Cousins

I have a very large extended family and lots of cousins close to my age. I spent tons of time with my cousins growing up and have so many great memories. Countless days and weeks every summer were spent with my cousin Laura...who wasn't only my cousin but one of my best friends. I enjoyed shared family vacations at the beach and when I got older I loved going to Jimmy Buffett concerts with my siblings and all of my crazy cousins.

Clare and I tried to tell Ryan my hat wouldn't fit him.....

....but he insisted on wearing it!

To be honest, it makes me a little sad to think that Lily is so much younger than her cousins and wont have the same kind of experiences I had. I shouldn't worry. Lily's cousins were all so wonderful and patient with her on vacation (and all the time really) that instead Lily will have memories of her older cousins who positively adore and dote on her!

Dad Daddy and 5 of my 9 cousins: Sadie, Ryan (holding me), Katie, Christina, and Jamie.

Lily tolerates her car seat much better than she did when we first came home but it's still not her favorite place to be. I was a little worried how she would handle the 6 +/- hours in the car. Not to worry.....Beanie to the rescue! Christina rode in our car with us and entertained Lily with endless games of Peek-A-Boo and a steady stream of snacks. It's hard to believe that Christina is only 8 when you see how patient and kind she is with Lily!

Do you think Christina can see me?

Lily's cousins were a constant source of entertainment for her while we were at the beach. Each one of them spent time every day playing and interacting with her. Now that we're home I'm sure she must be a little bored with plain old Mommy and Daddy!

Me and Sadie soaking up the rays!

This big old jacuzzi tub didn't scare me at all since my cousin Beanie was with me!