Gavin's Big Adventure

We took the ride up to Show Low for Memorial Day, just as we did last year. Except this time, Gavin was a huge 25 lb (-ish) baby instead of a fetus in my belly. A big difference!

We hadn't been to my folks' cabin since G was 1 month old. It takes some planning and a lot of preparation to travel with a baby and two dogs (and a husband) for three days, but we all fit in Vic the Volvo with our bikes on back, and with room to spare. Bath stuff, pool stuff, stuff to wear, things to sit in, things to play with, things to sleep in, stuff to eat...I'm pretty sure I remembered everything.

Being at the cabin means lots of relaxation. Not as much anymore with baby on board, but more than at home since my mom's favorite thing is to hang out with G while I do what I do. I did some reading and took a few walks. Good for the mind and soul. On Sunday, Dylan, my dad, and me took the bikes out to a trail close to Sunrise. It was a little more challenging and rocky than what we do out here on the preserve, but it was fun to bike among the pine trees in the cold weather.

Bird watching on the patio

On Monday, Dylan and my dad hit the golf course, while mom, G, and me went to the pool. It was Gavin's first time in the water. Despite loving the bath, he was mostly unimpressed with the pool.

We didn't get out of Show Low without Gavin making his incredibly loud and high-pitched squeal in a few public places, like the pizza restaurant and the community pool. I'm pretty sure nobody else thinks it's as funny as we think it is...but oh well. He did great in the car both ways, for the most part. We enjoyed visiting with my family and escaping to the cool and overcast weather. Thanks mom and dad for hosting us for such a fun weekend!

At the pool with Nonna

What is on my head?

You've got something on your face.

Someone needs to teach this boy not to laugh with food in his mouth.

What was for lunch?

Mom, you have a booger.

Eh, this is just okay.

Forgot his dentures.

Getting some work done with Nonna.

Video games!

We were so excited to have this weekend getaway planned for our family. The reality of our life is that we really can't plan much beyond dinner for the night. Not awesome for wanderlusters, but a means to an end and a fact of life. We are in a special situation for right now and soaking up our time together as a family. For as much as I have a difficult time when Dylan is away, having him home is super sweet.

Also, congratulations to my parents who officially retired this week! They've been in the workforce since before I, and probably you, were born. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Job well done, mom and dad!

And lastly, so as not to lose sight of the real meaning of our long weekend, thank you to our nation's armed forces, present and past. I cannot comprehend your bravery and sacrifice. And happy short work week! Now, I just have to wrap my mind around the fact that it's Tuesday at 1pm and not Sunday at 5pm. Because it feels like the latter.