Since the day Marek was born, my mom has anxiously awaited her first visit with her first grandchild. Originally she asked if I wanted her to come while we were still in the hospital, but I asked her to wait until we were home so we could all enjoy Marek together. Once we discharged from the hospital, she immediately booked a flight and began talking about her first weekend with her grandbaby. For anyone who does not know my mom, she is the feistiest lady. When I was pregnant she began looking at what Marek will call her. She felt that "grandma" sounded too old, so she played with many other options including her favorite, "grandmalicious." Yes...grandmalicious. Those of you that know Denise are probably laughing and nodding. I mean, come on, with those nails and stilettos "grandmalicious" is the only true option!
My mom and Chris finally arrived in Florida late December 3rd. Early on the 4th they drove up to Alabama and came straight to the house. Gregg and I had to attend church and RCIA for our Rite of Acceptance, but she didn't seem to mind "babysitting" Marek for a few hours. Honestly, I think she was just excited to have Marek all to herself! That night we went out to eat and Marek had his first outing to a restaurant. We went to the local Hibachi restaurant and I was amazed with how well Marek did with all the hustle and bustle. We ate, visited, and caught up with each other. My mom asked Gregg all about flight school and we were able to hear about McHenry life and her new job. Once we returned home we all enjoyed a glass of wine, Michael Buble's Christmas CD, and "Christmas". Marek snoozed away as we all opened presents, laughed, and enjoyed some holiday spirit.
First trip out!
Early Christmas celebrations
Monday morning we woke up and got the house cleaned a bit before my mom and Chris came over again. As it was our last full day together, we wanted to make the most of our time! We packed up and headed to the Aviation Museum. Gregg took over as tour guide and showed my mom and Chris the helicopters and explained some of the history behind Army Aviation. We even tried out our hand in a cockpit! Marek was so excited he fell asleep..but did stay still for a few photos!
After the museum we headed to lunch and then back home so Gregg could get ready for night flightline. Mom, Chris and I spent some time together at home before a dinner out at the Mexican restaurant. Gregg came home early and was able to spend some time relaxing before bed.
Tuesday morning mom and Chris came to say their goodbyes. Marek immediately cuddled up to her and fell asleep. He was obviously completely in love with his grandmalicious!
It felt so good to have my mom in town and I felt blessed to have my mom and Chris here for a visit. This was one of the moments I truly hate being away from family. I know we will not have the opportunity to pack up and drive down the road to see grandma, so we have to make the most of the time we spend together, no matter how little it may be.
