The 4th Day of July

Our 4th of July was nice and simple. Jon took the day off so we could head to the mountains to escape the heat. It was such perfect weather and Jon packed us a delightful lunch. He even packed enough to fill my bottomless pit of a stomach. When we got there, a parade was just finishing. I'm sad we missed it but I am determined to find us a parade next year. We toured some shops and met the cutest dog I have ever seen. It was so cute that I felt compelled to share my sandwich with it. Sadly, I did not get a picture. After shopping a bit and not spending a dime, which was our goal, we headed out on our little hike. We ate our lunch as we drove on the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway and saw some gorgeous views. Then we made it the trail head. The hike was a mile loop total and very simple. We hiked to a pretty waterfall and enjoyed the stream and plants along the way. Then, we headed back to the entrance where I nursed little J and we just enjoyed the beautiful weather. Then we were ready to head home. We got home and Jon made delicious fajita burritos while we watch the World Cup game. Jackson was a perfect angel all day and never even cried. We opted to skip out on the fireworks this year as they are way past our bedtime. Jackson didn't seem to be bothered by the fireworks but Callie was scared and had to sleep inside. Callie kept quietly sneaking to our bedroom but Jon refused to give in and eventually she fell asleep safe and sound on the living room floor. We had a perfectly simple Fourth of July, it was wonderful!

foot shot for Mandi

We are so grateful for all of our many freedoms!!!

Nap Time Woes

Naps have been horrendous at our house since about month one. Jackson naps for about 20 minutes on average. A good long nap is 40 minutes for him and those are rare. Yesterday was a long hard morning. I spent from about 9 until 1 trying to get Jackson to sleep. He kept falling asleep and waking up screaming and was inconsolable. It was like he had a bad dream or a night terror and couldn't shake it and he was still so tired. I laid in bed with him and got him to sleep for close to an hour but he woke up and was still a screaming mess. Maybe it is the teething, I don't know. I finally gave in and nursed him a bit and then rocked him in my arms while he slept almost another hour. Poor guy just can't nap good unless he is in the car or with us. We are working on it but it is hard and stressful. He can go all day without napping at all, it is crazy. So needless to say by about 11 in the morning I was worn out. I kept praying for strength and patience over and over. But, after getting Jackson to sleep in my arms, I felt relief and joy. I love this little man so much. After his nap I put him in his little seat and just prayed that I could eat for a few minutes while he was happy because I was starving. I looked down to see the sweetest face looking up at me. It helped me remember just how sweet and innocent Jackson is. He is such a wonderful blessing.