Happy First Birthday Elliot John Magee!

Presently, Elliot has a pretty limited repertoire of favorite foods -- bananas, blueberries, yogurt, milk, peanut butter. Fortunately, he will usually tolerate squash and sweet potatoes too. Hence, we enjoyed squash soup for Elliot's birthday dinner.

Cake time! Cora chose this special cake for her little brother. (Not pictured: the pink frosted cupcake Cora also chose for herself).

Elliot received some wonderful gifts from his Clerkin and Magee families. Cora was the most enthusiastic present-opener helper. Also notice the artwork behind Elliot's highchair; the picture on the right is a crown.

Elliot's big party! Thanks to Uncles Andy and Brian for this cute, personalized shirt. The perfect attire to wear to his first birthday party.

Lots of baby-approved food -- blueberry muffins, mini cupcakes, hummus, graham crackers, apples, bananas, veggies, chips... and wine, of course. 

Elliot had fun with his baby friends from the infant room -- Bennie, Torsten, and Elise.

Happy birthday, Mr. Elliot!

Time to open presents with Nonno Mark and Grandma Mel. We were so excited that they could celebrate with us!

Elliot John, thank you for making our family of four feel complete. You are such a sweet, snuggly, fun little (big!!) boy. We love you with our full hearts, and we hope that you never forget how truly special and loved you are.

Family Summer Vacation 8/2016 - Lake Michigan

For our "little" family vacation, we rented a cabin in southwestern Michigan. I loved spending time at Hagar Shore Beach, which was remote and relatively unpopulated. 

We enjoyed peach picking at Jollay Orchards, an eclectic and unique farm and market.

The tacos and donuts--a seemingly incongruous pair at this roadside market--were delicious!

Cora made sand art, had her face painted as "Hello Kitty", and caught a movie at the Loma Theater in Coloma.

Daddy's birthday wish was to eat at Silver Beach Pizza in St. Joseph, Michigan. I felt proud when one of the other customers stopped by our table as she was exiting the restaurant. She apologized for "staring" throughout her meal, stating that she thought my kids were "just so beautiful." :) 

Super Elliot! and the Silver Beach Carousel. 

Happy 35th birthday, Daddy! Where has the time gone? The painting is of Muckish Mountain, which is near where Josh's ancestors are from.

A final evening at Silver Beach.

       

Cora really got into helping to dig this hole.

So much joy! 

Sunrise, sunset.

Goodnight!