The Mister and the Sister: Trip to Maryland

Recently, we went to Maryland to visit Mark's family. His sister, Laurie, and her family hadn't gotten to meet Lyla Grace yet and we thought a trip to see them was long overdue. It's not a really long drive (about 5 hours) but it was Lyla's first road trip. She's a city baby so she's on the subway a lot more than she is in a car. But she did great! On the way down we only needed to stop once for a quick feed and change while Mark took a conference call on his fancy new bluetooth. On the way back we made two bathroom stops, neither of which was for Lyla. She slept most of the way and played with her mini piano when she was awake. Mark multitasked in the car.

We arrived at Donna and Jack's house about 10 o'clock on Friday night and were greeted by two very excited grandparents. We were also greeted by some amazing lasagna, perfect after a long day. Lyla and I went to bed pretty early because we knew we had a big day ahead of us! On Saturday, I took advantage of the very-willing-to-watch-Lyla grandparents and went for a quick run. Even though I have been going to visit them for 10 years, I still don't know my way around the neighborhood so I stick to one road and run it back and forth. After I got back, we all went to see Kelly's soccer game. Lyla was dressed in the cute little dress Julia and Kelly got her for my baby shower.

We got to the game a little late so Laurie and Julia were already there and came to greet us. I was taking Lyla out of the car and I heard Julia's voice behind me. I turned around and was truly stunned to see such a grown up beautiful young girl. I had seen her about 5 months ago and I couldn't get over how grown up she had gotten in that time. She is gorgeous. It was so much fun to watch Laurie, Julia, and Kelly meet Lyla for the first time. Laurie is so amazing with babies, Lyla took to her right away.

Back at the house later that day, John and Nikki and their friend James came over and so did Sheila and Bob. We played pass the Lyla for awhile so everyone got to hold the little cutie. Kelly and Julia each took turns feeding her. They did great, but I think it was the longest feeding of her life. Lyla loved the attention so much she took about 2 hours to drink a single bottle :)