Separation

Two nights ago I laid in bed by myself (CW is on nights in the CCU) and thought about medical marriages and the struggles that are all part of the package. The particular struggle that was on my mind that night was how friends come and go from your life as they move on to fellowships, private practices or faculty positions at other hospitals in other states. If they don't go seeking more training or an exciting opportunity in a new place, they will often return to their homes or closer to family because they are simply tired of feeling displaced and alienated from loved ones.

Even though these moves onward and upward make perfect sense it contributes to a reality that is constantly changing. My landscape is markedly different from year to year. And those years run from July to June not the January to December calendar that was my reality pre-CW. I practically hold my breath whenever anyone starts talking about interviews because that is the first step to leaving.

Speaking of leaving, tonight I will get on a plane and head to another state without my husband, dogs or child. This will be my first time away from Cooper overnight and right now I'm kind of melancholy about it. Of course, it's for a very good cause... Dana's Bachelorette Weekend!!!! I know once I start heading to the airport with the best friends a girl could have I will be fine. But kissing my baby goodbye this morning was hard... very hard.

Cooper is in good hands with Christopher's parents and I know all is well at 7444. I'm going to party it up and then spend all night Sunday lovin' on my babies... all of them.

April was... busy

April came and went like a flash like many months and included many exciting events. Our dear friends Nick and Meg (of nursery stripes glory) got married and bought a house. I turned 31. Cooper celebrated his first Easter. Cooper also got his first ear infection. A very busy month indeed...

We are all excited about May and the adventures is will bring. I am now the current President of the VHA which is CRAZY. It will be a busy year, but worth every minute for this group I love so much. Even though we have had a change in leadership at VUMC, I'm hopeful that the new administration will love and support this great group of spouses! Also, this month I will take my first trip away from home (and my Coopies) but Christopher's parents will be here to assist in his care. Other than that we will be planning for June's fun including Dana's Couples Shower, Cooper's Baptism, and Dana's wedding.

Below are some pictures. This weekend I will post Cooper's 5 month pics and updates.

This is Cooper with his Lovie. It's a blanket with a bunny head and arms attached to it. This was a gift from his Grandmama Wells for Easter. It's silk on the inside and he loves to cuddle with it when he's sleepy as you can see. He rubs it against his face and just drifts off. So cute... I stole the name Lovie from my friend Angela... but it's the perfect name because you can tell he loves it.

Cooper's first experience with rice cereal. He makes a funny face when it's put in his mouth, but after he swallows he kicks his legs like crazy as if he wants more. Who knows...

It's Grrrrreat!

My little lion after a bath.

Mommy and her lion cub.