After a very successful trip to the States in August, Matt and I already had plans in the works to come back home in October. We were getting word that a handful of people were wanting to come out to Italy in September to visit with us. Matt, who was already homesick for America, knew he wouldn't be able to take the time off to accommodate 3 visits in one month. We decided early on that we will make the trip home, this way everyone who hasn't met Jason and can't make it across the pond will be able to love on him.
The morning came to drive to Rome, park the car and get our tickets. We had booked Jason as a Lap seat but prayed for an empty seat between Matt and I so we could bring Jason's car seat on board and free up our laps. The gate agent was kind enough to block the empty seat between us so no one could book that seat last minute, thankfully there were plenty of open seats. We flew the 10 hour flight to Charlotte, NC had a layover and then off to Norfolk. Jason did great! he got antsy the last flight, but can you blame him?
Dad picked us up, took us home and then back to the airport the following morning. We flew into Chicago and were pleasantly pleased with a warm welcome from my Aunt Julie who happened to be in town. She covered Jason in kisses while Matt and I grabbed our luggage. Jason was happy as can be to meet his Aunt Julie! Matt's dad, Bumpa, picked us up and got to meet his grandbaby for the first time. We stopped for lunch and Bumpa couldn't stop staring and smiling at baby boy.
We spent 3 very short days in Illinois- fortunately we flew which saved us major travel time. Over the three days Jason got to hang out with his Uncle Luke who bought him a very cool Blackhawks Jersey. Matt's mom, Nana came running upstairs to meet Jason and took over his wardrobe change. She was in Nana Heaven! Nana hung out for the night and got in as much cuddle time as possible. She knows very well they don't stay little for long, so she soaked up the little time they had together.
Jason was showered in gifts, ranging from a horse onsie from Mia, Sam, Rachel and Aaron, to a balloon and Blackhawks hat from Uncle Phil, Sue, Maddie and Sam. By the way- he loved his first balloon! He bounced it, swatted it and just loved to stare at it. It was pure entertainment for everyone. Almost everyone from Matt's side of the family was able to come and spend time snuggling and loving on Jason. He finally got to meet his cousins Devin and Skyelar, who adore him.
Much of our time was spent staying low key, enjoying to company of family, snapping pictures. The time in Illinois went by fast and we had to say "see you later" with tears in our eyes. Hopefully we will be flooded with Illinois house guests when we buy a house as soon as we transfer to our next duty station.
Flight number 4 of this entire trip was back to Virginia. Dad picked us up again, and while he waited for us to get our luggage he played with Jason. The one thing I think my dad loves more than being a dad, is being a grand-daddy! He is the happiest person on this planet when he talks to Jason. Matt and I settled in quickly at dad's house. We have a routine down now. My Aunt Mary invited us over for dinner which was nice. We weren't ready to dive into fast food, especially since Matt had his weigh in as soon as we got back to Italy. It was another night of just family, filled with laughter and happiness. While we were back in Virginia Beach, we checked out a couple of neighborhoods that we may have interest in when it comes down to buying a house in the near future.
Dad and his neighbor Susie offered to watch baby J for us one night so we could go on a date. It was much needed to get some "just us" time. I feel I did very well leaving baby boy so I could go on a date with Matt. Neither of us called or texted to see how he was doing, and I didn't feel anxious about the situation at all. I know if they need me, they know how to reach me. As expected Jason was happy and in one piece when we returned home.
Dad had a cookout, and invited a bunch of friends to come over, meet Jason and hang out. It was a very nice turn out. Uncle Chase was holding Jason and having a "brewski" when Jason grabbed hold of his bottle and started to gnaw on it. It was kinda precious and funny.
As usual, the time flew by and we were boarding our plane to go back to Italy. Again, Jason did exceptionally well and slept the entire flight back. So to the lady who was sitting beside me and got up and moved... Thank you for the elbow room. Hope the people behind you didn't kick your seat too much, because Jason was an angel. As my mom says, if a cranky child is the worse thing on a flight- it's a good day! AMEN
Just the other morning I cut up a bunch of strawberries and gave them to Jason- he wouldn't take them off of a spoon, nor does he like to bite the strawberry itself. So in the mesh bag they went. He absolutely loves strawberries. So much, I had to give him seconds. The first time I gave Jason strawberries I was a nervous wreck, because there is a high rate for allergies with them. But He has not shown any signs of food related allergies. 
He loves lima beans, steak, bread (which he was chewing on at a restaurant the other night- making a slobbery mess out of the bread), strawberries, bananas, and even cheddar brats.
