Spring Break Buddy

John Thomas was the best Spring Break buddy ever. He laughed at most of my jokes, wanted to do whatever I was doing, and never complained about my cooking. Although the better part of the week would seem boring to most (reading, napping, eating, playing outside, walks...), it simply couldn't have been any better. I hope that John Thomas and I both survive our first day back in school and the real world tomorrow, because it will definitely be an adjustment.
If he wasn't a momma's boy already, after a week of snuggling, laughing and shooting the breeze, we've both grown even more attached. In his eleventh month, he has sprouted his fifth tooth, claps pretty regularly, can wave goodbye (but rarely doesn't when anyone is leaving) and has learned a new word besides momma and dadda. Okay maybe he did or maybe he didn't, but I really think he's started saying "Chester." It sounds more like "chestw" but the inflection is exactly how we say it and he's said it three times in the last two days all while looking at the dog.

I'm still trying to figure out the caption for this facial expression.

As some of you already know, we ventured to Cincinnati to cap off our Spring Break week. Several of my college girl friends live their with their families, so it was a great time to get everyone together for a mini reunion. I'm happy to report that John Thomas was quite the sport about being in the car for four hours. The key is to put daddy in charge of wearing him out before his nap, so that by the time he hits the car seat, it's lights out. The weather was nice enough to go for a stroll yesterday along the riverfront. I learned that John Thomas takes much better pictures when he knows the person behind the camera.

Last night all the adults broke away for a very nice dinner at The Celestial, which has both fantastic views and delicious food. From left to right: Troy, Andrew, Jason, Katie, Jen (our gracious hostess for the weekend), Cara and Me. We had a great time and I am thankful that they were able to arrange for babysitters for all five of our kids.

I know John Thomas definitely made some new friends on this trip. I also learned a new way to make John Thomas crack up. My friend Katie, who really wants to be his new bff--but I think he's going to make her work a little harder, put him on her head. I wouldn't be surprised if he's sore from all the laughter. It was great to see some college buds and catch up. I am so lucky that this lanky girl from Powell ended up as roommates to some pretty great gals from Cincinnati, Nashville, and Athens.