St. George, FL

Summer has officially begun!

I only have 3 more weeks of maternity leave.  This week I got to enjoy it with the Nyquist/Donges family on a beach trip in St. George Island.

Philip did such a great job on the 7 hour car ride to Florida. 

He was a happy little boy as long as we were moving.

Mom and Dad were lucky and got a sweet room at the house. Philip was all smiles as slept comfortably in the closet so he could see the stars from his nightlight.

I love this place, I really do. This was my 3rd time to St. George and its always so peaceful.

I'll admit this year was tough. I have been anxious for months about coming on this trip with a newborn. Together Kelly & I stuck to Philip's schedule and enjoyed the vacation the best we could. 

Mornings on the beach were very relaxing. I took Philip for a 2 mile walk on the beach while Kel threw in a few lines.

This is exactly the reason I do NOT go in the water.

Look at the size of that shark!

Thank goodness he starting reeling in fish.

Kel had quiet the audience as he cleaned up his catch.

I have to admit the fish was mighty delicious.

Philip had a few firsts this trip- the beach and the pool. We lathered Philip with sunscreen, put on his bathing suit and he was all set for his first pool experience.  

Mom is a little short to hold Philip in the water. He feels much more comfortable in Dads arms. 

If Philip wasn't in the pool he was poolside watching the family.

I knew I wasn't going to soak up the sun on the beach like I normally do. 

I couldn't have asked for a better beach bum to hang out with in the shade.

After much fun in the sun, everyone enjoyed a little break from the heat to hang out indoors.

The littles ate their lunches.

Awhile the big kids played a few card games with TeeTah.

Some caught up on much needed sleep.

Philip had a great time with his cousins; next time he will be playing in the sand with them.

Chooch and Hattie made Philip smile. 

Kate made sure he was all snuggled up for nigh nigh.

LB was a great babysitter and multi-tasker!

Evenings were enjoyed watching the Copa tournament and playing games.

 The kids even wanted to give Philip his bottles!!

One evening we took family photos, they are hectic, sweaty but we always enjoy the sunset on the beach.

I love this kid so much!

Hattie is growing up so fast! Last time were were in St. George she was 3 weeks old.

These are the most amazing fathers with their little men. 

Picture perfect.

The ladies gathered for a photo op.

My heart melts every single time I see these two together- my lovies 

I truly can't believe we are now a family of three.

My boys are so very handsome. I am such a lucky girl!

This little mama got a nice 2 hours break- adult time!

 A friendly game of- show me your nutz!

Followed by some pool time

Lots of shenanigans at the pool.

I most definitely don't tell you how much you mean to me. Yes, you do all the landscaping, cooking and cleaning but more importantly you are an amazing father. I see the way you look at Philip and the way he responds to you. Thank you for being my everything.

A yummy family dinner 

We all looked forward to this trip and our time together flew by.

Another fun family vacation, now back to reality.

Until next time St. George.
Yikes, I only a few more weeks until I have to go back to work!

Memorial Day Weekend

This weekend Philip, Callie and I took a morning stroll to remember the people who died while serving in our armed forces. To all the men and women who sacrificed their lives so we can live in the land of the free- Thank you!

 The weekend was full of fun and extra snuggles with Dad.

 We took a quick day-trip up to Athens to say hello to Uncle Ben & Wrigs.

Philip missed his cousins Kate & Bruce who were out of town.

 Bathtime was a little confusing for our little. Are you my Dad?

 Back at home we enjoy a cookout at TeeTahs. Our bellies were full from yummy ribs, corn, potato salad, corn and delicious desserts.

2 months

How has it already been 2 months since you were born?
It feels like just yesterday we were checking into the hospital to get induced. 

Your 2 month appointment was a doozy. 

Dad held you tight while the nurse gave you two shots. Mom was in the corner trying not to cry her eyes out. You received another good report from Dr. B.

Weight: 12lbs 13 oz- 69%

Length/Ht- 22.75 in.-42%

In the past month you have gained 3 lbs 5 oz and grown 1 3/4 inches. 

Big Boy!

Maternity leave is hard, really hard but totally worth the sleepless nights and my emotional meltdowns. I am lucky to spend my days with you and watch you grow.
By 6 weeks you were already wearing clothes size 3 months.
These past few hours you have started to smile, giggle and coo.

We continue our daily routines with the Eat, Play, Sleep- repeat.
Oh little guy, that tummy is so tiny yet you are a good eater.
I look forward to the day you stop spitting up.

Now that Philip isn't so tiny I am starting to feel a little more comfortable taking him out of the house. Philip, Callie and I have begun taking a few strolls around the neighborhood. Its quiet the task putting him in the carseat, then the jogging stroller, getting Callie's leash on- all the while getting myself ready for the walk. Its totally worth the 3.5 mile walk once we get going, fresh air is good for the soul.

Whether its riding around in your stroller or porch sitting listening to the birds with Dad, you are happiest when you are outside.

 Tummy time still isn't your favorite but you are getting there and gaining strength in your neck.
A little independent playtime is a nice short break for everyone.

Philip is now sleeping around  5-6/7 hours now. He is in bed by 7:30/8PM and will fuss until he soothe himself with a binkie. He'll lull himself to sleep gazing at the stars on the ceiling and listening to white noise. Philip will usually wake up around midnight. Then he is back down to sleep and up again at 5AM if we are lucky 7AM. 

Now that he is gaining weight, his face is filling out. We are starting to see rolls forming in his arms and legs. 

Philip you are Handsome just like your Daddy.

Love you Pangga!

My first Mother's Day

This particular holiday is one I have wished to celebrate for a few years now.

It really is a dream come true to be mother. To be able to look into those sweet eyes and know that he is all mine. I want nothing more than to watch him grow up and explore this big world. To get a good education, be kind to others, learn about himself, and know that he is always loved. 

This holiday was extra special because we celebrated with Lola and TeeTah!
We kicked off the morning eating brunch with Lolo & Lola, TeeTah and the Donges crew.   

 Following brunch we headed over to Lolo & Lola's new house for a little photo shoot.

 Three generations

 My handsome husband and our little boy

Proud Lolo and Lola with their 9th grandchild!

I will always be there to hold your hand little man. 

ALWAYS.