Our Thanksgiving travels

On Friday we all got back from a week long visit to Ft. Worth and Shreveport.  It was our first time to meet our niece, Maya, and we loved being able to spend so much time with her and to share Thanksgiving with Jeff’s family!  

Ford and I went a day earlier than Jeff so we could try to see as many friends as we could.  We spent some time with the Hotchkiss family on Wednesday afternoon and night.  Ford loved seeing all the Hotchkiss kids, as well as Milk Shake the dog and Zorro the cat (who he called “Zewo”).   Thursday we had a fun morning play date with some TCU moms and babies. 

Ford with Macy and Brooke

Ford wrestling with Luke (who we realized was two months younger than Ford is now when I first met the Hotchkiss family!)

Ford, Makenna, Charlotte, and Hogan (getting a picture with 4 one year olds is almost impossible)

We were able to see Laura for lunch at Chrissie’s house before it was nap time and were at Jason and Kari’s that evening before Jeff arrived.  It was a fun and busy day and a half. 

Playing with Thessalie at her house before nap time

On Friday we drove to Shreveport, as did Jason, Kari and Maya.  Ford was happy to see Grandad and to see his wagon waiting for him! 

We had a great time seeing members of both the Crane and Langford families.  Christmas came early for Ford and Maya at Grandad’s house and Ford definitely enjoyed opening presents and playing with all of his new toys and books.  Patti, Sandi and Michelle all stopped by to play for a bit on Saturday morning which was fun. 

Saturday night there we all went to a surprise 60th birthday party for Jeff’s aunt Susan.  Jeff’s Gramp had all of his grandkids there, as well as his three great-grandchildren, which was special to see.  All of the cousins had not been together in one place in at least ten years! 

On Sunday we went to Bass Pro Shop to see all the Christmas decorations and to see the alligators out front.  Ford definitely loved all the Christmas trees and lights!  

We also were able to spend time at Gram’s house as well that day.  Ford quickly discovered that she had treats and fun toys. 

Ford also loved his wagon rides at Grandad’s and enjoyed throwing acorns outside too.  He enjoyed spending time with Patsy, Jeff’s cousin Jay’s 8 year old daughter, and loved following her around when she came to play on Sunday afternoon. 

On our way out of town on Monday we all stopped by to see Gramp Langford.  Ford enjoyed going outside on his patio and loved when Gramp carried him around the house to show him all of the chiming clocks. 

Before leaving Ford enjoyed helping Aunt Kari with some computer work

We headed back to Fort Worth after our visit with Gramp and were able to stay until Friday afternoon.  We made a stop at the TCU bookstore to get some new purple Horned Frog gear before heading over to have dinner with some TCU friends.  Ford definitely enjoyed being with his friends!  At one point, the five kids were all upstairs in the play room running around in circles shreaking with delight.  It was a very cute (and loud) sight. 

Charlotte, Ford, Thessalie, Josh and Lillie

While we were in Fort Worth we enjoyed our time at Jason and Kari’s and loved holding Maya.  It was our first time to meet our sweet niece and we loved getting to see her, play with her and hold her.  Ford even became more interested in her as our trip progressed.  A lot of times he would tell us “Maya sleeping” or “Maya crying” or “Maya hold you.” 

Playing at Grandad’s house

We were able to visit TCU twice, once to say hello to a few people and the other time on Thanksgiving afternoon to walk around.  On Wednesday Jeff, Ford, Kari, Maya and I went to the Fort Worth Zoo which was a huge hit.  We all really enjoyed it and had beautiful weather.  Thanksgiving morning we headed to the Botanical Gardens before coming home to get the meal ready and meet Jeff’s dad who drove in that day from Shreveport.  We had a great Thanksgiving meal, followed by a walk at TCU.  We are still amazed at how beautiful TCU’s campus is and how much it has changed since we went to school there.  Ford liked seeing Frog Fountain, his Grandmother Patsy’s tree, and even sat on the statue of the Horned Frog. 

In front of the tree planted in honor of Patsy on TCU’s campus

Rubbing the Frog for good luck

Sitting with Maya before saying good-bye

During our Fort Worth stay Ford also really liked playing at the park that is literally in the back of Jason and Kari’s yard.  I think “outside” was the most frequently used word of Ford’s while we were there.  Our week was both busy and relaxing.  It was wonderful to see family and friends and we are continually reminded how blessed we are.

State number eight

Last week Ford and I were lucky enough to be able to travel to Nebraska, the eighth state he has visited so far.  We had some trouble getting out of Columbia to say the least.  We went to the airport for our 8:30 am flight only to have them tell me that my ticket had already been used and I didn’t have a ticket for that day.  I was traveling on my dad’s miles and apparently when I traveled in September to Colorado they couldn’t find my ticket and used my ticket to Omaha to get me to Colorado.  But they failed to ever mention that to me at the time.  I am still not sure I completely understand what happened, even after hours on the phone with multiple United reps.  In the end, after using more of my dad’s miles to get a new reservation, we eventually made it to Omaha (just 8 hours later than we had originally scheduled) late Friday night.  Our change in travel times meant that we traveled starting at 5:30 pm rather than 8:30 in the morning.  I was more nervous than usual since I haven’t really traveled much with Ford at night.  He was a fantastic traveler as always though, and I was so proud of him.  We traveled through Chicago so Ford was able to get out and play in their awesome play area.  Before we got on our plane to Omaha I changed him into his pjs hoping that he might take a snooze on the plane (our second plane didnt leave until 10 pm our time and he had not gone to sleep at all).  On our second flight I accidentally sat on the wrong side of the plane but didn’t realize it until we took off.  We had a middle seat (because of having to make a “new” reservation that same day that is the only seat they had left supposedly) which I was not looking forward to.  I sat in the last row in the middle seat and kept waiting for people to sit on either side of us.  Before I knew it, they said they had closed the doors and no one was next to us!  Every other row was almost completely full with very few empty seats at all on the plane.  Such a blessing to have room and I am thankful I accidentally sat on the wrong side of the plane!  Ford thought it was pretty great to have his own seat, but this also meant he was a little bit of a wiggle worm.  He would climb from my lap into the window seat, sit back, cross his legs, look pleased, and then reposition himself somewhere else.  It was a little tiring for me, but I was just happy that he was happy (even though I was concerned that the boy had no intentions of going to sleep).  At 11:10 our time Ford finally fell asleep in my arms, about one minute prior to making our final decent.  He was so tired though that he stayed asleep as I carried him off the plane (and two sweet men carried our bags), put him in the stroller, and strolled him through the Omaha airport to meet Katie and Laura.  Katie and Laura are two of my best friends from grad school.  We have had many reunions over the years but hade not been able to get together for 3 years.  Katie and her husband Mike, and their 13 month old daughter, Maggie, live in Omaha.  Laura and her husband live in Chicago so she flew in as well to meet up with us.  Ford had a great night’s sleep that night and we all woke up to quite a surprise. . . 6 inches of beautiful white snow!  We all threw warm clothes on and went outside.  It was both Ford and Maggie’s first experience walking in the snow.  It was fun to watch their reactions.  Ford wasn’t too sure about it at first, then liked it, then lost his balance and ended up sitting in the snow (which was ok for a bit) and then decided he was ready to call it quits. 

