Horse Back Riding

It has been a desire of mine for a long time to go horse back riding. I just adore horses (all animals actually), but had never had the opportunity to ride one. Until yesterday.
For my 30th birthday (in March) my husband gave me a coupon/rain check for a horse back trail ride. We had a really wet and rainy month of March and it would have been quite miserable to go at that time, so we just held off until nicer weather and until we had an available weekend.
Well, we were able to take the time on a gorgeous day yesterday to get out and make good on that rain check. (It had been on my fridge taunting me for two months) :)

What an amazing time we had. I almost cried when we first got going on the trail because I was just so overwhelmed. And nervous. I was so nervous in fact that I thought I was going to be sick.
Horses are such strong, powerful creatures and it is very intimidating to be on one. I was scared to be the one in control of the horse, leading and guiding him. But it was an experience that I am so very glad to have had. And even thought I am sore and tired, I look forward to being able to do it again someday!

The many faces of Declan

While in CA last week, we visited my step-sister Alex and her husband Nick at their home. Alex got an amazing camera for her birthday and she was able to capture wonderful pictures of my sweet boy. He has such great expressions and they are highlighted in these photos. Enjoy!

Who Needs Toys?

Declan has many toys that he thoroughly enjoys playing with. We keep some of them in the living room and some in his bedroom. Most of the time he just puts them all in his mouth, but recently he has started doing more with them. One of his favorite things to do is bang them on a surface. Any surface. He likes to hear the different sounds it makes. He also seems really interested in books and is getting the hang of turning the pages by himself.
But, nothing beats playing with a box and a wooden spoon. Not traditional toys, but so much fun nevertheless!

Sharing Watermelon and Kisses

Ever since we gave Declan a watermelon rind weeks ago, he has been obsessed. I think he enjoys the cool, tough rind rubbing against his gums, and just can't resist the sweet juicy-ness of the watermelon.

Sean gave him one last evening because it was warm in the house and thought he would like it to help him cool down. As we were sitting near him watching him enjoy the treat, Elphie wandered into the room. Of course, Declan was thrilled to see her, and unknowingly took steps towards becoming her best friend. 

To California and Back Again

Declan and I just spent a week in the Napa Valley. It is where I grew up and where my family lives. My mom, brother and nephew drove up to get us and then we flew home yesterday.
It was a wonderful trip, where we got to see lots of friends and family and be pampered by my mom.

While I was there, I remember feeling nostalgic for that area and recalling fond memories of living there. It is a breathtakingly beautiful place and we were blessed with wonderful weather during our stay. It was great spending quality time with people I don't get to see very often. And Declan's Nonna (my mom) adored having us there.

I did miss Sean terribly and, on our last day there, I was anxious to get home. While the trip was wonderful, there is just no place like home, and wherever Sean is, that is home and that is where I want to be.