We made it!

Keaton and I survived our first trip on commercial airlines without Casey. Keaton was so excited, and really listened well. Our first flight was so early, I decided to keep his diaper on so we didn't have any accidents in the one and only carseat. Speaking of the seat, I wasn't able to check it at the gate, so I had to drag it around Midway with me the whole time we were there. We took it slow and steady, and Keaton did great. When we were boarding the plane, a nice man offered to carry it for me, and he waited to make sure I got it installed on the plane. The man sitting next to us helped keep Keaton preoccupied while I set it up. We met some really nice people, and I was very grateful for all the help.

Keith met us at MCI, and we took a small plane back to Billard. Keaton got to sit in the co-pilot seat, which he LOVED. At one point he was apparently falling asleep, so Keith took him out and let him sit on his lap. I was apprehensive at first as I know how much Keaton likes to push buttons (especially red ones), but I relaxed and figured if he pushed a 'bad' button, I would know because the plane would act accordingly. Luckily he behaved himself... as far as I know. ;)


It was a fun a short trip home. We got quality family time, and it felt like we really got to relax and enjoy it. It wasn't jam-packed with events, which was nice. Keaton didn't sleep very well most of the time, so I was kind of a zombie in the mornings. Thank goodness for De's Keurig and Gloria Jean's Butter Toffee coffee... and the nap I took every day.

The weather was really hot, so we spent most of our time inside. Keaton enjoyed playing with Yuki, Doc, and Harley. My cousins Christy and Shayne have two dogs named Emma and Sophie that Keaton enjoyed, too. Sophie even kissed his owies when he fell down at their house. He really enjoyed cuddling with her and I look forward to the day when Riese will cuddle instead of bite!

Keaton got to go in a helicopter ride with Keith, which he absolutely loved, of course. He still talks about it. His cousin Miles got to go, too. In all, we had fun and I think even though it was a short trip, it was definitely worth it. Now we are ready for Casey to be home so we can get back to 'normal' until he leaves again.

I guess that's about it for now. Riese stayed one more night at the vet so we could get a decent night of sleep. Besides the fact that it took me the better part of an hour to get Keaton to bed last night, we both slept over 8 hours. I'll take whatever I can get!

Love,

Ash