9.08.2010

Vacation!

Yesterday we returned from our first vacation with Declan in tow. We headed just North of Austin, Texas. The main reason for our DRIVE (crazy, right?) from Nebraska to Texas was my Grandaddy's surprise 80th birthday party.

To my complete shock, Declan traveled fabulously. The farthest he had ever been was about 20 miles outside our city so a 14 hour drive was a little ambitious. We had planned to drive overnight but, he was so easy in the car, we stopped halfway through and stayed a hotel to catch some zzzzs. I would like to thank my best friend Dora, endless snacking and new toys for the great drive. Here he is catching a nap driving through Fort Worth (notice how close people follow- even at 75 mph+):

The highlight of the trip was definitely my Grandaddy's party. It was at a beautiful vineyard in the country and it was full of family, old friends and great food. Some of my favorite pics of the night:
I love this picture of my Grandaddy and I. We've always had a special bond because we share the same birthday! A year has never gone by that we haven't celebrated together or at least spoke on the phone.
My brother's son and my cousin's son. They played together at this same age:
Declan and Nana (taken by my dad):
My babe and I:
My parents. They flew down. Oh, how smart.
Yes, it tasted as good as it looked:
I love love LOVE this pic of my Aunt toasting her dad:

What a fabulous vacay: 28+ hours of driving, 2 fun impromptu hotel stays (complete with room service and football- heck yeah), wonderful times with family, blast of a party, delicious restaurants and loads of memories. 

A couple last pics of our final night. We had the BEST shrimp tacos followed by dessert at a place called  Shakes. Oh, childless, that is. Thanks mom & dad! 




9 comments:

Crista said...

What a special time with family! And I love the nap picture with the ball. I applaud you braving the long drive. Sounds like some great memories were made. Thanks for always making me smile with your great pictures of precious Declan.

Kelly said...

What a special vacay! You take such awesome pictures! Congrats on the childless night out... we need those from time to time! :)

Anonymous said...

Wow, when I'm 80 I want my birthday at a vineyard! Looks like a great party, and Dora is awesome for long car trips with Evie too :)

Simply Complex said...

Shakes is THE BEST! I love them.

So glad you got to spend some time with your family. Last time we make a 9 hour (one way) trip, G did great, but then didn't want to ride in the car for a month. Ugh, I really hope that doesn't happen next time.

happymomof4 said...

Oh looks like a fabulous time!!!! LOVE all the pictures, looks like everyone had a memorable time. I can't get over the first picture of Declan sleeping and seeing the car behind you all- how close it was- CRAZY!!! Glad you all are safe:)

Melba said...

Happy 2nd birthday to the little man. I CAN NOT believe he's two already!

Melba

Gretchen said...

Hi there! Every once in a while I just hit that "next blog" thingy on the top of my own blog, just for fun to see where it leads...Today, it led to your blog! Your son is a doll and I love the family pics. Family is truly a blessing, and so are children. I wasn't really surprised that "next blog" had an adoption connection - as I have learned, and I am sure you all did too when you were in the process of adopting, God is in control.

So, just wanted to say Hi and that I your family pics are very sweet and I feel like "next blog" leading to yours was a great point in my day, made me smile!

Take care!

sarah @ life {sweet} life said...

Looks like such a great time! You take amazing pictures. :)

Christy said...

What a great trip, and so full of wonderful family memories as well.