After playing in the snow we all came in and had a great pancake breakfast before getting ready for the day.  Then we all went to the Omaha Zoo which was awesome.  It was really chilly out so we tried to see the animals that had inside exhibits.  On the way to the zoo Ford and Maggie held hands on and off during the drive.  It wasn’t just Ford initiating either.  Maggie would reach over and grab his hand and then later, Ford would look at Maggie and say “hand” and grab her hand to hold.  Such cute friends.

Ford and Maggie– they loved each other from the start (and this was completely not prompted by anyone)

Saturday night we got a babysitter so we could go out for some girl time (and Mike could meet up with some of his guy friends).   We walked through some shops and then had a great dinner out.  It was fun to have time with just the three of us and even though it had been 3 years since we had all been together it was so easy to pick up where we left off.  The sign of really good friends.  On Sunday we woke up to fresh snow falling, but it didn’t stick to the ground.  Because it was another cold and gloomy day we decided to stay close to home.  Laura had to leave Sunday night but Ford and I were able to stay until lunch on Monday.

Katie, Laura and Allison

The two little monkeys wearing their coordinating jammies before bed

Monday at lunch time Kelly drove in to pick us up and drive us back to Lincoln (about an hour and 15 minutes).  She and the boys had lunch over at Katie’s and then we packed up and headed to their new house in Lincoln.  It was so fun to be able to see their new home and city and to just hang out during the week.  The boys were excited to see each other and loved playing together during the week.  We were able to take the boys to story time at their library and ran a few errands one day too.  One night Kelly and I got to go see a movie with her mother-in-law and sister-in-law which was fun.  One morning we took Brady and Ford to the children’s museum which was wonderful.  They both loved being inside a two-seater airplane, but were not fans of the fire truck or tractor (go figure).  They also loved playing the piano together.  After the museum we went out for lunch before picking David up at his grandma’s house.  Friday morning we put on our warm clothes (it was cold and overcast all week) and took all the boys out to a pumpkin patch.  It was a huge hit!  Ford is really into pumpkins and will point them out anytime he sees one, so this was right up his ally.  This pumpkin patch was awesome.  They had slides for the kids, a tunnel to run through, several play areas, pigs, bunnies, chickens, goats and a yak!  They also had a hayride out to the field but we didn’t do that.  It was a great morning!  Ford and Brady loved the pumpkins and enjoyed helping Kelly push the wagon with a pumpkin on it out to the car.  It was fun to just watch the boys play at home too.  Ford wanted to hold Brady’s hand throughout the week, they gave each other lots of hugs (and one time after their hug Brady then said “I love Ford”- so sweet).  The big boys also had fun racing the two push toys back and forth the width of the house.  Ford was also very aware of David too.  If he heard him on the monitor he would continue to say his name until Kelly got him out of his crib.  He also would just call his name.  Another funny thing was that the boys heard the word “share” quite a bit that week.  By the end Ford would just hand over his toy and say “share,” but then would also see either Brady or David playing with something and would say  “share” expecting to get it.  We still have a way to go on the whole “sharing” concept, but they all really did do an excellent job playing together. 

playing the drums together

A little snuggle time with David

Making some pretty music at the museum (or ”mims” at Ford calls it)

Fun at the pumpkin patch!

Helping Kelly push the wagon with the pumpkin out to the car

A not so great attempt of trying to get a good picture of the three boys

Ford and I had a wonderful visit in Nebraska.  I feel blessed to have such wonderful friends whose friendships have been maintained for so many years and across so many states.  I am so thankful Ford and I were able to go spend time with our special friends in Nebraska!  Ford has continued to bring up bits and pieces from our trip, a sign that our boy had a great time too!

Celebrating a milestone in Colorado

Ford and I got back two weeks ago from a nice trip to Colorado.  My Grandma Elaine turned 95 years old on Friday, September 18, so we went to help her celebrate!  My aunt from Oregon also flew in for a few days as well.  We hadn’t seen her since last September so were happy she was able to join us. 

The first half of the trip the weather was beautiful!  Blue skies and in the 70s.  Ford got to play at the park, take Bailey to the dog park, play on the deck, and even got to go see the goats that are in one of the parks to eat the noxious weeds.  After seeing the goats the first time Ford would say “goats” or “bye goats” every time we passed by the area where they were.  Ford loved blowing bubbles out on the deck, watering the flowers, and just gliding in the chairs.  He is definitely an outdoor kind of guy.  

