Surprises

Last night Emily, or "big E," called with a question about cookie dough.  After we talked about that, she mentioned a few things they're doing to prepare for my arrival and her return to work.  A couple of things caught me by surprise.  She's moving her computer, which had been easily accessible to anyone at the top of the stairs, into their bedroom so she can work from home with the door closed.  Her employer frowns on telecommuting with a baby in the house unless there's a caregiver also there.  So if she's in her room and I'm with the baby, it's apparently OK.  That sounds fine, but it leaves me with just my iPad to use during the day; I had assumed I'd be able to use her computer.  (Not that I plan to spend hours sitting at the keyboard, surfing websites or anything; I'm just accustomed to having access.  Typing on the tablet is not quite the same.)

Second, her mother-in-law may come for the baby's next appointment with the neurologist; she's a veterinarian, and her medical training helps her interpret doctor's comments and also come up with questions.  So that sounds fine, too, though a surprise to me.  If we knew for sure when she'd arrive I might be able to come home a couple of days early that week, instead of waiting for Friday night.  But she often does not commit in advance to a specific time, partly due to her work.  Do I want to be there while she is?  I'm uncertain.  I must admit I think I may be somewhat possessive of our joint grand baby!

With less than a week before I make the first trip, my to-do list seems to be expanding instead of shrinking.  It's true I've been able to check off some items, but new ones appear.  I've also been fighting a cold and sleeping poorly.  When I found myself wide awake at 3:30 this morning with the hymn "When We All Get to Heaven" running through my mind, I tried praying but couldn't focus well enough.  I'll just trust the Holy Spirit understood my needs (Romans 8:26).

A new beginning

In a few days I will begin a new odyssey, taking care of Evelyn, who will be known as "little e" or just e from now on.  I'm hoping there's some muscle memory, that things I used to do without much thought will come back to me.  Learning what to watch for, how to encourage and stimulate, how to live in someone else's home, these may take time.  But I believe I'm up to the task, especially with the support of family and friends like you.

I expect to post frequently, perhaps several times a week.  So if you want to know how the adventure is going, check out this blog!