Calm before Crazy !

Last night we arrived at my parent's house late in the evening and since Elaina had slept most of the drive, she got her second wind about 10:00pm. This made for a late night for the three of us. She was so tired that she could barely sit or stand upright, but she didn't want to miss a single thing going on around her. Sorry to say that at 11:00 pm - there wasn't much going on. Poor baby girl was just restless and lay awake, flopping between Eric and me for nearly an hour before she gave in.

Needless to say that 6:00 came early this morning for Eric and my dad who were headed out fishing on Lake Erie for the day. Little Miss Sunshine awoke at her usual 7 a.m. and a loving, willing grandma fed Elaina her breakfast followed with lots of hugs. Aahh... this mommy got to sleep in ! No steadfast, tight plans for this family. Just an easygoing, relaxed kind of day. I love it already !

The three of us did make our way over to Eric's parents house where Grandma and Grandpa W. gladly offered to watch Elaina while my mom and I went out to stock up on menu items for tomorrow's party. Although, I love Elaina more than anything, I have to admit that there is a certain freedom with going to the grocery store by yourself from time to time and browsing at my leisure without two grabby little hands picking out items all on their own.

With our shopping list complete, my mom and I made our way back to the in-law's house and along with Grandma W. we began preparing as many dishes as we could the day before our party. It's amazing how much can get done in a short amount of time with 3 diligent workers joining forces. What a team ! I could certainly get used to that !

Soon we were finished and it was time for Grandma H. to go home and Eric was headed back from the Lake. We still had a party to go to tonight. Friends of ours were hosting a retirement party for Jake, the dad, who was retiring after nearly 35 years at the GM plant. Our friends had come from North Carolina and Stow to celebrate and surprise their dad with the party. We had a great time showing off our big girl and catching up with old friends !