Alone Again...

Everything is dark now. The fear set in this afternoon. What do we do? Where do we go? Luke's wailing echoes throughout the house, reinforcing the loneliness. Mindy lies on the bed, curled into a fetal position, crying. I remove my thumb from my mouth long enough to type these words. We are alone.

OK, things aren't that bad yet. Mom and Dad left this afternoon, and are in the air right now, returning back to the MD. They didn't look too distraught, but I think since Mom had a practice goodbye on Sunday that they were ready this time. I dropped them off at the airport just after noon (central time), and they should be home around 9 tonight (eastern time). It was a great two weeks, and they were a big help. I want to thank them again- this time publicly- for all their help and expertise. They have a track record of raising tremendously successful- and beautiful- children, so I relied on them a lot. So that makes a month and a half of continuous grandparent support, with both of our parents assisting over time. So now we're on our own...

It's a little scary on our own, but I feel very prepared (Mindy says she does too). I think I'll miss that third (or fourth) pair of hands to help us out, whether it's to run and grab a shower or whatever. But we'll make it. Both of our parents taught us lots, and I think we are ready to really take control...not that we weren't before, but you guys know what I mean. Luke seems indifferent so far, but once he realizes that he's stuck with just his mom and dad now, he may start to freak out a little.

So, here's more pictures. BTW, it's good to see that the comments are back. See, I told you I would fix it.


We came down and found Luke in Mom's suitcase...


They were trying to smuggle him through airport security...


Luckily we caught it just in time.


Mom's last few minutes with Luke...until she gets the shakes and buys a plane ticket back to Kansas


Luke appears to be smiling, but we all know what he's up to


At the airport...for good this time


That's the look of a full stomach


Inspired by Kobayashi, Mindy chooses hot dogs for lunch today. She just missed the record...


Luke, walking like an Egyptian

Happy 4th to everyone!