Indiana

Mom, Loki, and I just returned from a week in Indiana, where I was raised. It was great seeing my family. Mom hadn't visited in over two years, and I did so only briefly last fall while my grandmother was ill. It was particularly nice for Loki to meet so many relatives, around whom he seemed to be instinctually relaxed.

Of course, this was Loki's first flight. The traveling went better than expected. We even had an extra empty seat on the flight back. But our time there was surprisingly tiring, as Loki did not sleep well.

Unfortunately, the health of my step-mother, who has been fighting cancer for several years, took a turn for the worse. We visited her at home several times, and Loki's presence cheered her up.

Also, while we were there, Loki had his 1 + 1/2 year birthday.

In the department of small things making big differences: We must give Loki a shot of food or water about every 10 to 15 minutes from 7 AM to midnight. We often forget for a few extra minutes, which can quickly add up over the course of a day. I began to ask around for an automatic adjustable pocket timer: press a single button, and X minutes later, you are reminded. Sure enough, Marcey (my friend from way-back-when) gave us her GymBoss, which does exactly this. It has made a surprising difference. Thanks!

We will have a large photo and video album soon. But for now, look what my mother (a/k/a Nana) dug up. This is me around age 15 months. Does this look like anyone else?

I even had the curls: