Monday, July 7, 2008

a weekend of firsts!

this fourth of july weekend marked many firsts for little declan. his first tooth (!) which sprouted through on the fourth of july itself, his first trip to the beach,and his first introduction to a real dog.

we started the weekend out in grand haven visiting my dad and shelly,aka grandpa and mimi. first, shelly presented us with a beautiful, custom toy chest that she has been handcrafting and painting for declan for months. it is spectacular and i will post photos of it soon because my description will not do it justice. it is in his bedroom and he's sleeping now! i regret not getting a photo of the artist with it, sorry shelly!

they live in a neighborhood right off lake michigan so the beach was just a hop and skip away. here is declan's first time in trunks and first time at the beach! i'm so glad it was grand haven beach because that is the beach i called home growing up. the lakeshore on the michigan side is very pristine and the perfect july fourth venue.




i put this picture in because it shows how LONG he is!!! he is like a giant baby! still way off the charts for length for his age

uncle andy, tim and declan... arriving at the beach.







back home for a delicious fourth of july bbq. we could not have ordered better weather!


aunt bonnie! his red cheeks and chin are due to the first tooth popping through earlier in the day

this was the coolest leather pig ottoman. it is the perfect size for a little guy learning how to stand on his own... just his height and soft in case he bumped his chin. he would get bored with all his toys and we'd just prop him up next to this pig and instant happiness. i need one for our house!

in the backyard before bedtime, notice the beautiful garden

the chef at the grill

uncle andy.

snuggling with aunt barb and ready for bed. he tucks his arms under his body when he's really relaxed and tired, so cute.

2 comments:

tina said...

How cute! Though I am disappointed that his trunks aren't madras! :)

Anonymous said...

It was great to be together on the 4th. Declan is so content around everyone! After watching him grow-up on your webpage - it was so nice to hold and cuddle him.
Love, Aunt Bonnie