Babymoon

It's hard to explain the residency existence to people who aren't living it. Life is unpredictable, although overly scheduled, and family time is limited. We do our best to make the most of the time we get, but it always leaves us desperately wanting more. The hope lies in that it is a season and this season will end.

We scheduled a little "babymoon" for a week after Christmas and went to an Airbnb in Staunton, Virginia. It was such a perfect place for a little get-a-way. Only two hours away from home, it's a great town with charm, a thriving downtown, a world-renowned theater, and plenty of good restaurants. Although we'd normally be up for more adventure and activity, the fact that I was 34 weeks meant that this wasn't really an option for us.

Jim organized the entire trip, which was really special.

Our first night there we went to the American Shakespeare Center for a production of The Importance of Being Earnest. The actors are so very talented and the whole atmosphere is incredibly enjoyable. Plus, it's such a fun play. I love that Jim enjoys live productions and music. It's fun to have a partner who climbs mountains with you, but also is content to enjoy a night of theater, while holding hands.

The next morning our hosts laid out the red carpet for us with a delicious breakfast! They were stellar hosts and really good cooks. I have yet to try it, but included on this plate were brussels sprout shavings that were out of this world. Kind of like hashbrowns, but green. YUM!

We went to a spa for massages. I've had a few massages, but this was the best one EVER. It was Jim's first massage and I don't think he'll be satisfied with anyone else. She targeted the knots and went for them. I've never seen Jim so transformed and relaxed as he was after he came out. As a pregnant lady I was a little concerned that she would take it easy on me, but it was fantastic and just what I needed.

We spent the rest of that day exploring the shops, eating gelato and meals, and enjoying each other's company. Much-needed. 

Jim particularly enjoyed the Staunton Olive Oil Company.
You could taste as many olive oils and balsamic vinegars as you wanted, with bread.
It was really fun (although I tried a few too many and had to sit down for a bit!).

It's not often that Jim asks me to take his picture.
But when the man finds an ax like this, he needs a picture.

The next day we, again, had an amazing breakfast before it was time to hit the road and head home.

 We took the scenic route and stopped in Lexington for some lunch, before returning to our dear boy. He had stayed with Aunt Christine for the weekend- we are so very grateful for this wonderful gift! She did a wonderful job with him.

The next morning, we woke up to find our first snow on the ground!!

 Ian was pretty excited!! He's definitely our child.

Having a weekend away as a couple was huge for us. It was the first time we've ever done it since having the parent status and it won't be our last. It may be a little while before we can do it again (what with baby #2 arriving soon), but we plan to make it a priority when the time comes again.

Thanks, Hon, for planning this trip! It meant so very much to me.

Since returning he's had to work night shifts almost every day... back to reality. So glad we had that time.