Over the river and through the woods

It's been a busy week in Michigan so far. The flight wasn't too difficult, save 20 minutes of Bean's crying on the descent... we think his ears might have been bothered. We also experienced our first poopy diaper change on an airplane. Parenthood: every day a new adventure.

My plan to hand Bean off to our more-than-willing families and enjoy some R&R hasn't exactly gone as planned. But you knew that would happen, right? Deep down, so did I. Being 8 months old, he has both booties firmly planted in the wonderful world of separation anxiety and stranger anxiety. And what could be stranger than my family? (kidding guys) All this adds up to a clingy little cutie who wears me out even more than when we are at home. We've also had napping and nighttime issues as well. The naptime problems seem to be mostly resolved, as we've just had to be religious about respecting his sleep schedule. But he continues to wake up CONSTANTLY all night long. Sometimes only 45 minutes between wakings. We've tried various sleeping arrangements to no avail. Please pray for us.

Despite the sleep deprivation, we are enjoying the company of our families and visiting all the restaurants that we miss out West. Pancheros, Dos Pesos, Border Cantina, Olga's, Potbelly's, Hungry Howie's Pizza, Parmenter's Cider Mill... I think I've gained 10 pounds already. But as my dad wisely advises, we more often regret the things that we don't do, rather than the things that we do. I'm pretty sure he was referring to going out to eat.

Speaking of that 8 month milestone, Bean has been growing up right before our eyes. He has learned to favor us with high-pitched screams of delight, which is quite amusing (for now). We were in the produce section of the grocery store today when he quite happily decided that he wanted to hear the echo of his shriek among the apples. At this age, it's still cute. He also communicates much more with his hands. No sign language yet, but he has "gimme" and "get that stupid thing away from me NOW" down pat.

Here is the little man enjoying his second visit to the great mitten state:

Bean models the winter wear that Grandma M. bought for him.

Won't need it yet, though. Look at that gorgeous weather!

Great lakes, great times.

Fun new toys.

Camera strings taste good in any state.

So do sweet potatoes!

"You really ate all six spice donuts, mom?"