Tuesday, August 4

Parker: 6 Weeks Old

We had another exciting week - Parker experienced three more firsts! Attending the Lenawee County Fair, riding an elephant, and going camping!

On Wednesday night, Parker and I traveled home to my parents house - I wanted to take him to the fair on Thursday before we left for camping on Friday.

So, Aunt Becca, Uncle Kelson, and I took the little man to the fair. I had to get a fix on the wonderful fair food - funnel cakes...mmmm! While we were walking around, we came upon the "Elephant Encounter" show. We decided to sit and watch the show where we learned about the two species of elephants, Asian and African. At the end of the performance they offered elephant rides - for ALL ages. I couldn't resist! So, Becca, myself, and Parker rode Cora. Not something Parker will remember, but we've got pictures to prove it!

On Friday we left for the annual Vanderpool Reunion (my mom's side of the family) at the Circle B Campground in Angola, Indiana. We rented a lodge that housed all 9 of us very comfortably. We had a great time cooking over the campfire, going swimming, and visiting with family. We left Sunday afternoon to head for home.

Needless to say, Parker and I took Monday to recouporate from the exciting week. Jeff missed the little guy...and even me a little too!

I'm down to my last two weeks of being home with Parker before I have to return to work. We made the decision on the daycare center, Canaan Land Child Development Center (the one I spoke about in the last post where he made a nice mess), and he'll be starting there on August 19th - the same day I go back to work. I know that's going to be a very emotional day!

Have a great week!

Monday, August 3

Parker: 5 Weeks Old

What an exciting week we had! On Thursday, we went and toured a few daycare centers. Parker made a real impression on the second one where he needed to be fed and then proceeded to take a nice pooh that resulted in leaking through his shirt and pants! Talk about feeling comfortable in your surroundings!

Friday night we packed up the car, which takes a lot more room than it used to, and traveled the 3 1/2 hours to Ottawa, IL - the hometown of Jeff's parents. Jeff's family was throwing us a baby shower to celebrate Parker's birth. We stayed at Grandma Riley's new digs and are greatly appreciative for the accommodations.

Saturday was a big day for Parker as he was introduced to his family. We enjoyed brunch by the pool, opening gifts, and visiting with everyone. Parker certainly had a lot of arms to choose from for his naps and he soaked up the attention! Thank you so much to Uncle Don and Aunt Pam for hosting the party and to everyone else who helped make it a wonderful visit!

We had a fantastic weekend!