Happy to be playing with Auntie Sheryl

Enjoying some pizza with Papa

Loving the dog park as always

Ford loved seeing his pal, Bailey, again.  He would call his name all day and if Bailey was lying down, Ford would walk over to him to pet him, give him a toy or bone, lay on him, try to brush his hair, give him a hug or kiss, and even tried to put chapstick on him one time.  Ford also wanted to feed Bailey and give him treats.  Ford was able to help Gramma or Papa feed Bailey when it was time, but he couldn’t quite understand why he couldn’t feed Bailey all day long.  Ford also enjoyed taking Bailey to the dog park and watching Bailey get in the river to “swim.”  Once it was cold Bailey obviously was not going swimming, but Ford kept saying “swimming” because he wanted to see his friend take a dip.  Bailey definitely kept our boy busy and extremely happy while we were there.  One morning I heard Ford yelling from his crib “Hi Bailey, Bailey Hi, Hi Bailey” over and over again until I came in the room to get him.  I think Ford tired Bailey out , but Bailey fell more in love with Ford too.  He is such a sweet dog and is wonderful with Ford. 

Ford also really loved Nellie Kitty this trip.  He called her by her name or “Bell Bell” which is a nickname I often call her.  He would go into my parent’s room calling her name and go to the chair where she usually sleeps and just talk to her, rub her head, and try and hug her and give her kisses.  Sometimes she would get down on the floor with him so he could pet her more, or would get on their bed to be loved.  Ford liked going on the bed with Nellie and would give her lots of kisses, pet her, etc.  He was pretty gentle with her and she loved him and all the attention he gave her!  We got Nellie when I was in 6th grade so she is an older kitty, and he did great with her.  He also got to help give Nellie her wet food each night by carrying her bowl from the kitchen to the room.  He also fed her dry food every time he went in the room too.  He would go grab a handful of food from her bowl and take it to her in her chair for her to eat.  Such a sweet boy.  Definitely an animal lover.

trying to give kisses

Ford and I went to visit my Grandma (who he calls “G.G.”) throughout our visit.  She loved just watching him walk around her apartment and play out on the patio.  He also pretended to talk on her phone which was pretty funny for her to see.  For her birthday she came over for a “party” at my parents house.  It was just our family and we had a wonderful steak dinner.  She had a birthday dessert with candles to blow out (just a “9″ and a “5″ rather than 95 individual candles).  While we had dessert she opened her presents and all of the cards she received.  She couldn’t believe all the cards she had.  We all had a great night and I think it was a special day for her.  She joined us for lunch and dinner throughout the week as well.

Having fun putting chapstick on GG while we were out at dinner

Giving GG kisses

Four generations

While my aunt was here we were all able to go to an arts and crafts festival at Rock Ledge Ranch.  It was huge and Ford had fun being strolled around, walking, and going to see the cow and sheep with Papa while the girls shopped.  He also had fun walking up some stairs and down the ramp, and climbing on the rocks.  We also went to Nosh for lunch and were able to bring Bailey since it was pups, pools and patio day.  Ford enjoyed getting in the doggy pools too and definitely had a great time.  He enjoyed the calamari again and the sweet potato fries.  Nosh was a hit again like it was in June.

On our way to go see the goats

About to hop back in the pool at Nosh to dance and splash around some more

Monday was a major weather change and one we were not prepared for.  I actually did check the weather forecast before we left, but it said it would be in the 70s for the next 10 days.  That didn’t quite happen.  Sunday evening started getting chilly as the front started moving through.  Early Monday morning my aunt left.  My mom, Grandma, me and Ford went to a PEO meeting together.  Ford and I only stayed for the refreshments part and then left.  But, we wanted to go because they had a birthday cake for my Grandma.  When we were driving back home it was 37 degrees and 10:00 in the morning.  It started sleeting a little but by the time we were home it was back to rain.  While we were playing at home I looked outside and saw big snowflakes!!  It came down for quite a while, but melted on the ground.  However, when the snow was done, the mountains had a white blanket over them!  Ford wanted to go outside, but becuase it was so wet and cold and our clothes weren’t exactly warm enough, he had to stay inside.  We had to do a little shopping that day to get a few things for us to keep warm.  My favorite thing that Ford got is his new pair of winter Keens!  They are so cute on him.

At the PEO meeting eating cake to celebrate G.G.’s birthday!

It stayed cold until Friday afternoon, but with our new items to keep us warm we were still able to go outside to take Bailey to the dog park, play on the deck, or go to a park for Ford to play.  

Late Thursday night Kelly drove in from Nebraska with Brady and David to stay with us for our last two days in Colorado Springs before heading to Denver to see her sister-in-law.  Ford loved seeing his friends and had so much fun playing with them.  We took the boys to a park and as we drove up, we saw a momma bear with her two cubs walking right through the park!  We also took the boys to the zoo.  The highlight for Ford was feeding the giraffes crackers.  He talked about it non-stop for the next few days.  We also took the boys to see the goats which was a hit.  It was fun to have them with us in Colorado.  

 Giving David some snacks

Playing on the see-saw (“ha-ha”) with Brady

Saying “hi goats!”

We definitely had a great trip and Ford has been talking about different parts of it ever since.

While Kelly was in Colorado with us, our husbands were together back in Columbia for a guys football weekend.  They all went to the South Carolina vs Ole Miss game Thursday night, spent Friday on a pontoon boat out on Lake Murray, and on Saturday drove up to Clemson to see the TCU at Clemson game.  The house was intact when I got back, but I am sure it has many    stories. . . if only walls could talk.  Here are two pictures from the TCU game.

tail-gating before the big game

The guys who stayed at our house:  Jeff, Travis, Joseph, Todd, Jason, Kevin, Matt

Our Beach Boy!

This weekend we took another trip to the beach!  We drove down Saturday during Ford’s nap to Karin and Scott’s house in Mt. Pleasant.   Once we got to their house we unloaded our stuff, got in our beach gear and drove the very short drive to the Isle of Palms.  Ford was even more interested in the ocean, it’s waves, and digging in the sand then he was last month when I took him.  He especially loved sitting in the water, digging, and then dropping the wet sand on his legs.  Another favorite was running into the water  and getting knocked down by waves.  He laughed each time a wave would knock him down and sometimes it seemed like he was just sitting down on his own, not completely being knocked down by a wave.  Sunday we went back to the beach again and Ford had just as much fun as on Saturday.  There were small “pools” of water by the pier that he enjoyed running through too.  He definitely “played hard” on Sunday and after cleaning up and eating lunch at Karin and Scott’s we drove home (and it took less than 5 minutes in the car before Ford was sound asleep).  It was great to see our friends and to spend some more time at the beach.  Ford had been looking forward to seeing Scott and Karin for a few days prior to our going.  Last week I told him we were going and the next few days following that he would say their names as if asking if that was the day we would see them.  He was happy to spend some time with his friends, and to get to feed Scott’s fish both days too.  We all had a great time and are thankful we were able to “get away” together.   

