A Day and a Half already

Lauren, our firstborn's wife, wanted to be at the airport by 5am, so I went to bed early, but couldn't sleep very well... Woke up before the alarm went off, and started cooking the bite sized quiches. Took a shower and got dressed, so that I could help with the sleepy little two and a half year old, our granddaughter. She was ready to get some more shut-eye on my shoulder, but we had to wake her up in order to have her sit on the potty.

Suitcases in the van, and on our way in the dark to the airport, we made it with plenty of time to spare. And thankfully, Alaska Airlines was not crowded. But sandwiched in between Delta and Air Trans, it was hard to tell. Two bags on rollers each, and Lauren carrying the heavy carseat, and the diaper bag loaded so heavy, the stroller was doing wheelies, we paraded across the parking lot into the terminal. After some minor reshuffling, and me, grannie, squirting apple juice on the baby, (note to self---sip some out of the juice box before giving it to the toddler!) they were off into the security lines. Barefoot, stuff in bins, I could no longer help. What a horrid way to say goodbye. Best to say goodbye at home because we have allowed the terrorists to dictate our goodbyes at airports now.

Home by 6am, as the sky was turning purple. Time to put away the toys, and start a box of stuff to mail them once they get an address up in Alaska.

Sad day. Sad day. I probably won't see Abby in person until she is almost six years old. Thank heavens for skype. Now it is GrandDad's turn. His flight home isn't until next Tuesday, so hopefully, he can help babysit some so Andy and Lauren can check out houses to rent.

I left a kiss on her forehead for you, GrandDad. I hope you find it there.

update: they made it! Sounds like Abby was glad to see her Daddy and GrandDad. And all their luggage. It is like fifty degrees cooler up there---better for wrestling with carseat, luggage, and stroller. Abby's new home for the next three years. Welcome to Alaska, Abby!