Tuesday, January 26, 2021: Release Day!

 My phone rang at 7:30 a.m. this morning.  I jolted up, wide awake. It was a video call. I half expected it to be Taylor, asking if I would come upstairs and hang out with Grace. Grace is an early riser. Taylor is very pregnant and is happy to let me take over early mornings.

I groaned. But when I reached for my phone, I saw Julia's name. And instantly I knew! 

Andrew was due to be released this morning at 6:30 a.m.

I turned on my lamp and answered the phone. And there was my son on the screen. He had a face mask on.

"Hi Mom!" he said cheerily.

"You're out!" I squealed.

"Yup, I got out at 6:30 a.m." He said.  He told me Julia, and Baby Andrew were with him at Walmart.

He pointed the phone at Baby Andrew. He was sitting up in the shopping cart. He had a big gtin on his face.

I think we all will have big grins on our faces for a long time.

13 months.  Done.

Time for the next chapter of our lives.

So happy!

Day 320, Sunday: 100 More Days

 I didn't get to talk to Andrew today. Ben was flying into Portland.

Day 53:

I am so excited! I discovered an organization that sends free books to inmates.

I am filling out the form right now.

Day 52:

I'm at the library. It is cold and raining outside. I am going to the gym afterwards. I just missed Andrew's phone call. I hope he calls back.

Julia sent Taylor and I an updated picture of  Baby AJ. He is smiling and so cute and plump! I can't wait for Andrew to see him!

I hope he calls back. Last night he told me he is finally getting into the Dean Koontz book I sent him. The Silent Corner. We had a nice discussion. He should be getting the Michael Vey book this week.

Day 51: Rest in Peace Kobe and Gigi

I just heard sad news. Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash this morning. My heart is breaking.  He was a well loved NBA player. I know my brother adored him. I think Andrew did too. I haven't talked to Andrew yet today, but messaged Julia and Taylor to tell him about Kobe when he calls. I imagine he already knows. The guys in the prison, I am sure were also Kobe Bryant fans.

So sad. Andrew may be in prison, but he is alive and has the rest of his life ahead of him. Kobe was only 41 years old.

I spoke to Andrew after I heard about Kobe. He told me the whole prison is sad. I also learned that everyone else on the helicopter died. Including Kobe's 13 year-old daughter Gianna.

Rest in peace.

Day 50: A Visit!

I got a text message from Julia this morning. She said she was going to visit Andrew!

My heart leapt for joy!

Later, she told me that had a wonderful visit. Very casual. They got to hug, kiss and hold hands.

I can't wait for my approval so I can go visit. But I am especially looking forward to hearing about Baby AJ's visit!

Also, we were able to raise $250 for shoes and a tv for Andrew.

Day 50 is a good day!

Day 49: Depression

Andrew sounded down.  I was worried. I sent him a whole bunch of inspirational quotes and bible verses.  Later on that evening he called my daughter.  He told her that I was being annoying!

So now when we talk, I call myself the AM (Annoying Mom)

He told me later he was just joking.

"But seriously, Mom",  he said in a serious voice. "I'm in prison. Am I supposed to be happy?"

LOL It is nice to hear he has a sense of humor!