Andrew called me early this morning. He sounded more cheerful. I was careful not to instill anxiety. I asked him how his evening was last night. He told me it was better. He said that he appreciates all I have done for him, but I don't need to worry. He's got this!
This is a new level. My son reassuring me. I like it!
The Assistant to the Supervisor of Intake at Coffee Creek Corrections visited him yesterday. They had a long chat about how he's doing and what he can expect. She told him that other inmates are not supposed to be "paperchecking" - yes, that's a thing! When inmates ask to see your papers. Apparently they are checking to make sure you are not a sex offender. Word is, that sex offenders get beat up in prison.
Andrew still does not have his papers. But she reassured him that most of the inmates there do not have their papers. She said people say things. They aren't necessarily true.
I get it. I need to just listen to him. And keep him positive.
I asked him if he had eaten breakfast yet. He said he did, but he's not much of a breakfast person. Today they had breakfast sandwiches.
"Do they give you coffee?" I asked.
"No, some kind of tea".
"But we had fajitas for dinner last night. They were pretty good!"
His tone of voice sounded happier.
"Mom, a week ago today we were sitting at Biscuits Cafe. Having our last breakfast together. Time is flying!" he said.
Indeed it is! I was dreading December 5th, his sentencing date. And here we are already, a week later. He told me he was going to work out. They have equipment there. And then he could take a shower. He told me they can take showers anytime they are "out walking". Which means out of their cells. They get about 4 hours of out time a day.
They also have clothing exchange every few days. This is where they turn in their dirty clothes and get clean clothes.
After he works out and showers, he usually grabs a book off the shelf before he goes into his cell. He is reading a mystery now. He told me he is starting to feel calmer. Calm enough to focus on a book.
"They also have a bunch of tv's turned to different channels", he informed me.
I'm glad he's working out and reading instead of just staring blankly at a screen.
He's got about 3 more weeks at Coffee Creek before he is transferred to another facility. Hopefully close by so we can visit regularly. But more importantly, a safe environment. And one with abundant programs, classes and opportunities to work and gain job skills.
I am feeling calmer today. I think asking him about his day keeps us both focused on the present.
Funny, I think about the words of advice I have given him. Words that have been echoed by friends and family:
"Keep your head up. Focus on the positive. Read. Pray. Exercise. Go to classes. Establish a routine. Take one day at a time."
I should follow my own advice!
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