A lovely surprise package

Today there was a mystery package on my front doorstep when Leo and I got home from running some errands. It had a very industrious wrap job- a dirt devil dust buster box wrapped in duct tape. These days every package that arrives is for the baby so I just assumed it was for him but to my surprise it was addressed to me. It came from my brother-in-law, Jeff, in Atlanta. Attached was a shockingly sweet card that read, "Happy Mother's Day Summer! Can't wait to see the family in Wisconsin. Leo Couldn't be luckier (nor could Jon). -Jeff". I immediately welled up with tears. Inside the box was this beautiful ceramic bird which instantly became a prized decoration on my dining room table. Jeff couldn't have known how significant this would be on my first Mother's Day because I sometimes call Leo "my little bird." It is so special because it was totally unexpected (if you knew my brother-in-law you would better understand). I love being delightfully surprised by people.

Jeff, thank you from the bottom of my heart. This was so meaningful and so touching. You're my favorite brother-in-law.

Our first playdate!

Leo and I had our first play date with some new friends from Mommy and Me at the park. We had a really great time. It's true that, "tree's make the best mobiles." Leo loves the outdoors.....well, for an hour or two anyway.

My first Mother's Day

What an amazing day it was! I woke up to the sweet sounds of my baby boy cooing and babbling to himself. We all snuggled in bed for a while and then Jon and Leo gave me a precious homemade card and the very special necklace pictured above. I LOVE IT!!! Then we ventured out to the kitchen where leo gave his first go at the "Johnny Jump Up." Clearly he loves it! My sweet husband made me a scrumptious breakfast of homemade waffles, homemade strawberry syrup and homemade whipped cream. Mmmm mmm. Next we all took a drive up to Ojai to hit up the farmers market and escape the Ventura winds. Then Leo and I took a nice long nap. We followed that up with church and a delicious BBQ dinner. It was the perfect day with my two favorite guys.

I've told a few people how surprised I was at the sense of pride I felt on Mother's Day. It is the ultimate honor and blessing to be Leo's mama and Jon's wife- the mother of his child. I held my head so high carrying him around at farmer's market and then walking up to the alter with him in my arms at church for our special blessing.

Happiness is.........

Sitting on Daddy's lap, gumming my rattle while hearing a story.

Leo's first visit to Chico

My parents flew us up to Chico to show Leo off to all of our family and friends. We had a great time and are so grateful to have so many people shower us with love and support. Especially Grammy and Papa!

Leo's Baptism Celebration

Leo's proud godparents- Auntie Al and Uncle Mike.
Even 2 out of 3 of Leo's great grandma's were there!
The proud, parents, godparents and grandparents
He screamed his little heart out when Father Bob poured the water on his head
His gown was worn by his great grandfather on Jon's mother's side.