Edgewood is just as pictured on website video. Wood and slate and lots of light, surrounded by cedars and evergreens. The bedrooms look like Elkridge – blonde oak, plaid bedspreads, bright windows. Group rooms are calm and intimate. Exercise room has floor to ceiling windows that look onto a tree filled ravine. Cafeteria is bright and beautiful with 24 access to coffee, juice, water. Beautiful outdoor patio area for secure smoking. Central nursing station with 24 hour coverage so no one gets by unnoticed.

A counsellor picked us up at the airport ( thank goodness as the cab ride back was $45 dollars!). Another counsellor met Jordan at the door, shook his hand, told him it took a lot of courage to step through the door and they were proud of him for taking that step. Jordan got a little misty and swallowed hard a few times. They put us in the chapel for our goodbyes. I got a long, firm, two armed hug and an ” I love you” and then he was gone.

I paid the bill, got a tour, asked lots of questions. Lots of rules and structure. I like that he has a roommate as he needs to work on social skills and they pair them with someone further along so they can offer support. We will have regular contact with counsellor and will participate in treatment plan.

I remain guarded in my ability to hope, but am more optimistic than I was yesterday. He got brighter as we travelled and did not hesitate at all. It is the right place for him, I just hope it is the right time.

 I played Amazing Race with Air Canada agent and will be home slightly earlier (7:30 instead of 1100). Although  it seems inappropriate given the purpose of the day, I intend to have a giant glass of wine when I finally get home. Or two.