Summer time Grilling and Bike Rides

I love summer and the best parts about it are being outside and grilling out!  Luckily, we got to do both today.  The sun only peaked through the clouds, but it was still warm enough for a bike ride and for Keith to throw some steaks and corn on the grill.  Such a special day.

Thanks to the Dawsons for letting us borrow their bike attachment - we are checking it out to see if Samantha would enjoy one, if we got one.  She was on the fence about it, as you will see.  But, it is a nice way to get the whole family out.

Initial reaction - I think I'd describe this as pure panic.  I'm thinking that her thoughts went something like this "WHAT IS THIS DEATH TRAP YOU ARE PUTTING ME IN!?"  We just kept promising that it would indeed be fun and that a "cook" (cookie) would be awaiting her return.  Yes, I am not above bribery. ;)

Okay, better without the helmet.  But still some resigned hesitation -- the apprehension is written all over her face.

One last look before the tarp came down and the ride began.  Frankly I don't know why she seems so traumatized...I'd much rather sit in a cushioned seat with someone driving me around than have that bike seat wedged up my butt the whole ride.  ;)  Kids have no idea how good they have it!

Finally we got going and it was actually a lot of fun and Samantha truly seemed to enjoy herself!  I thought this contraption was SO cool - baby was rolling in style (thanks Heather for the Cadillac of rides for her). ;)  

As great as it was to hear her laughing or talking to the things around her, I have to say that I am no bike rider.  After 2 bike rides today and an hour workout this morning, I am sore and feeling much older than 30.  Ouch!

Lastly, the night was ended with Keith's grilling cuisine.  Samantha quickly noticed and became fascinated with our corn on the cob.  We tried to shave some off for her, but NO she wanted to whole cob to eat from and boy did she!  I think we can succesfully add corn to the veggie-like menu. :)

Tuckered out!

So sad - Mom and I turned away for a minute while Samantha was eating dinner in NC - when we looked back, this is what we saw. Pour baby was SO tuckered out that she fell asleep eating. ;)

One More Trip on the Newbrough Express -- CALI!

So, if you can't tell this past 6 weeks has been a whirlwind of company and trips. To jam pack all this in 6 weeks wasn't deliberate, just the way it worked out. Needless to say we are worn out and glad to be back home! But, what wonderful memories we made.

Here are some pics from our last trip to San Diego, California for a conference Keith attended. We tagged along for a whirlwind 5 day trip to the west coast. It was worth it, despite the exhausting travel and time change. Samantha is a pro at traveling, esp. considering she is only 16 months.

Make your own free photo slideshow

Family, Sunshine and Good Ole NC

We finished off my 30th birthday celebration with a trip to NC. We had so much fun with family. Samantha, esp. ate up the time with not only Nana and Papa, but the kids. SO MUCH FUN!

 Hanging out with Uncle Brian (don't tell Daddy, but I had a crush on him ALL week!)  shhh..

Having fun at the Cole Brothers Circus in Washington, NC.  So mesmerizing for kids and adults.  In another life, I want to be in the circus -- just not in the lion's cage. 

Allyson and Samantha were buddies -- they kissed, hugged, and talked!  Too cute!

Miss Independent

My sister, my friend -- SO wonderful to have some quality time with Tara.  Tara -- I enjoyed shaking my hips with you at those Zumba classes.  Can't wait to take it from you this August - so jealous! :)

Nana, Papa and Miss Sami -- by the end of the trip she was a pro at saying their names.  :)  Though "Nana" usually equated outstretched arms and "ehhh" -- meaning "pick me up NOW!!" :)

Still my Daddy's baby -- even with my baby in my arms. :)

Cherishing in some one-on-one time with my Mama!  BTW - a major shout out to my Mama for her amazing 15 layer chocolate and eclair filled cake for my birthday -- I am drooling just thinking of it! :)

Can't beat waking up to that view every morning -- I miss it already!

Our Little Nomad

Samantha just hops in the bag and starts pulling items in with her.  Think this is a sign we have a budding nomad on our hands - welcome to this crazy family little one!