Ky's Vacation

Another first with Ky; a trip out of the country with two of our grandchildren.  Our 26^th Anniversary is tomorrow and I love it that we are still experiencing many “firsts” together.

Travelling with Ky has always been a joyful, relaxing time.  Although we approach every situation completely differently, we rely on each other and share common goals when vacationing – relax, relax, relax!  So, we knew going in that this vacation was going to be very different – the goal this time was ~ witness Raymond and Kaitlyn respond to travelling and keep them safe and as comfy as possible in the process.

This piece is about Ky – through my eyes obviously.  If I’m lucky, she may decide to comment if I’ve gotten any of it wrong….

I chose this photo because it captures Ky’s commitment to the planning and organizing of our trip.  From the beginning – it’s been her vision.  Lucky for me I’m part of it ~

Since Raymond was born, Ky’s experience of parenting has deepened and changed.  She has embraced the role of grandmother with serious gusto!  She tells me there is nothing sweeter than hearing any of the grandchildren call “Grandma” and look to her for all the things they have learned to appreciate about Momma!

Twice Ky made time in her busy work schedule to go and meet with our travel agent to secure plans and make all the arrangements.  Ky raised many questions that would never have occurred to me.  She thoroughly reviewed the itineraries and double checked all our requests.  She endured the always occurring question; “and whose biological grandchildren are they??” with patience and tolerance.  She was on line countless times before our departure to make sure she didn’t miss anything that may be available to us that would enhance Raymond and Kaitlyn’s experience.  I loved watching her.  And I also appreciated all the time and effort because it’s not what I like to do, but it’s so important when you’re travelling ~ especially with kids.

Ky did all the driving.  She adjusted the kid’s car seats and fixed them when something screwed up and the seat belts were too tight.  She answered every single question Raymond and Kaitlyn had on the trip.  Never did she loose her patience.  She carried Kaitlyn countless times and often pulled two tag alongs at the same time!  (We went with carry-on luggage only and it worked perfectly for us.)

When I was frazzled or overwhelmed, which happened more than once, Ky’s grounded, calm approached was a comfort.  She stepped in at just the right times.  She allowed me to step in once or twice as well and I sincerely appreciated that she acquiesced.

A migraine showed up on the third night of our trip. L  In spite of this, we maintained our scheduled – onward to Hollywood Studios, Buzz Lightyear, and Momma Melrose Italian Eatery!   Ky took advantage of nap time this day and when she got up, thankfully the migraine had cleared.

I think Ky took the most pleasure from watching Raymond and Kaitlyn up close, for six straight days.  The highs and lows, excitement and chaos you can imagine any 3 and 5 year old may go through when vacationing.  She loves witnessing their interactions and observing their differences.  It fun to watch Mike and Kim show up in living color through the actions and gestures of these two.  Ky has always been amazed by this phenomena. 

I think Ky has a soft spot for Kaitlyn.  That’s not to say the love is deeper than her love of Raymond, but Ky sees Kaitlyn’s soul in way that elicits empathy.  Ky understands when Kaitlyn feels something unjust has occurred and she must demand fair and equal treatment.  Ky feels Kaitlyn’s pain when she’s not able to articulate herself well enough to be fully understood.  When Kaitlyn cries and big tears slide down her cheeks, Ky’s heart weeps.  Ky melts when Kaitlyn smiles up at her and says, “Gramma….”. 

Ky advocates on a regular basis for the kids’ “wants”.  She’s quick to give in and always willing to compromise.  They know it and they love that about her. 

Ky stands back and lets the kids “try” and “do” for themselves, always at the ready to jump in if they need help, but patient to wait if they don’t.

Ky’s pride in being Raymond and Kaitlyn’s Momma bursts her chest when strangers appreciate the two of them, or when either of them accomplish something she deems as incredible.  (Such as Raymond reading the airport “you are here” maps, or remembering our path from the Detroit airport when he only walked it once.)

Ky expressed her gratitude for my contributions to our trip – the packing and collection of all things we would need – including exactly the right amount of wet ones for noses, hands and faces!  I see her appreciation of my interactions with them routinely.  When we all came home soaking wet on Hollywood Studio day, she loved that I had taken Raymond on the cars even though it was pouring.  She thinks I’m a dedicated Momma.   I like that.

Happy Anniversary Ky.  Thank you for being the best Momma!  Our kids are so lucky we have you and our grandkids ~ completely blessed.