Week 44, Part 1: Memorial Day

Lots and lots and lots of pictures!

This was Rayler's second time at the lake, but the first time didn't really count because it was Christmas and he was to little to do anything fun. This time was chalk full of firsts, ear-to-ear smiles, laughs and big blue eyes just drinking it all in. I loved the joy of seeing the lake through his little eyes.

About two minutes after arriving he was already it outside heaven.

His face says it all

Trying to figure out the frisbee

He took a liking to Uncle Larry, followed him around everywhere

He is just dying to start walking

Playing with Uncle Marc and Dada

Eating a football

Ready, set, HIKE!

Playing soccer with cousin Noah

Kick that ball!

Someone is getting sleepy!

Getting ready for bed. His very first time sleeping in a tent! 

Yes, we sleep in an air-conditioned tent. 

I was so worried that the novelty of being in the tent would make for a terrible night, but he was so worn out that he crashed immediately

He didn't even wake up when I laid him down

Good Morning! At 5:30 am, those birdies are quite noisy!

Still sleepy

Grandma Linda introduced him to Batman

Rayler won!

On our way to check jugs with Dada. This will be his first boat ride!

He LOVES being outside. He could not stop smiling!

Helping Dada cast off

This was the only life jacket that fit him. Oh well. He would have hated a boy colored one too.

Can you tell how much he loves the life jacket?

Dada pulling in his jug lines

Boat rides tend to put little ones to sleep

Grand Lake may not have the prettiest or cleanest water, but it has it's moments of stunning beauty 

Kendra and Mady 

Tyler and Lucas

Sailboat!

Hm. We did have a few less than smiley moments.

Playing with Paycie

Nap two for Rayler, nap one for Dada

All this fresh air and fun has him exhausted!

First speed boat ride!

It was so windy that he couldn't keep his eyes open

Mady and Uncle Marc riding the UFO

Driving the boat with Dada

Uncle Marc pushed Mady over the side. 

First splash in the lake

He loved watching the girls jump off the boat

And here's the big first! Swimming in the lake! I knew he would love the water. Neither Tyler or I were dressed to swim so Uncle Marc took him.

What a big bathtub!

BIG splash!

He started shivering violently right away so that was the end of his water time.

Bye bye Mama! (I stayed on the boat just a bit longer)

Mady and Paycie

Nap Three! He just passed out while Aunt Teresa was holding him so I could pack up

Riding home