Freedom Fun

Ayden's overall indifference while he was in the hospital post-Fontan was unbearable. Having our son return to smiling, laughing, playing Ayden could not happen fast enough. Since Ayden's discharge on June 26th, he has grown and changed in remarkable and fabulous ways. He is experiencing the world anew, and he is enjoying the opportunities that come with his newfound freedom.

For instance, for past pediatrician appointments, our family would be holed away in a small room in order to protect Ayden from the germs found at the doctors' office. Pre-Fontan, Ayden had never really sat in a waiting room. Most of you are probably thinking, Well, that's an experience I could live without. However, for Ayden, being in the waiting room is thrilling, even fun. I mean, there are toys in most waiting rooms! You know... the toys all the kids touch with their snotty hands. So for Brogan's last pediatrician appointment on July 20th, Ayden got to hang out in the well-waiting area. He rearranged furniture, played with the toys, and rolled his trains on the tables, chairs, and floor. Super fun!

 

As a family, we are excited about the chance to see family and friends more often and in different contexts and locations. One of the first places we went was to Phil and Elise's house. Ayden had the best time playing with Alex (Max was at camp). He was so happy. We all loved getting to see more of their youngest son, Samuel. And Bryan and I began to feel like things were returning to "normal."

Buddies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buddies

 

A week ago, Ayden, Brogan, and I ventured to the Adventure Science Center to meet Diana and Jude. Ayden thought the place was awesome. He climbed all of the steps, played with the all of the toys, ran away a few times. I thought the experience was sort of a nightmare. I eventually stopped taking pictures because I just couldn't keep up. I had Brogan in the stroller in the beginning, but he got restless and wanted to be held (workout for me!). I couldn't balance helping Ayden do all of the activities, watch Ayden run from activity to activity, and keep Brogan from screaming in fear of the sights and sounds... and eventually because he was hungry. I decided it was a great place for a father-son day, not so great for a mama with two small children. Still, it was an hour or so of fantastic fun for Ayden; seeing him run around like all of the other children was good for me to see.

 

 

 

 

This past weekend we took the boys to their first Clemson Alumni Club event. Three of my former students chose Clemson, and we were welcoming them to the Tiger family. I enjoyed speaking with these students and their families, and I loved getting to show off the boys a little. We hope to take them to a football viewing party with the club in the fall... Go, Tigers! Congrats to Elizabeth, Wrenne, and Livvy!

 

 

Clearly, I am behind in my posts... more excitement to come!