It dawned on me last night that I won’t get to see Sue for the next ten days, except for an hour or two. Things just lined-up that way with our schedules.
This week she is on business travel in New York City. She left in the middle of the night (3:30am) and won’t be home until very late Thursday (close to midnight). I’ll be up and driving to Wheeling, West Virginia on Friday to get there by ten o’clock for a court-ordered civil trial procedure. I expect this will take most of the day. When done, I’ll swing by Morgantown to spend Saturday with Kari. This I am really, really, really, looking forward to doing. No sooner than when I get home on Sunday, Sue will be heading out again for another three days of business travel.
Make no mistake, this is much tougher on Sue. For one, it is her that is away from her children (notice I didn’t say me too?). Also, think about this, she opts to leave in the middle of the night — instead of the evening before — so that she can spend a few extra hours with Ryan. The same happens on the backend too. Instead of coming home on Friday she makes a late commute so she again gets a little more time with Ryan. Yes, this is just another example of what makes her an unstoppable mom. The thing is, this is nothing new. She’s been doing it all along.
On a more fun note, Sue drove the adapted-van (donated by Koons Automotive) for the first time on Saturday evening. I had to laugh when she was confused by not needing a key to start the engine. If truth be told, I did the same thing (since our other cars are at least ten years old). I taught her how to secure Ryan’s wheelchair with the tie-down straps and off we went on official “Ryan Business” like picking up prescriptions and depositing checks; to cover some hefty expenses that must be paid this week. Who says you can’t mix business with pleasure?

Duke cuddled with Ryan.
After getting home, Ryan was settled into bed for the night. Before the house was quieted and darkened, Duke snuggled-up to Ryan. Actually, it took some time to get Duke in this position. He just wouldn’t leave Ryan alone!
He was insistent on licking his face, like he was trying to get him to wake up. It was interesting to see how both were reacting.
Ahhhh, a boy and his dog!
What I found intriguing is how well Ryan rested that night. One of his best nights since he was attacked. He seemed peaceful and (dare I say) content when I checked in on him throughout the night. It took everything in me not to just start hugging him.
He needs his rest.
Duke sleeping with Ryan: 🙂
Is it possible that Duke could cuddle with Ryan……..every night? I’m just sayin’ You will all continue to be in my thougths and prayers as you wend your way thru this week…..safe travels. Love, Annie
Glad to hear Ryan is resting so well. I believe his body has strengthened and he is continually improving… especially from watching the recent video. So good to read successes and we pray for them to keep on coming.
Good luck in Wheeling.
ARE THE DOGS IN THE HOUSE? Woof Woof!
Duke just might have a career ahead as a therapy dog! So much joy in the unspoken love and devotion of a pet! Adorable picture! Safe travels this week for you guys.
Sue is like the energizer bunny – nothing short of remarkable!!! Both of you are 🙂 Prayers for safe travels throughout the week.
love,
carla
Ken ,Great picture, Safe travelings to you and Sue ..Always with you both in spirit and hugs for Ryan 🙂
love Gail
Ken, I love your post today. You and Sue are such phenomenal parents — and you have equally phenomenal kids!! Praying everything will go smoothly this week for your whole family. We are with you in our spirits. I can only imagine how much Sue misses Ryan when she is away from home. Wow, you get to see Kari this weekend!!! Fun times ahead for sure : ) Please give Ryan a big hug from me and tell him summer is just down the road.
Love, hugs, prayers and great hope!! Paula
There’s something to be said about the love of a pet..
Your family ROCKS!! Very sweet pic of Ryan and Duke!!
GREAT picture of Ryan and Duke!!!! Safe travels to Sue and you.
xoxoxo
🙂
How sweet, a boy and his dog. You’ll all be together again soon.
Separation is tough! We can relate.