The sign of a great fun-filled weekend

Road Trip. . .Ford and Momma style

Last  Thursday to Sunday morning Jeff was down in Charleston for a convention.  So, on Friday afternoon before his nap Ford and I headed down to Mt. Pleasant (Charleston area) to see my friend Karin (who I worked with at Oak Pointe).  Karin and Scott moved right after school ended in June and we wanted to see them and their new home.  Ford was a great car rider!  He slept for about an hour and then was slowly waking up the rest of the time.  He perked up quite a bit when he starting seeing boats and would say “boat, boats, bye-bye boats” every time he saw them.  Friday was also Karin’s birthday so we were able to celebrate with her which was fun.  Ford enjoyed feeding Scott’s fish in his big aquarium each day and playing with the extra sets of computer key boards he had as well.

 

On Saturday morning we got packed up and headed to the Isle of Palm to play on the beach for a bit.  Ford really enjoyed it!  He seemed to like the water even better than he did back in May.  In fact, at one point he just ran straight for it!  He spent his morning digging, walking, people and dog watching, playing in the water and just having a fabulous time!  After his nap that day we headed out to a nice shopping center for an errand and there was an added bonus. . . a fire truck with firemen was out for everyone to see.  Ford loved it!  He got “Jr. Fire Fighter” stickers (that he proceeded to take off and crush in a ball) and kept saying “fire truck.”  It was a hit!  After the fire truck we headed home and went swimming in Karin’s neighborhood pool.  A great way to cool off from the heat!

On Sunday morning we went to the neighborhood park which had lots of equipment just his size! 

After packing up Ford and I said good-bye and headed to the Charleston Aquarium to meet up with Jeff.  We had never been before so it was a first for all three of us!  The highlights for Ford included. . . seeing more boats out in the water, seeing penguins, and crabs!  At one point we were strolling him through a part with lots of different fish tanks and he kept saying “done” and doing the “all done” sign along with it.  I think he was getting frustrated that we kept stopping to show him the different fish while he kept saying “done.”  He does like fish, don’t get me wrong, but I think was ready to get out and walk, and to be in a different part of the aquarium.  All in all, it was a great time.

Outside the aquarium with the Cooper River Bridge in the back ground

Checking out the penguins with such excitement!

Interested in the crab in the bottom left hand corner of the tank

Ford giving his Dad a high five after touring the Aquarium

It was a wonderful weekend and I am glad we were able to road trip!  Definitely one of the perks of living where we do!

C-3 Summer Tour Part II

 Our fun summer tour continued as we drove from Shreveport back to Jason and Kari’s in Ft. Worth for a night.  On Thursday, July 9, Jeff, Ford, and I flew from DFW to Minneapolis where we met up with my parents.  Then the five of us flew to International Falls.  International Falls is as north as you can get and is literally across the river from Canada.  Their population sign reads “6,703″ to give you an idea of what size it is.  We travelled up there for my friend Brackin’s wedding.  Brackin and her sisters are the closest thing I have to sisters myself and it was an honor to be a part of her big day.  Ford was a super traveller and I continue to be so proud and thankful that he is the great traveller that he is.  On the short flight from Minneapolis to International Falls Ford took his nap in Grandpa’s arms.  Needless to say my dad was loving it.  As soon as we walked off the plane (outside) we all felt amazing.  The weather was incredibly cool and so refreshing.  The Mellums greeted us, we got out bags and car, loaded up, and headed to our hotel.  By the way, the sign at the airport says “Welcome to International Falls, the Ice Box of America.”  The winters get cold there to say the least.  We spent the evening over at the Mellum’s house (Marlo grew up in the Falls and still has his mother’s home) eating wondering food, relaxing and talking with our friends, and the guys took rides on the four wheeler and jeep.  Ford also took his first ride on the four wheeler with Marlo!  Ford had a blast just being outside in the cool weather and loved exploring the property, but always stayed close.  Ford fell in love with Hunter and would call his name over and over any time Hunter was not near him. 

Ford and Momma on the Mellum’s beautiful property 

Ford and Hunter

Ford riding the four wheeler!

On Friday Ford, Jeff and I swam in the indoor pool at the Holiday Inn.  My mom and dad came down too and Ford enjoyed showing off more of his swimming moves.  After swimming we went out in the back where they had lots of beautiful flowers, grass, and at the bottom on the hill was the river.  Ford loved climbing on the rocks and stepping on and off the tree stump.

Grandpa helped Ford keep his balance while he climbed up and down the rocks

Playing with Grandma

 

After playing outside for a bit we met up with Kim, Hunter and Aunt Val to go to Island View “Resort” for lunch.  I put the resort in quotation marks because when I think resort, I think luxury.  Not so much.  Nice place, but think more along the lines of fishing resort/cabins.  International Falls gets a lot of fisherman in both the summer and winter (ice fishing, which my dad and Jeff have decided they need to go back and try up there).  But, each of the three resorts on the lake have beautiful views and good food.  So, we enjoyed a leisurely lunch on the lake before heading home for Ford’s nap.   

Friday evening I headed off to the rehersal at the church while everyone else got ready and met up with me at Sha Sha Resort for the dinner.  We had fried Wall-Eye which was yum!  We all ate a lot of Wall-Eye while we were there and loved every bite!  The weather continued to be just perfect.  The sky was clear, the air was cool and had a breeze, and the night was just great.   

