no place like home

We are finally back from our trip to Cali. Whew! =) It was wonderful being there for Jimmy's graduation, seeing extended family, and going shopping! =) But we missed home something fierce. During the trip, William woke up several times each night partially because he's teething, but mostly because he had a hard time getting settled in new places. That left me exhausted during the day since I couldn't nap. And since we were out during the day, William couldn't really nap either. So by the end of our stay, we were both extremely tired. I don't think William could have taken much more of all the travelling we did. =)

At the same time, Bill and I feel incredibly liberated knowing now that we can take baby to places and not stress about him missing his naps. In other words, he'll still be ok if he misses a nap or two. =) Not that we would take him out haphazardly, but I usually stayed home during the week and limited my outings to once a week, so I would be sure William was getting the sleep he needs. Besides, I think it's good for him now to get used to different people and places.

God was amazingly kind throughout our trip. I think it also helped William to learn to be more flexible. He has started to learn how to fall asleep outside of his crib. =) And he was generally a happy and good baby most of the time. He did have his moments of crying, but they were so few and far between. Surprisingly, he wasn't afraid of people and made friends everywhere he went. =) We are still amazed at how much mercy God poured out on us. William also did great on the plane ride home. He had one major crying spell, but then konked out for over an hour. We were home before we knew it.

THANK YOU to all who remembered us in your thoughts and prayers. We really experienced God's grace each day we were there, especially William. =) And we were touched by all the prayers that went out on our behalf. We can't express how grateful we are for everyone who contacted us to let us know how they had been interceding for us. Thank you for how you have cared for our family through your prayers!!! Although William may not remember his first major trip and plane ride, we will remember it and recount how God was so faithful to answer prayer and so generously poured out his grace on our family.

Some highlights for you...

The best sushi ever!!

Eating his prunes at the beach....

Manhattan Beach