Sweet Home Alabama

Chipmunk Kisses with MiMi.

Getting ready for the day and riding in her new car seat.

Two weeks ago Everly and I traveled back to Alabama to spend the week with my family. We had an amazing time catching up with Mimi, Poppy, Fairy Godmother, Claire Bear, Nana, Jace, Aunt Mary, and Auntie Shay. Flying solo with her was a bit challenging because she is so "busy" now and unfortunately, a four + hour flight interrupts her nap schedule regardless of what time of the day you fly, but we survived and grew stronger in the process.

*Note to self: Wearing the Baby Bjorn during the entire flight is a MUST because holding a 17 pound baby for 4 + hours while walking back and forth (and swaying and rocking) in the back of the plane will do a major number on your arms and back. I felt like I had been beaten after the first leg of the trip, but going back home was a breeze because she actually slept and cuddled with me because it was so warm and cozy in the carrier. I also had access to my hands when she was in the carrier, which proves to be helpful when you are trying to wrangle an infant and keep her entertained for four + hours. I will always feel a little bad for the guy who had to sit next to us on the flight out to Alabama. Besides the fact that Everly went after his magazine several times, he also had to fetch items out of the diaper bag on a few occasions and even make a bottle for us at the end of the flight because I had my hands full trying to contain her. Bless his heart...the poor guy couldn't have been a day over 22 and he looked like a deer in headlights when I asked him to help me make the bottle. Luckily, he was a good sport about it, but I think that is only because I scared him when I told him that she was going to scream bloody murder if her ears started popping on the descent into Atlanta and the only thing that would prevent this was her sucking on a bottle. Needless to say, after traveling with us I am willing to bet he won't forget to use birth control anytime soon. :)

Regardless of how tiring and stressful it was to make the trip out to Alabama without Danny, it was SO worth it to see the joy and happiness that she brings to my family. We didn't really do a whole lot while we were out there because little Miss Everly is a creature of habit and deviating from her nap schedule is not good for anyone, but just having my family be a part of her every day routine was more than enough to make the trip worthwhile. Seeing every one's face light up every time Everly smiled at them, teaching Mimi the "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" rhyme, observing Mimi's pride as she strolled with Everly through town, hearing my Dad's genuine laughter every time he interacted with her, witnessing the chemistry she has with her Fairy Godmother, and watching my sweet little cousin Claire (who was born when I was her age) continue to build a special relationship with Everly were just a few of the priceless moments I will always remember from this trip. Spending time with my family reminded me once again what a lucky little girl Everly is to have so many people in her life that love and adore her.

The pictures below are just a few of the memorable moments I caught on camera from this trip (Tracy and Claire...where are the pictures of you guys with Everly??? I know we took some but I can't find them!).

Swinging with MiMi

Strolling through town with MiMi in her new stroller. Can you pick out the proud sausage in this picture? :)

Destroying Poppy's Sports Illustrated

Being a rascal with Poppy!

Hanging out before bed time!

Watching Curious George on the big TV at MiMi's house.

3 Generations!

Everly and Nana! Those two love each other! :)

Playing with her Fairy Godmother!