Happy 4th of July everyone! Anyone that knows me is aware of the fact that I adore this holiday. I consider myself very patriotic, love this country and have so much respect for our flag and what it means to have our freedom. We typically spend our holiday weekend enjoying God’s Country in the North Woods of WI. My family has a cabin in Pickerel which is about 3.5 hours north and middle of the state. It’s a small lake town, with amazing scenery, lots of wildlife and a total calming effect. Life is a lot slower and more simple up there and we try to go at least a few times a year. This past year my parents added an additional living space on the property, so there is plenty of room for everyone to spread out and get comfortable. Pickerel on this weekend each year is so near and dear to my heart for many reasons but mostly because of the amazing memories. Three years ago Casey and I got engaged on the end of the pier, we’ve had tons of amazing fire-side dance parties and alcohol induced belly laughs. This weekend was no exception – that’s for sure.
We got up early this morning and packed our car to the brim to head home and try to beat traffic (did you know babies have a lot of stuff? Case and I each had one bag and Dane had 4 – after this trip we’ve realized we really need a bigger vehicle – hello car shopping!) š Somehow luck was on our side and we cruised home with little traffic interference. The timing was also perfect for D’s morning nap – which ended up being almost 2.5 hours of our 3.5 hour drive, score! Speaking of, I really think Dane’s rounded a corner with his daytime napping – FINALLY! He’s never been a napper, I joke that he has baby FOMO but honestly it’s insane how little this child slept during the day as a tiny babe. You always hear people say babies sleep constantly… those people have never met our kiddo. He’s been battling a double ear infection for the past week (thank goodness for antibiotics!) and the first few days up north he was constipated which isn’t like him at all. This made for a little bit of a stressful situation, and lots of snuggles from everyone in the family. I have to give a shout out to my family, I am so thankful to have loved ones who are willing to step in and snuggle, change diapers, feed and love on our little guy so much. Anyway, Dane ended up napping a TON during the days… I have a feeling the combo of fresh air + lots of love were the main contributing factors. Like I said, today was a nice long morning nap in the car, and now this afternoon he snoozed again. Fingers crossed he has learned to love sleeping (because come onnnn naps are the bomb).
Today is also a big day because D is officially four months old! We spent a little time reminiscing about exactly what we were doing at this time 4 months ago, and it’s so crazy how quickly the time has flown. Our little guy amazes us every day with his development. A few of my favorite milestones: Constant smiles and giggles – especially the smiles we get after a day at daycare, recognition – it’s clear he knows who we are, and other loved ones as well, he’s starting to notice more about his surroundings (mostly the kitty, electronics etc), he’s SO good at tummy time and holding his head up! He loves standing and sitting with a little of our help, he’s drooling and putting everything in his mouth (I swear he’s teething, but his Dr. says not yet). He’s 13 lbs 10 ounces and 25 inches long (that’s almost double his birth weight and 5 inches longer too!) It’s true what they say – it goes by so quickly, so we’re trying to soak it all in.
I hope you all had a fabulous weekend, and a good week ahead. Summer is officially here and weekends are busy… just remember to slow down, and enjoy the freedoms we have been given. God Bless America!
Staying Martha 