New Mexico

My second country-spanning trip with T went wonderfully. He is getting to be a regular jet-setting toddler. I use the word toddler because that is what he is doing...toddling. He's turning corners and maneuvering quite well, but still crawls part-time. Anyway, our visit was full of good homemade food and cuz-company. Theo got a good introduction to his cousins whom he has not spent time with beforehand...I knew a fly-by would not quite do it so we went for a week and got the full taste of the Vest household. It was busy for him to say the least, and exciting. I'll just say that he doubled his solid food intake per meal. Wow, talk about a workout! Overall it was relaxing and enjoyable. We look forward to seeing them this next weekend as they swing by Indiana on their own road trip around the country. I hope the Vest kids know how special they are. I can already foresee a glimpse of the amazing adults they will become. I applaud Jason and Heather for raising three (and surely more) wonderful and loving beings that will contribute significantly to this world and to those around them in their own unique ways. Not saying that 3 are not a handful, but they are the kind of parents you want to have a big family.
Well, we are back and Derek has been busy. While we were gone he replaced our LR carpet with wood flooring and it is so incredibly nice on the eyes and my sinuses. Once we have the room set up I will post pics of his hard work. Although he will sigh and tell you the horrid details of the heat index and hard work if asked, I think he is secretly satisfied that he created a beautiful space that has changed the way we see our living space and habits. I hope we can keep it simple and open, even with a child. Thank you Derek for doing it and doing it while I was NOT there! Bravo!
I hope to see more friends and family soon. The coming holiday (to blow things up for America!!!), birthdays, and a wedding will keep our summer full of good company. See you soon!