Ford with Grandma and Grandpa at Sha Sha Resort

Briana, Bethany, Allison, Brackin, Brittany

Hunter and Jeff being silly together

Saturday was the big day!  The Mellums girls and myself went to the coffee shop to get a bite to eat and drink and then headed next door to get our hair done.  My hair didn’t take long since it is short and neither did Kim’s, so after hanging out for a bit we went back to the hotel to start getting ready.  At about 12 or so I went down to the girls’ rooms to finish getting ready before pictures.  Brackin and Brook had their pictures taken in the gardens in the back of the Holiday Inn which is also where the reception was.  It was great to see Brackin as a bride, and to see her in the dress that we saw her pick out and buy while we were all together in Colorado at Christmas.  She looked beautiful.  The wedding was at 5:00 and the reception right after.  Jeff and my parents went swimming with Ford that day and took him out to eat for lunch.  He apparently continued having a good time and even was in garden area playing while we took pictures.  As I walked down the aisle in the church I heard him say “Mom, Momma.”  Such a sweet voice. 

The Mellum Family outside of the Holiday Inn before going to the church for the wedding

As I said the reception was at the Holiday Inn where we were all staying.  We had a nice dinner and yummy cake (my favorite).  Ford did a great job overall and would go on occasional walks around the lobby or outside.   

Back at the Holiday Inn after the service

While Jeff ate his dinner I watched Ford.  He decided that it was about time to start the dancing.  The music wasn’t playing, but that didn’t matter to Ford.  He went right out on the dance floor and started showing everyone his dance moves.  He was having a great time and his moves rivaled those of his dad (who later show cased his dance moves as well).

 

On Sunday we decided to check out Voyageurs National Park.  We went to the visitor’s center and Ford was happy to see a real, but not alive, moose!  We also spent some time down by the lake there as well, before heading back to Sha Sha Resort for lunch.  One thing I forgot to mention about Sha Sha is that you can buy peanuts in the shells to give to the chipmunks.  Ford fell in love with the chipmunks (calling them “munkgunks”)!  We bought him some peanuts and he fed a chipmunk or two and had a ball watching them.  He still asks for chipmunks and we have even gotten some chipmunk books from the library because of this new love. 

Behind the Holiday Inn on the river Sunday morning

Enjoying the ramp down by the lake 

After Ford’s nap (and a clean up of our boy who had no shorts on during his nap and who decided to take his diaper off during his nap and who got himself completely dirty all over-  a first and hopefully a last time for that experience) we were on to our next destination. . . Canada!  Yes, Ford has been to another country now.  We crossed the border into Canada, but unfortunately, nothing was open.  So, we got a snack and found a pretty place by the water for a bit before driving back over to the US.  Not a very eventful trip to Canada, but a trip none the less.

Ford in Canada!

Canada!

After our trips we headed over to the Mellum’s for the evening and for a Wall-Eye fish fry, along with some good old Texas brisket!  Ford enjoyed himself again and even ventured in the sand of the large garden.  He also wanted to sit on the four wheeler and in the jeep over and over again.  Ford was also a big fan of Marlo’s Wall-Eye and ate quite a bit that night.  We had a wonderful, relaxing, cool, last night in Minnesota.  A great way to end our fun vacation there. 

Now it’s Jeff’s turn to drive Hunter!

Aunt Briana and Ford sitting on the four wheeler

Ford with all his “aunts”

The next morning we all reluctantly headed to the airport to leave Minnesota.  The Cranes headed back to Ft Worth for a stop over before leaving at 7 am Tuesday morning for Columbia.  It was an awesome trip and we are thankful we were able to go.  Thanks to my parents and the Mellums for making the second half of our “tour” such a great one!  We truly enjoyed it. 

We have been home over a week now and are settled back into our routine.  Ford was completely exhausted by the time we got back to South Carolina.  The first night back in his own bed he slept from about 7:30 until almost 9:30 in the morning!  He hasn’t done that again, but has definitely enjoyed being back in his crib.  He has also had fun seeing some friends and going to his Gymboree classes.  Can’t believe our summer tour has come and gone.  Time sure is flying.

The C-3 Summer Tour ‘09, Part 1

Last Tuesday we got back from two weeks of travelling to see family and friends.  I have so many great pictures that I am going to post about our great trip in parts. 

We started our adventure by flying to Ft. Worth for a short, but jam-packed visit.  Ford and I went a little earlier than Jeff and spent our short time going from one house to another and from one set of friends to another.  We tried to fit in as much as we could, but of course were still unable to see everyone we would have liked.  Ford and I stayed at the Hotchkiss house where Ford fell in love with Luke (Ford calls him “Muke” or “Muck”) and Macy (Ford calls her “Manaz” most of the time).  In fact, he would just call their names out over and over while looking for them throughout the house.  He also enjoyed playing with Connor and Milkshake too.  Their pool was a hit of course, especially the hot tub (aka “the little pool”).  Ford would walk up and down this tiny step inside the hot tub and would sing his version of the “ABC’s” which sounded a bit like this, “A, b, a, b, a, b.” 

Having fun with his doggy buddies, Connor and Milkshake

Being silly with Macy and Luke

On Tuesday we had a big play date with some of Ford’s TCU buddies.  It was great to see so many friends and to see how the kids have grown since we last saw them.  Ford’s favorite was Charlotte’s wagon.  He and Charlotte and Thessalie had fun getting in and out (there was a door), and trying to buckle themselves in.  Ford even took the two girls on a wagon ride, pulling them around the Everly’s living room into the kitchen all by himself.  Such a gentleman.

  Play date with TCU buddies on June 29th. . . Thessalie, Ford, Hudson with Hadley, Josh , Lillie, Makenna, Charlotte

Trying for another group shot. . .  even though three of the friends had left already

Ford also was able to go meet and play with his new buddy Hogan.  Ford enjoyed Hogan’s doggy too. 

