Chicago Unexpectedly

Us Rhynersons really like to shake things up on vacay. We usually miss things--Fred and I missed the big power outage in NYC while we were on our first big vacation together as a couple, we missed the crazy snow storm in December of 2009 while in Hawaii all together, we missed the earthquake and hurricane while we were in Alaska all together this summer... But this time we didn't miss a thing. On our way to San Diego, Dad had a mini stroke on the plane and we had to land in Chicago. It was a scheduled landing, so thankfully we didn't have to divert, but it was the scariest thing I've ever seen. Thankfully Fred was flying with us and there was another doctor on the plane. The American Airlines crew were wonderful and incredibly helpful. The staff at Resurrection hospital was truly amazing and kind and I must say that the people in Chicago are by far the nicest people I've come across. From the staff at the Springhills Suites by Marriot Chicago O'Hare to the taxi drivers, everyone was so accommodating and helpful.  My friend Stephanie and her new hubby live in Chicago and was a blessing. Liam has a bit of a crush on her.

To good news is that Dad is doing well and there is no permanent damage. It's a wake up call for us though as we made it through a full year before he had another stroke and yet he had one again. After a few day in Chicago, he insisted on continuing to San Diego to meet up with Caroline, John and Mailee and we had a good visit.

I post this as a reminder to everyone to slow down and remember to enjoy your family/friends. Even though we had the same scare last November, I never feel like I do enough or say enough... Hold your loved ones close to you. We are very lucky.

Here's a cute picture of Liam. We had no luggage, so we needed to get a few things. Liam was a little tired from the days "adventures."