A Big Step

Today I finally began the task I've been dreading....I began to convert Grant's bedroom for the new baby.  Initially I was planning to wait until Damon and Alexa are in Fresno for Christmas, but I thought-twice about that decision, as I was worried that doing it solo during the holidays could make it an even more difficult and emotional task.  I'm not even close to being done, but I was relieved to make the initial step today...this was a huge hurdle for me to overcome.

Alexa was in the playroom, on the other side of the house, and Alstott was snoozing on the couch when I first entered Grant's room.  However, within twenty seconds of me opening the door, both of them were suddenly at my side.  It was an odd sensation - - a rebirth of sorts, as Alexa opened the door to the Jack-and-Jill bathroom separating her bedroom and the baby's room - excited to be so close.  It was the first time in over a year that the door between their rooms was open, but by gauging Alexa's reaction, I could tell it was a very welcome change.

It was a huge comfort to have Alexa and Alstott in the room as I began to pack Grant's clothing and bedding.  Alstott curled up on the rain forest mat, where Granty spent a lot of tummy time, and Alexa played with Grant's stuffed animals.  They were both on their best behavior, as if they knew the significance of being in the room.

I am not ready to put Grant's items in the garage with the rest of our storage items, so I cleared out some space in the built-ins in the master bedroom for storing his clothes and bedding.  I never realized how many clothes that little guy had - many that he never wore.  I remember my brother commenting about Grant's extensive collection of St. Louis Cardinals clothes, and I had to smile as I realized that Grant's collection was far-more expansive than I ever realized....hoodies, onesies, caps, etc.  My brother would be proud (and jealous!)....

It's a tough mental change to transition the space from Grant's bedroom to Baby #3's room.  A part of me wants to leave Granty-esque elements in there as a tribute to him, but I have to remind myself that this is the new baby's room and not a memorial to Grant.  Over time I think this will become easier, especially when we finally meet the newest arrival in January.

One element that will remain in the room....a wooden "G" on the wall.  It's a perfect reminder and subtle tribute to our little guy.

Many good times were had in Granty's room....
and I'm sure we will have many more.