Before we picked up Jeff Ford and I were able to go to lunch with Laura and Amy and Hogan.  It was fun catching up, getting another great Ft Worth meal.  Once Jeff was in town we stayed with Jason and Kari and Ford enjoyed seeing their dog, Bailey.  Ford was even able to sleep in his cousin’s brand new crib (Yes!  we are going to have a niece this fall!!).  That evening we were able to see some more friends for dinner too.  On Thursday the three of us headed over to TCU for a visit.  Jeff wanted to see some people and tour the new athletics facilities.  We were impressed to also tour the new student union and to see how much the campus has changed since we both went there.  It is a beautiful place and it was fun to see. Our day went by fast and we enjoyed hanging out with Jason and Kari when they got home from work.    

Having fun at Uncle Jason and Aunt Kari’s house

My boys in purple on the TCU campus

Friday morning we got up, packed the car, and headed to Yogi’s for breakfast.  We were able to meet up with Jeff’s old roommate, Brian Florko, and his wife, Kristen, who we hadn’t had a chance to meet yet.  They were vacationing in Texas as well (they live in Kentucky now) and it worked perfectly that we overlapped our time in Ft Worth to catch up.  After breakfast we headed to the Hotchkiss house to see Brooke (who had been out of town earlier in the week) and say good-bye to everyone.  Ford had one last great time with his friends before saying good-bye and driving over to Shreveport. 

Ford with Brooke, Allison, Macy, Lisa and Luke

Catching a snooze on the way to Shreveport

While we were in Shreveport Ford had lots of great pool time which he loved!  The “little pool” was fun and he enjoyed playing with his new pool toys from his grandad.  He also was able to go on an almost daily wagon ride!  Jeff’s dad had some friends over to swim and have pizza the day we got in (Jason and Kari arrived not too long after we did).  Ford was a serious pizza eating machine!  I eventually cut him off after he kept eating and eating and eating some more!  He was a big fan of the pizza!  On Saturday, the fourth of July, Jeff’s aunts, uncles and cousins came over for swimming and lunch.  Ford loved seeing everyone and spending more time in the pool.   

 Fourth of July swimming fun!

On Sunday we were able to get a swim in before it rained.  The good thing about the rain is that it cooled things down quite a bit which was nice.  Sunday afternoon we all headed over to see Jeff’s grandfather, Gramp, and the Langford family.  It was great to catch up with everyone and Ford loved spending time out on Gramp’s patio climbing up and down the stairs. 

Sunday July 5

Sunday at Gramp’s house visiting with the Langfords

Spending time with Jason and Kari before bed

Jason and Kari (and Bailey too) had to leave early Monday morning to get back to work.  The rest of us had an easy going morning.  Patti came by and she and I went to check out a few fun stores in Shreveport which was a lot of fun.  That afternoon Jeff and I took Ford to see his Grandad at his work.  Ford loved the computer and quickly took over. 

 Having fun with great aunt Patti on Monday!

Ford loved visiting Grandad at work.  He decided he would take over and give Grandad a break.

That evening we headed to the Boardwalk area across the river.  We all rode the Carosel before grabbing a bite to eat.   We had the carosel all to ourselves!  Ford rode an alligator with his Grandad.

On Tuesday we took Ford over to his Great-Gram’s house to visit and play for a bit.  Ford enjoyed looking at the toys she had, exploring her house, and listening to her tiger that played music. 

Visiting Great- Gram Tuesday, July 7

July 8th, one last ride in the wagon before having to say good-bye and driving back to Ft. Worth for the night.  Ford is wearing a “vintage” outfit that was his dad’s or uncle’s!

 We had a great time in Ft. Worth and in Shreveport!  Thanks to everyone we saw and stayed with!  You helped make the first half of our trip a fun one! 

Colorado Cool

Two weeks ago Ford and I were able to go to Colorado to see my parents and Grandma.  To be honest, I was extremely nervous about flying with him this go round.  Yes, I know he has travelled way more than any 17 month old should at his age, but I was nervous because of his new mobility. . .and the fact that he does not sit still any more.  So, I loaded a bag with all kinds of goodies for him to play with, look at, color, etc.  I even bought a portable DVD player.  The flight I was most concerned about was on the small plane from Columbia to Dallas.  I knew it was completely full so we would be quite cozy sitting next to someone, which added to my nerves.  I prayed that God would bless us with sweet, kid friendly, people sitting around us.  As always, He answered my prayers and we had a very nice woman on the first flight next to us and a very friendly man sitting next to us on the way to Colorado.  As he has in the past, Ford was a super traveller.  I was so proud of him, and very relieved too!  He was a little squirmy the last 45 minutes or so of our first flight, but was able to be distracted.  No nap of course on that flight.  In DFW there is a great kids play area in terminal B that we frequent on every trip.  Ford loves climbing on everything and seeing the other kids.  Monday was no exception.  He played, and played, and played some more.  And then climbed, and played hard again.  I was a little concerned that the boy had not napped one bit, but hoped that there might be some small chance of even a short 30 minute nap on the 1.5 hours flight to Colorado.  We got on board, headed to the back to our seat, and then I realized how long it was going to be to fill the plane.  So, we walked down the aisle some, hung out by the bathrooms, anything to keep him busy and on his feet until it was time for us to leave.  Once we sat down and started moving I gave him one of his favorite snacks, “Bears” (Teddy Grahams).  He ate a few before I offered his “Pass” (pacifier) and literally, within a minute he was a goner.  The poor boy was knocked out.  He was so tired and finally gave into it!  I was so happy and always love the (now rare) times I get to hold him while he sleeps.  I was able to get out my ipod, listen to music, and just enjoy the sweetest boy in my arms.  I couldn’t stop looking down at him, so peaceful in my arms and lap, and couldn’t stop smiling and thanking God for creating Ford and for blessing me with him as my son.  Ford woke up as we were landing (I was shocked he slept 1.5 hours! He hasn’t taken that long of a nap on an airplane maybe ever!) and was in a fantastic mood!  He was excited to see Grandpa and once we got to the car, Bailey too.  The whole ride home Ford asked for Grandpa and Bailey who were in the front seat.  Ford was happy to get home and see Grandma and Nellie Kitty too and made himself right at home in no time. 

