Proof James is our son

This reaction only occurs when James hears The Office theme song, which is quite frequently. If this doesn't prove James is my son, then I don't know what will.

Oregon!

Who knew that when I booked the flight to visit my family, it would end up being changed and extended about 7 times? Most of the times were intentional, however, at the end, the infamous San Francisco fog and aircraft mechanical problems kept me in Oregon even longer. I was in Oregon just about 3 weeks and loved every moment of it...almost. I could have done without the whole "we're going to have you board a plane at 5:15 am, finally put your infant to sleep, then kick you off the plane and have you fend for yourself with a teething and exhausted infant. Oh - and we are going to cancel all of your other possible flights as well" scenario.

One thing is for sure, it is quite the trip traveling with a helmet-equipped baby! It's remarkable how many people just sit and stare or "whisper" about it as if I'm not even there. Especially in a place like the airport! I would much prefer it if people would just come and ask me about it! My poor son is going to feel downright neglected when it comes off. I will be grateful just to be able to walk into a grocery store without feeling like I have a spotlight on my son! It's a good thing that MOST of the time I am a good sport about it.

Regardless, Medford was a blast and it was great getting together with the entire family! We were able to rent a house in Sunriver for a few days and enjoyed the crisp air, bike rides, great food, playing Mexican Train, and rafting. It was great being with the entire family (sans Chris and Cassandra's hubs Sam) for the first time in over a year! James loved all of the attention. In fact, since we have been home I've felt bad that he only has me all day.






After Sunriver, we enjoyed events such as...

A bug-eating contest....I declined to participate




Washing down the bugs with smores, roasted apples, and roasted banana deliciousness




Feeling like a kid again at the Science Museum



Channeling my inner child with a game of Bubble Bobble



Bowling, where I bowled the lowest score of my life




Visiting Ashland and Jacksonville




Shopping, shopping, and more shopping! You'd think I'd get sick of it!



Pedicures and lunch with the girls




Watching James and Suede become best friends



Getting back in touch with amazing friends and family




And best of all, Peter got his mission call to Campinas, Brazil!



All in all, this vacation was exactly what I needed! My batteries have been recharged, my wardrobe has improved, and I have come back with a few extra pounds (thereby making the newly bought clothes a tad too snug, yikes). I even managed to re-read the Eragon books and read Mockingjay (boo, that deserves a post all on it's own).

Since returning home, I have indulged in the typical "vacation after a vacation" rule and have enjoyed catching up on my recorded shows and finishing the Percy Jackson's series, which I HIGHLY recommend. What can I say, I am utterly addicted to reading! I suppose it's time, however, to get my house back in order and get back into cooking and eating right! Glad to be home, and begin planning my next vacation!