The Expert

We have returned from our trip to Memphis where Farmer Dad learned about all things dairy and the Boss and I toured the luxurious Peabody Hotel. The Boss made quite an impression and received the royal treatment from the staff. He of course wasn't surprised and expected it. The three of us also took a little side trip to Graceland, the home of Elvis. The Boss was not impressed, so while Farmer Dad took his time and caught up on a little trivia, the Boss and I took the express tour. We finished by nursing in the gazebo next to the memorial. He felt this was not only necessary but quite appropriate. The 100+ degree heat was unbearable that day. When I commented to Farmer Dad, he laughed it off saying he works in it everyday. I reminded mister smarty pants that he didn't work in it with a 16 pound baby strapped to his front and that it really was time to go!

Leaving Graceland

While we were walking in Memphis, the sisters were living it up at Camp Nanaw's, the camp where dreams come true. In truth that is how it works. You dream it and the crew (the Awesome Aunts) work to make it happen. You dream that you had a theater? Poof! The civil war tent becomes Mockingbird Theater complete with lights, carpets, furniture, and plush chairs. It is the ultimate theatrical hideout for little girls who love to perform. You dream about being a famous chef? Poof! Dishes just the perfect size for small hands are found and before you know it you are making cobblers and casseroles and enjoying them with your own personal tea set. It is Disney without the high price tag.

Getting ready for Camp Nanaw

My girls love Camp Nanaw, and look forward to it every year. When they come home, we hear for a week how things were done at Camp Nanaw and how they wish they were still there. They make plans to build a house in the woods across the street or learn to fly so they can fly there everyday. None of these superior ideas are practical, so instead they have to be satisfied with recreating it the best they can. Yesterday we were  doing just that as they made baked apples in their tiny pie plates and brewed a cup of Sweet Orange tea.  The whole time I was coached on how Nanw did it. You need to use the butter on the dish Mom. Nanaw uses dark tea. We need lots of sugar. Don't double dip the spoon because the sugar will clump.

The treats were served and tasted. The Monkey sighed and looked at me. "You tried your best, and I don't want to hurt your feelings, but Nanaw just makes it better." Oh well, I'm not an expert...yet.

Notes From the Boss

I highly recommend the Peabody Hotel to any baby needing a little break from the daily grind. Crawling, eating, pooping, and napping can be such a drain on little fellows like us. Sometimes you just need to get away from it all and relax. The Peabody provides just the right balance of fun and rest. There is always something new to see and plenty of floor space when you need to stretch your legs. The food is spread on tables and you are encouraged to eat all you want. Just as it should be. Everyone appreciates your cuteness and are eager to wait on you. The pool is just warm enough for little bodies and nothing relaxes you more than a night swim. Should you crave a little night time fun, Beale street is full of crazies that never cease to amaze. Or, you can just go downstairs and talk to the family of ducks that live in the fountain.

Finally, when you are done for the night you can retire to your bedroom and cozy up in a fluffy bed just for you. Ah, good times. My only question is, "When do we go again?"

Spring Break

Spring Break sprung the sisters from school last week, and they wanted an adventure. Of course I didn't think The Boss was up for anything too crazy, so no partying on the beach. Also, Daddy had to stay behind on the farm because cows don't take Spring Breaks. So, seeing that it was just me and three, I chose to visit my mother, Nanaw. Her house offered adventure, excitement, and plenty of entertainment. As an added bonus, it was close to my Grandma and Grandpa, and I felt it was time for them to meet the newest addition to the family.

It was a three day whirlwind. They swam at Nanaw's Rec Center, hiked in Uncle Smoky's state park, sang along with Annie at the Community Playhouse, and painted the backyard treehouse with Cousin L. All of that on the minimum amount of sleep allowed by law. During all of that excitement, I received my first pedicure ever. It was amazing!

We even made that visit to Grandma and Grandpa's house.On that particular day, four generations were squeezed together under one roof enjoying an impromptu lunch. Nothing special...just some sandwiches, chips and a bit of gossip. Of course Grandma had made a cake. When my family gets together there has to be cake...and ice cream.

 It is hard for me to watch my grandparents grow old. I don't want to think that there might come a time when they won't be there.  As my sister and I nursed our babies, I watched Grandma who bustled around still in charge while the Grand Poopa sat admiring the chaos from his easy chair. I realized that though my grandparents may not be physically young; they will always be spiritually young as long as they have us to care for and love.In my mind they will never age, and they will always stay as vibrant as they were in my childhood.

Notes From the Boss

Yeah, I read Mom's post, but that isn't the whole truth. The Boss is here to shed some light on the sneakiness...the girl sneakiness. Yes, girls, and lots of them, stomped all over this happy break. If it wasn't for Uncle Smoky and Papaw I would have been the only man of the house at Nanaw's. The sneakiest girl of them all was Cousin O. Here I am trying to be nice (I'm the cute one in the ducks) and she screams, "Boy cooties!" I just thought she could share. It was sad people. But let's talk about Grandma's house. Girls everywhere you look. The Grand Poopa and I just stayed out of the way. Cousin D followed our lead. When you are toting this much cuteness around those GIRLS just want to squeeze you and kiss your cheeks.I'm talking scary here people. I stayed worried the whole time. I was so happy to make it back home to Dad. I'm still outnumbered, but at least I've got good 'ole Dad for support.