It was March of 2020 when last we made the trek. We got home just in time for the nation to shut down due to Covid. For the next 14 months, we were essentially “hunkered” down hoping for the pandemic to end. Then we had a trip planned, but Covid struck close to home and the trip had to be cancelled.
Finally, after more than two years, we get to go see our grandson, and our son and his girlfriend, soon! It will be a whirlwind trip, just a few days, but it will be well worth it. Our plan is to make the most of the time we have available.
When last we saw him, he still kind of had the strunchie head of a newborn. He slept most of the time, but was a happy baby for the times he was awake. Not long after, he was in the hospital having open heart surgery. We are still thankful for all of the support from all of you during that trying time.
Now he is a very active toddler. When we FaceTime with him and his parents, he runs them ragged. Whether it is at the park, in the house, or the backyard, he is on the go. He is able to interact with us a bit now. His words are starting to form and a conversation of sorts can be had. Very exciting! I’m assuming we are going to get our workout in just playing and chasing after him.
I’m optimistic, and maybe a little wishful in my thinking, that he will recognize our voices and faces. We’ve had several video calls with him since the beginning. He even blows us kisses and says good-bye now. Can’t wait to give him a hug and kiss for real—I’ll try to restraint from “pinching” his cute little cheeks.
Of course, no grandparent can go visit without some presents. Since he is an avid reader already, he’ll get two books. One about Indiana and the other about dragons (I had to have this one when I saw it at Target). A friend had a Tupperware party recently, so he will also get one of those shape toys where you have to put plastic shapes into the little ball.
His final present is one he just had to have by virtue of our living in Indiana. No, not a Hoosiers or basketball anything! It is a cute little colorful shirt from the Indy 500 track. I stopped by after work to get one for him from the track itself. Can’t get more authentic than that. While there, I had a little daydream about him visiting sometime and taking him to the race itself. Maybe it will be both his and our first time to go ever.
As you can imagine, we are on Cloud Nine right now. With it being a short trip, unfortunately we won’t be able to see as many of our friends as we’d like. Happily, I’ve already let the hubby know we have to have one of our visits next year be during the Balloon Fiesta. I’d love to take my grandson to it to watch his reactions. Our youngest was only three when we first took them, so I know how fun it can be.
Have I said how excited I am to finally being able to go see him!
P.S.—Can’t wait to have some real Mexican food again too. Red chili, I’ve missed you!
Personal Reflections of a Middle-Aged Man 