The Gift of a Normal Weekend in Unpredictable Times

This weekend was truly special, we got given the opportunity to spend the weekend away from the hospital on 'home leave'. Although it wasn't quite home, Eira stayed with us at the Ronald Mcdonald House, and despite being just across the road, it felt like a million miles away from the hospital ward.

It was both a test for us as parents, and for Eira. This weekend was the first time in 9 weeks that we have not had any medical support with us, or very close by, and it felt like we were parents again, given full control to look after Eira. With a combination of medications, and feeds via the pump, the schedule was in place and our plans did, and will now always revolve around that. We had all the confidence in drawing the medications, setting up the feed, and ensuring Eira had everything she needed, even her now standard 4 food pouches a day.

Saturday was the big day, after Eira had the best sleep the night before, in her own bed, in-between ours, and for the first time in weeks, she even had a 'lie in'. The weather wasn't perfect but we had a few options, one was to venture to Cardiff Bay for a walk, but the wind was rather strong so we opted out of that one. Instead, we went over to Leckwith and had our first trip to Costco. Before that, and to ensure we were all well fed, we had a Nandos. Being very apprehensive about the noise levels in both these places, we were very unsure how Eira would react and if she would be settled enough to stay. She was so settled amongst the hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant that she even fell asleep as we waited for our food! As soon as our food arrived, and Eira sensed the smell, her lips were clapping and she wanted something to eat too (nothing new there). We were both able to enjoy our meals without the need to rush, and even had time for ice cream. Eira absolutely smashed it, and this made us feel a little more relaxed about venturing into a very busy and crowded Costco.

This was louder, with very different noises to Nandos, and whilst enjoying her stomach being filled with milk, Eira took it all in, the flickering lights, the sounds of people talking (and shouting) and the general busyness that there was. As we started off with great apprehension, thinking we would need to leave shortly after entering as Eira wouldn't cope, we were wrong. What turned into a very leisurely stroll around, and what could easily have turned into a spending spree of unnecessary purchases, was an experience in itself, and once again, Eira smashed it.

After a busy day, Eira was asleep before 9pm, and slept right through until 9:30am on Sunday. She must have enjoyed! Sunday was a new day, and we had planned to visit Ty Hafan for their legendary Sunday lunch, something we have definitely missed. Driving back there certainly brought things back, and a welcome banner and big smiles were waiting for us, we definitely felt like we were part of the family. After a lovely Sunday lunch, we went for a walk around the grounds, and even met up with our friends Jack & Amanda.

All in all, a weekend that was definitely needed, and very well enjoyed all round. Next stop....