We just returned from a whirlwind two weeks in Michigan. This two week summer trip is my favorite of the year, and this year's was even more special since I got to have uninterrupted time with Zoe while introducing her to all of our extended family and friends. It is so fun to think of this as the first of many trips home, the first time playing with her cousins, swimming in her grandparent's pool, touching Lake Michigan with her toes...so many fun times- this trip was just the starting point!
Zoe's changed so much over the past few weeks, and even in the past few days. She can now roll over and reach for a toy, which she does while grunting like a weight lifter. I guess I didn't realize what a strenuous task being a baby is sometimes. And in the past day or two she learned to giggle like crazy. My friend Gretchen started her on it, and true to my word I copied exactly what she did the moment she left and it worked for me too!Here is a series of "firsts" for Zoe:
Meeting aunts, uncles, and family friends for the first time at her Great Grandmother Jeanne's 90th birthday party.
Celebrating the 4th of July at the East Grand Rapids annual parade, and going for a swim. (She doesn't look like it hear, but Zoe really did love the pool!)
Getting to know Grandpa Garth and Aunt Stephanie.
And Great Grandma and Great Grandpa Lange....
Playing next to her cousin Connor, who she's sure to be running around after in future years.
And being held and looked after by her big cousins Marah and Liam...
Family style dinners (can't have a table like that in NYC!)...
Going to her first outdoor music concert...
Participating (sort of!) in her first game of mini-golf!
And getting a view of Lake Michigan from right outside the cottage in the Upper Peninsula.
These firsts, and so many more, made for such a wonderful two weeks at home. It was so great to share our home, our favorite places, and our favorite people for the first time.
And in future years, she can join us...
For a bonfire and s'mores on the beach...
For day trips with Granddaddy and Grandma....
And for Grandpa Garth's fireworks!
I hope you are enjoying your summer as much as we are! All the best!