Visit to Ohio

About week ago, I returned back from a two-week trip to Ohio. It had only been 3 months since the last time we were in Ohio, but I needed to go to see my grandpa (my mom's father), who had been taken to the hospital just a week and a half earlier. In addition, it was my grandma's (my dad's mother) 80th birthday, so I wanted to be home to actually celebrate a birthday with my family. I arrived in Columbus on Wednesday, March 10.

The day after arriving in Columbus, Mom took the day off work so we could spend the day together. I got my hair cut, we went to lunch at Red Lobster, and we did a bit of errand running.

That Friday, Mom and I drove up to North Canton together to visit grandpa, who had been transferred to a nursing home earlier in the week. His condition had improved, and he seemed to be doing alright (considering). That evening I stayed that night and the following night at my grandma's house.

On Saturday, March 13, Grandma celebrated her 80th birthday. Most of her family was able to make it, and she was "so tickled" that everyone threw her a party.

Grandma and her birthday cake

Grandma's 80th birthday cake

My brother, Jason, and his girlfriend, Angela

Grandma, my dad and me

Grandma, me, and Grandma's sister, Aunt Margie

Grandma with her husband, Bob

Aunt Margie and Uncle Roger

The following day, I went to church with Bob and Grandma, then headed over to the nursing home to spend time with Grandpa that afternoon. He seemed to be in good spirits and was looking forward to finding out whether or not he would be able to return home later in the week. My aunt Linda treated me to Olive Garden for supper, then I drove back to Columbus.

The next few days, were nice and relaxing. I did a bit of shopping, went to lunch twice with my dad and tried to go through "stuff" of mine in the bedroom. One evening Norm came home with a dozen pink roses for me! I couldn't believe it. And for no reason, either. Here is Alley modeling my roses.

Thursday afternoon, I went over to the house of a friend, who I haven't seen in at least 7 years. Amanda "White" Dickman and I met in 6th grade science class and had been friends through freshman year of college, but lost touch for no apparent reason. Since then she has gotten married to her husband Steve and has to gorgeous children, Emma (4) and Owen (1.5).

Grandpa was discharged from the nursing home the following Saturday. We drove up to North Canton to see him and celebrate my birthday...together! In the past years, since I've been living abroad, my family would get together to celebrate my birthday, order a Johnny's cake which is the best-ever birthday cake and sing me Happy Birthday... all without me actually physically being there.
Norm, Mom and I had lunch with Lisa, my step-sister, on Sunday. She is doing seemingly well, despite her health and busy-life. Overall, this was a very special trip home... such a blessing. I enjoyed so much time with my family, but of course, missed Jeff and wished he could have been there with me.

Upon my return home (in Gloucester) there was a beautiful bouquet of tulips from Jeff awaiting my arrival. Thank you, Baby!