The whole week we had fabulous weather.  I love it there. It is so dry and just feels amazing, even if its “hot.”  It was in the 70’s and 80’s while we were there and just perfect.  It made for wonderful, daily trips to the park.  We had 3 amazing parks all within less than .5 mile from each other and probably not even a mile from my parents house.  In fact, Ford got to where every day he would request going to the park.  It is obvious that our boy enjoys the cooler weather just like his mom and dad. 

One of the 3 parks with an incredible view of the mountains!

 Ford loved swinging with Grandma!

Ford also had the chance to go to the dog park with Bailey every day.  He loved seeing the other dogs, being strolled around, and even getting out and walking some of the trail too.  He always wanted to make sure he knew where his Bailey dog was though, and Bailey always kept Ford in his sight too. 

Ford enjoyed helping Grandpa push his stroller around the dog park!

Another fun outing was REI.  We went to find him some more sandals (his broke while we were there) and knew they carried baby Keens (which I was so excited about since they are my favorite shoes and I think the baby ones are absolutely the cutest thing!).  Ford tried on some sandals and the size 5’s were the best so he was set in his new shoes.  I spent time trying on different shoes myself and while I did, Ford had fun climbing the rock in the shoe department with Grandma’s help.  By the end of our time there however, he was climbing on his own.  He looked like such an explorer.  He also got a cool new hat and with that on, his Keens, and his monkey backpack, he looked like such the Colorado boy! 

Ford’s rock climbing experience at REI helped prepare him for climbing the rocks at the zoo

Ford was able to see his great-grandma, GG, quite a bit too.  He loved her kitty, Tuesday, of course, and had fun chasing her from room to room.  He also liked one of her very small, child chairs and would pull it up to the coffee table and get on and off.  Such fun for a boy!

Playing at GG’s

Ford loved playing with Bailey.  The days that Bailey was at work with my dad he would say Bailey’s name or “bark” all throughout the day wondering where his friend was.  Ford enjoyed enticing Bailey to come over to his high chair so he could touch his nose and liked petting him (which always resulted in laughter any time he actually touched any of Bailey’s fur). 

Ford also loved Nellie and actually started saying her name, in addition to “kitty” as well.  Ford would go looking for Nellie so that he could pat her on her head, or touch her nose.  I think we have an animal lover on our hands (which I love!).

On Saturday Ford met a new friend, Lila!  One of my very oldest friends, Gina, who was my best friend while we lived in Colorado (from age 3-7) drove down from Denver so we could spend some time together and meet eachother’s little ones (Lila is 3 months younger than Ford).  We met up at one of the nearby parks and played for awhile until it started to rain.  We then headed to my parent’s house to play some more and feed the kiddos dinner.  Ford took quickly to his new friend, and loved saying her name.  In fact, every time we passed a park in the days following their play date Ford said, “Lila, Lila.”  He has also said her name since, and it is just so cute!  

 

Ford and I were able to help my dad celebrate Father’s Day this year!  It was great to be with him and I can’t remember the last time we were together for Father’s Day.  We spent the morning at the zoo.  Ford fed the giraffes with Grandpa, but clung on tight as he wasn’t quite sure about being so close to the giraffe this time. 

I think his favorite animal this visit was the moose.  A few days before my mom and I were out running an errand and saw the cutest moose stuffed animal, so of course Grandma bought it for Ford. 

Grandma, Ford, and Moose

Ford quickly learned to say “Moose” and when he saw the real one at the zoo he was so excited!  He said “Moose” over and over as we watched the moose eat, then walk over to another spot, and finally rest right in front of us!  It was great and Ford loved it!  After Ford’s nap we went to a restuarant called “Nosh” which is a tapas type place.  On Sunday afternoons on their patio (which is completely fenced in) they welcome dogs to “dine” with their owners.  The dogs don’t have to be kept on a leash so they can run around playing with other dogs, and the restaurant even provides toys and two plastic swimming pools for them to swim in.  Bailey had a ball, and so did Ford!  It was such a great afternoon.  The weather was awesome and the patio was completely shaded.  In between different orders of food Ford was able to run around, chase Bailey, throw Bailey’s ball to him, and just have a great time.  That night his bath water was gray from all the dirt he aquired that day. 

Ford and Bailey at Nosh with the ball that Ford just threw to him

On Monday my mom, dad, Ford and I went to two different fountains for Ford to go in.  The first one we went to was “Uncle Wilber’s Fountain.”  Every so often “Uncle Wilber” rises up from the fountain and starts playing music while the water continues to splash away.  Overall I think Ford liked it, but definitely wanted my hand to hold tightly onto.  After Uncle Wilber’s we headed over to “America the Beautiful” park and fountain.  It was nice becuase it wasn’t quite as “forceful” and we could just walk in a shallow “river” of water.  It was fun to take Ford to the fountains for the first time and I know that we will definitely be back in summers to come!

Uncle Wilber starting to rise up out of the fountain!

At America the Beautiful Park and Fountain

Monday afternoon my Grandma came over to spend some time with us.  We all went out on the deck and Ford and GG blew some bubbles. 

I love this picture of my Grandma and Bailey

Then Ford decided he needed to give Grandma some tips on watering all of her flowers and tried to take over for her.

We all had a wonderful dinner together before it was time for Ford to get a bath and say goodnight.

Our visit was wonderful and we both loved our time in Colorado!  It was a perfect mix of relaxing, playing and adventures!   

