Dollywood

If you know my family then you know that every summer we go to Dollywood. My family is big on traditions and this is definitely one of my favorites. It was so much fun going with everyone especially with it being Eli's first year.

D-D-Dollywood and P-P-Pigeon Forge

(Lisa that's for you)

We also went to Splash Country, the waterpark right next door. I was a little worried with how Eli would like it. He absolutely loved the water. By the end of the day he was worn out.

In the big tub

More Dollywood

...until next year!!

Sound asleep

These past few weeks Eli has been going through yet again another "phase". He would only sleep for maybe an hour during his one and only nap. And when it was time for him to go to sleep at night I would have to rock him until he was sound asleep. If I laid him down before he was asleep he would scream. I would try and let him cry it out. And that is exactly what he would do...cry and cry and cry and cry. I felt horrible. But today gave me hope. I know I am probably jinxing myself by celebrating too soon but Eli took a 45 min nap this morning and then a 2 1/2 hour nap this afternoon and I just laid him in his crib for the night while he was what appeared to be wide awake thinking here we go again but he didn't make a sound and is now fast asleep. Oh I hope this is a new "phase!"

This was from earlier this week when I took Eli with me for a run. And yes it was one of his only naps that day

run...run...run

Last weekend Elizabeth, Lindsey, one of our friends Sarah, and I ran the 10k Riverbend Race. It was my first race since I had Eli and was actually a lot of fun. I finished in in about 52 mins. which I was very happy with. I think the fastest guy ran a 5.15 min/mile which is crazy!! We did it to finish it which we all did and are currently planning for our next race in August!! I do have to say it was quite enjoyable to do something just for me.

Take me out to the ballgame...

Eli went to his first Braves game on Friday. I was a little worried with how he would do since the game didn't start until 7:30 but he did AMAZING. We didn't have to get up with him at all the whole game. He even sat and watched the fireworks without crying. I guess he really is a true baseball fan.

We were also able to stay with my brother Paul and his wife Sarah that night so we could go to the temple Saturday morning. It was a well needed trip. Thanks again guys for watching Eli and letting us stay!!!

Oh, Eli turned 10 months old on Sunday...He is getting so big. I know we all say it but I really can't believe how quick he is growing up. He is everywhere and into everything and I know it will only get worse when he starts walking. He pulls himself up on just about anything. He has even let go a few times to stand on his own for a few seconds. He is pretty much done with baby food and will eat just about anything. He LOVES sweet potatoes, chicken noodle soup, green peas, and mandarin oranges (and chocolate pudding what can I say he takes after his momma). He is still babbling all the time. He finally is starting to say mamama. yeah!!!

I am not sure how we figured this out but he is completely memorized by Finding Nemo. He won't watch any other movie just Nemo. It is nice to know that I can turn it on while I get ready without him trying to crawl up my legs.

Yes he can be a handful at times but how can you not love the little guy I know I do!!!!!