San Juan at 5:30 AM local time.

A long afternoon, but I’m glad she is on her way to be with her Mom (her Dad is in Chicago right now, visiting, and he can’t get back to PR until Sunday or Monday). We’re not sure how long she’ll be in PR, but we’re thinking at least two weeks, probably more.