3,359 miles

We drove home for the holidays and saw both our families! Sounds so normal but for us that meant driving to the suburbs of Chicago and then to Waco, Texas. Armed with books on tape, a portable DVD player, and all the gear a baby could possibly need for two weeks away from home, we drove north. Josiah did pretty great in the car; I just need to stay in the back to entertain him. Steve was stuck driving and I was a human pacifier a majority of the time :) 

On the way back we stopped in Myrtle Beach, SC for some outlet shopping with Christmas money we were given :) 

First stop was Arlington Heights, Illinois. I'm getting better at packing for Chicago weather - it was cold, but I was prepared. The first time I visited during winter was in 2008. I was so excited to be engaged and together with Steve, but after a day I told Steve he had to drive me to the nearest Walgreens so I could buy tights to wear under all my pants. This southern girl was cold! This trip we found a good balance between running around seeing people and relaxing at home while Josiah napped. Babies change everything.

My baby discovering Chicago's cold winter

Lots of good time with cousins

With Grandma

Christmas Eve

Christmas morning

Cousins with Grandpa

Uncle Lez noticed Josiah's two new teeth first! 

On the road again

Next stop - Waco, Texas. Home of Baylor University where my brother and sister-in-law are working on their Ph.Ds.  The Cleveland's chose to gather in Waco because Lindsay had our beautiful niece, Mariam Charis, on December 7th. Brave woman for having guest so soon after having a baby! She looked great and flourishing in new motherhood.

Cooking in the kitchen with Uncle Drew

Steve working his baby magic on Mariam. Love her red hair!

Yummy, shrimp and grits on New Years! 

Josiah is such a joyful baby. Laughing and smiling at everyone. 

Scott & Lindsay had Mariam baptized while all the family was in town. Since we live so far a part it was sweet to be part of such a special event.  We played lots of board games, ate good food and spent time catching up. Our New Year's Eve was low key. On New Year's day, Steve & I actually went to a movie together for the first time since Josiah was born! Les Miserables was amazing!

Sweet little girl looking at her daddy

It was crazy to drive that many miles with a 8 month old but worth it :)