Great day

Today was such a nice day! It was a lazy morning. James woke and was a happy, content baby... he just coos and giggles in the morning... I just love it! I have to post this picture from 7/24 because I managed to capture his happiness!

I was a little tired because James was rolling and kicking last night. His days of sharing my bed are almost over. He will be moving to his crib upon our return home. I made French toast and Andy made turkey bacon and we (Andy, Suzanne, Mary, Jemma and I) all had breakfast together. Then I left the kids with GrandMary and went to church with Suzanne and Andy. I was very impressed with the minister and really enjoyed the service.

I miss going to church. I have no excuse for not getting up and going and participating. I was raised going to church and I think that it just feels good. I didn't go in college and have never started going regularly again. I don't know why... yes I do- I'll openly admit it: I am lazy and selfish. Selfish because there is so little time that we get to spend together as a family that I hate to share it with others... when we have time together on the weekend, I want to spend it at home with just my kids and husband. However, I do feel the need to make myself go more often, especially now that I have kids. I think that it is important for them to have a "church family" and understand faith and religion. If they choose not to go when they are older, then it will be their option... but I need to set the example and be a better parent.

Mary left for home (CT), which always makes me sad. I like having family around, especially for the kids. I am happy that my side of the family are 3 hours away... the trip is reasonable and they can visit pretty easy. Jim's side of the family is so much farther. Andy and Suzanne are 6 hours away (unless you are travelling alone with James and Jemma and it becomes 8+ hours), the grandparents are 9+ hours away, and Ken and Karen are all the way on the west coast! I grew up with all of my family so close... I was a very lucky kid. Of course, our family does make great efforts and I try to make sure that Jemma and James know that they have lots of family and friends that love them all over the country! Thank goodness for the internet and phone and mail!!! :)

We went for a nice walk around the neighborhood and we found a swing along the trail. Andy helped Jemma swing... she loves to swing. Suzanne kept me company on the trail... I stayed with the stroller as James napped. He doesn't nap well unless he is in motion... the swing, the car, the stroller... I hope he learns to sleep better soon. Since Jemma had no nap, tonight was the easiest ever getting her to bed. She was asleep before I could even get downstairs. James, however, fought sleep. Here he is "sleeping" with Aunt Suzanne in the hammock. Did I mention that I love visiting with Andy and Suzanne?!? I just noticed the time... it is almost 11... where did the day go?!? I must get some sleep myself... only 9 more days until my husband returns home!!!! :)