First Trip as Family of Four

Being experienced parents, we are wise enough to know the optimal age at which a child should embark on a long-distance journey.  That is why we waited until Cecily reached the mature age of 2.5 weeks to take her on her first airplane trip.

No.  Really.

Had it not been for the momentous occasion of my grandfather's 85th birthday and a huge gathering of family to celebrate, we might not have travelled this early.  However, when the celebration weekend was being planned, I knew it was the kind of thing that we could not miss.  Barring any medically prohibitive circumstances, having a tiny baby would not keep us from sharing in this memorable occasion.  Despite sleepless nights, three illnesses (all but the baby), and nearly non-stop feeding and diaper changing, I don't have a single regret about going.  On the contrary, we had such a wonderful time visiting with my mom's family, my friends, and my dad's family.  We were happy to share in my grandfather's and father's milestone birthdays and get to share our sweet girls with so many family members.  Additionally, Greg got to play on two first-class golf courses and I had a most relaxing facial.

Here are pictures from the week in Illinois and Indiana:

Cecily with Great-Grandmother Audra 

Cecily with our friend and mom's neighbor, Jesse

Cecily and Aunt Non and two cousins 

Cecily and Cousin Jonathon 

Cecily and Great-Grandfather Marshall 

Cecily and my friend, "aunt" Suzanne 

Cecily and "aunts" Sabrina, Stephanie, and Suzanne.  Getting together in my parents' basement brings back a lot of memories!! 

We realized that this was the last time we would all be together in my childhood home.  We will just all have to get together in their new house in Texas.  Hmm... Schlitterbahn trip??  :)

Cecily with "aunt" Bonnie, from whom we borrowed several pieces of baby equipment. 

Cecliy with Gram, wearing the Carter's jammies that I wore as a baby. 

Geneva taking a bike ride with Gramps

 Family gather in the Pluto-Water Well in French Lick.  If you can, read the writing above.  Haha.

Cousin Hannah and her sweet friend Christian.  

An attempt at a family photo 

Another try.  Geneva had just woken up from her through-dinner nap, which she took on a couch that Greg and dad pulled into our dining room. 

Family bowling night at French Lick! 

With Great-Grandpa Fred: the reason for our family gathering and celebration 

Late night for a 3 year old 

Sisters :) 

I love my cousin, Hannah! 

Do we look relaxed? 

Dad's birthday- but who looks to be the center of attention? 

With Great-Grandpa Fred 

What a crazy, full, crazy, fun, crazy, crazy, crazy week! :)