Catching Up....

So, it's been awhile since I've posted and it's been about 2 1/2 weeks since Daddy left. Aidan and I have been keeping very busy to help pass the time, but unfortunately, we've both come down with a nasty cold. I feel worse for him. Poor kid doesn't know how to blow his nose, so of course he's congested all the time. Luckily, he's actually taking a liking to having his nose rinsed with Saline and suctioned out... bizarre! But at least it helps him before bed time! Monday night was rough for both of us, as he woke up several times in the night coughing, causing him to vomit twice and he ended up "sleeping" with me in my bed. HA HA... He finally dozed around 3 am, but I was so anxious listening to him breathe, that I barely slept a wink. It's gotten a little bit better, but of course, now I'm enjoying the cold's symptoms and trying to keep up with Aidan's endless energy!

So to catch everyone up, before Andy left, we had a great trip to Florida to visit our families and take some time to enjoy each other! Aidan enjoyed 4 great days with "Gramma" and "Granddad" in Tampa which allowed Andy and I to relax for a few days. The Pates hosted a phenomenal cook out at Fort Desoto Park to celebrate Andy and wish him well. Both of our families came and it was great to spend some time with everyone! We returned on Thursday to Virginia and went downtown Friday for Andy's "final farewell" from the CG Legislative staff. Saturday I took Andy out to breakfast and then to get a 3D ultrasound of our little princess (see photo.)



We came home to a wonderful surprise party. I had set it up with some dear friends of ours in the area and they did an amazing job getting the food, decorating and getting everyone into place. Luckily, Andy didn't have a CLUE about it and loved being able to see so many friends before his departure. His best friend from High School and his wife even drove down from Pennsylvania to spend a few hours with us. It was a wonderful way to show Andy how much we appreciate him during such a sad time.

Monday, April 13th we went in for my 28 week Doctor's appointment. Always a fun one, because I have to do the glucose test, but also do my Rhogam testing and shot, as well. Basically I'm a human pin cushion for a few hours. Guess it's good preparation for the birth! :) I've learned that pregnancy was a way to get me over my fear of throwing up and having a needle stuck in my vein! Still not enjoyable, but at least I am much more calm now! :)

After the appointment we went on our long drive south to Norfolk. We stopped for a fun lunch and trip to the Dollar store and ended up at the Renaissance Hotel. Andy took Aidan swimming in the indoor pool and we had a fun "Family Picnic" in our room with room service! Aidan did better than expected sleeping in a new place. We had breakfast downstairs and sent daddy to his "check in/briefing" meeting and waited for him in our room. We were able to get a quick lunch with him, but had to say our goodbyes pretty quickly before his bus left. It was a rainy drive home, but Aidan did fairly well and I had several wonderful phone calls from family and friends to help pass the time.

Aidan and I have been busy almost everyday. He's finally showing inclination to walk, taking anywhere from 3-7 steps at a time and standing and dancing on his own. Our friends here have been so wonderful to us. It's definitely hard, and I question at times whether I should have gone to Florida to be closer to family and help. I know we'll be ok, and the communication I have had with Andy is so rejuvenating. He is very positive, enjoying his job and telling us to be proud of the great things they are doing. I know time will pass quickly as we both keep busy. Please keep Andy in your prayers. We are hoping that a trip home for the birth of our little girl is possible. Nothing can be guaranteed of course! I'll try to be better about update frequency.



Thank you to all of you for being such wonderful friends and family. Please come visit! We'd love to have the company!