(Fertility, Pregnancy & FINALLY) Parenting Adventures ... Times 2!: Our Adventure Continues

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times ... (I asked Steve for a journaling prompt and this is what he gave me!) Friday, after our big night of burgers, dogs and fireworks, we went to spend the afternoon with Bill, Elise, Will and Caroline, who were in town visiting their friends the Hinkles. Steve and I used to babysit Will, Caroline, Conner and Carly back in the day. Oh how far we have come! It was good to see the Hinkles again (not to mention their great pool), though it makes me feel old to see how the kids have grown. It won't be long before Caroline and Carly can babysit Samantha! Steve - big surprise - was on the golf course with an old high school buddy while we soaked in the rays. Well, I soaked. Samantha slept under the porch in one of her favorite spots, Aunt Elise's arms.

With Carly and Caroline

Relaxing with Aunt Elise

Samantha sporting her new Fourth of July outfit (complete with matching bibs and headbands) picked out by Caroline and Carly

After we all showered off, we hopped in the ol' family truckster and blazed a trail down I-75 to Signal Mountain. Jeff, Elaine and Collin were in town to visit the Mitchells and take in the sights of Chattanooga. We had another great cookout with Bill at the helm and then enjoyed more fireworks courtesy of the neighbors. Samantha, of course, was doted on the entire time she was there. I don't think she minded. Even though she's only 2 months, you can tell she loves Elise and Caroline by the way she stares at them, like she already knows who they are. It's really sweet.

Samantha slept in Will's pack-n-play. It was in amazingly great shape considering we celebrated Will's 15th birthday while we were there. Samantha christened it, along with one of Caroline's baby quilts. Steve and I were introduced to the Wii Fit, and we now feel more out of shape than ever. (I'll take anybody on in hula hoop, though!) Caroline, our future baker, introduced me to some amazing cake decorating shows. Steve and Will won a close game of 2 on 2 versus Bill and Jeff. I'm not sure exactly what he "won" outside of an ego boost ... he could barely move the next morning! The best thing about being with the Mitchells is that we don't have to do anything at all to have a great time. It's just fun being together. Thanks for letting us crash your pad!

By the way, Elise, Steve wanted to make sure I gave you props for the roast beef ring. He asked that you make 2 next time we head your way - one for him, and one for the rest of us!!