Back Home Again

WEEERRR'EEE BAAAACK! Our first family vacation was a success but I will say its always nice to be back home. We had lots of firsts on this vacation that I thought would be fun to share...

First trip for JD to Chicago to see Amy and Paul

First time in a sand box

First 19 hour road trip (all together)

First time in Wisconsin and first time in a lake (he hated the lake-couldn't even get a picture)

First vacation for Mom and Dad since we were pregnant

First time meeting cousin Paige (and stealing our first cracker)

First time in a Little Tykes Car (Grandpa Menard is promising one of these for the first birthday!)

It was definitely a different experience than any other vacation we have ever taken as a couple but a great one! The car trip went wonderful (to our surprise). The last 2 hours of our trip up there were a little rough because it poured (and I mean POURED) on us. The roads were curvy and starting to flood a little...it was a bit scary. But as soon as we made it there safely all was great and the skies opened up to let the sun shine through to start our vacation!

It was a bit hard to juggle planned activities and JD's napping/bedtime schedule. But we worked it out. The first night we stretched JD's night time limit and paid for it as he screamed bloody murder in the middle of the night (and wouldn't/couldn't be consoled). So we were strict about bed time the rest of the vacation and all was fine.

The first night, 9pm. Cranky baby.

It was absolutely awesome that we got to stay with Amy and Paul on the way there and back. We love you guys and can't wait to see you again soon! Thank you again for your amazing hospitality (and great food!).

As far as the random vacation purchases went....hands down the winner was the pre-made Similac Bottles! It made life SOOOO completely easy. The "Bibsters" and the Beach Bag come in a close second though! :)

My absolute favorite picture!