Kiawah Island

Quite awhile ago our friend Chrissie sent out an email to some of our TCU friends about getting together the week of May 11-17 for a vacation to celebrate Travis’s (second) graduation from TCU (this time with his B.S.N.) on May 10.  It was eventually decided that we would find a house on the beach and we ended up in Kiawah Island, which is 2.5 hours from our house.  Late last Sunday night, May 11, the Vorels and Stuntzes flew to Columbia.  They stayed with us until Monday afternoon when they all drove down to Kiawah Island.  Ford loved having his Texas friends, Josh and Lillie Vorel and Thessalie Stuntz, at his house to play on Monday.  He even said their names, with “Josh” being the most clear.  On Thursday morning the Everlys flew into Columbia and after lunch we all drove down to Kiawah to meet up with the Vorels and Stuntzes.  Ford was excited to welcome Charlotte to South Carolina and loved having his friend ride with him in the back of the Yukon.  Amanda and I laughed as one of them would start making a sound and then the other would make the same sound in response.  They also reached their hands out towards the other, but their arms weren’t long enough to reach.  After unpacking our cars at the house all four families got in the pool for awhile.  Ford hadn’t been swimming since last summer, but enjoyed it.  In fact, he enjoyed the pool so much over our weekend that he now says “pool,” even spontaneously!  He also had fun that evening getting kisses from Charlotte and giving her high fives.  He hugged her once and then she gave him a kiss, and so then he kept leaning his forehead towards her to get more kisses!  The rest of the weekend any time I told him to give Charlotte a hug, he would instead go to her and lean his head out to get a kiss!  They are so cute together. 

Ford leaning in to get another kiss

Friday morning we had a slow going start as we just enjoyed talking and letting the kids play before we all headed out to the beach.  While at home that morning Ford, Thessalie and Charlotte had a great time on our bed playing with all of the bottles and toothbrushes in my toiletries bag.  They also enjoyed Charlotte’s booster seat anytime it was on the floor.  They each wanted a turn to climb in and sit down, trying get the buckle done.  Who needs toys when you have fun things like that around?

Of all the one year olds, Thessalie definitely loved the ocean the most!  She was so cute to watch as she headed straight into the waves when we got there and loved every minute!  Ford went in the ocean for the first time and seemed to liked it.  He held both my hands and we stood in the water so that when the waves came in, they came up to his belly button.  He also really liked it when I held him and dipped his feet and legs into the water, swinging him as the waves came.  A few times he also got on his hands and knees (usually after losing his balance when he wasn’t holding my hands) and just “sat” in the water, smiling as the waves came in.  After spending some time in the water Ford was ready to dig in the sand.  He got so sandy that day!  There was sand covering every inch!  Definitely a successful trip to the beach!

First day on the beach and headed for the ocean!

To see Ford and Jeff going in the water:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BP8QldQkV4E

Loved the water and now headed to dig in the sand!

Digging in the sand is hard work. . . and doesn’t leave much time to pull your pants up!

After naps Jeff and I took Ford to the nature conservatory just a few minutes away from us on the island.  They had some small animals, like fish, turtles, a bunny etc.  Ford also had fun just walking outside and climbing stairs he found.  Speaking of climbing stairs. . .  we had to block the stairs off in the house so that the little ones would not climb them.  They were all interested in them and would head towards the stair case and get frustrated that they couldn’t get up them.  Friday evening we all spent time in the pool again. 

Saturday morning Amanda, Courtney and I headed into Charleston and did a walking tour that ended with a glass of  iced tea and a cookie in the guides garden (Chrissie wasn’t feeling great so stayed behind).  We all loved our guide, an older British woman who was incredibly knowledgeable.  After our tour we had lunch and then stopped at Cupcake to get some dessert to take home to share with everyone. 

Ford enjoying sitting next to Josh on a foot rest while the moms were in Charleston

      

Saturday after the kids got up from their naps we all headed back to the beach for awhile, followed by another dip in our pool.  They all had fun again, as did we! 

Before leaving for the beach Ford and Charlotte realized that the stairs weren’t blocked. . . and the others soon followed!

Proud of themselves for “sneaking” up the stairs!

Saturday beach time

 The guys. . . Jason, Travis, Joseph and Jeff

The girls. . . Courtney, Chrissie, Amanda, Allison

Ford loving being dipped in the water and waves

Thessalie and Ford hanging out in the wagon on the beach

 Enjoying his time in his floating crab in the pool

Ford and Jeff relaxing in the pool with Lillie and Jason

 Our long weekend was such a great one.  The house we rented was wonderful and made for fun times.  Our evenings after the kiddos were in bed we spent cooking, eating, talking and laughing.  I am so thankful for our friends came out to South Carolina for their vacation and that we were able to join them!  We miss them already and Ford is wondering where all of his friends went.  We are looking forward to seeing them next time! 

A weekend with the girls

Last weekend I was able to go to Chicago to meet up with some of my best girlfriends from college.  We were all Chi Omegas together at TCU and share a special bond.  It had been 2 years since we had all been together last and we picked up right where we left off.  With these girls, time and distance don’t matter.  The love we have for each other withstands it all.  We left the kiddos at home and had a wonderful time talking, laughing, and just being together at Kelly’s house.  Kelly fixed a yummy dinner for us Friday night and we spent hours sitting around the table catching up.  We went downtown on Saturday and had an awesome lunch at the Grand Luxe on Michigan Avenue and then shopped a bit, although I am sad to say we didn’t find much.  Well, maybe I should say we didn’t find much that we wanted to pay for.  Either way, we had fun.  We also went to Navy Pier for a short bit, but it had started raining so our time there wasn’t long.  Amy, Dana and Court headed to Wrigley Field area while Mindy, Kelly and I headed back to Kelly’s in Hinsdale.  We all met back up a little while later and had a very yummy, quiet and fun dinner at an Italian restaurant in downtown Hinsdale.  On Sunday we were able to go to Todd and Kelly’s church and spent time just relaxing before heading out to go home.  It was so fun for the six of us to be together and have some great girl time, but we definitely missed Ashley and Laura who ended up being sick and not able to join us.  Our next adventure can’t come soon enough. . . although I think we will have to wait until next year.  I am so thankful to have friendships like I do with these girls and thank God for placing them in my life over 12 years ago! 

At the Grand Luxe Cafe

Mindy, Allison and Kel taking a break from shopping

Navy Pier

Amy, Dana and Courtney all decked out in their new Cubs gear!

When I got home Ford enjoyed some fun times crawling in and out of my suitcase.  Lucky for Ford the suitcase did not get unpacked right away so he had a few oppotunities to play in it.  He also enjoyed reading my book.