First Vacation!

If you would have asked me two weeks ago if I thought travelling 718 miles with a 2 month old would be doable, I would have said yes. My theory was put to the test this week, as my parents and I travelled to Atlanta via SUV with Leah (and all her mountains of STUFF) in tow! Well, we are home, and guess what? I still say it is doable! It was actually much easier than expected, and I am so thrilled that we took the chance at an adventure. It was well worth every on the road pumping session (I think I inadvertently gave some truckers a show), crying spell after being stuck in the car for hours (from all three of us- haha), diaper blowout in the car (and the floor of the Nashville Waffle House- woops), and "Pack N Play" breakdown and put-up (my Dad re-named it the "Pack N Blow Your Brains Out").

See, this was not just any old vacation- it was a mini family reunion with a very special occasion mixed in! My cousin Josh was marrying the lovely Megan on May 7, and most of our huge family was making the trip to go share in their fabulous celebration. Paul and I talked over and over about what to do, as I did not want to miss the wedding OR the chance at a long overdue visit with family. My Mom is the third of nine kids, her Mom is about to turn 90 and still doing great, and I have 24 first cousins and 3 second cousins. With in laws and little ones, our family total is well over 50 and counting. Not only are we big, but we are close, supportive of one another, and addicted to being together whenever possible. My uncles are the funniest human beings I have ever met, my aunts fabulously sweet and hilarious themselves, and my cousins are too good to be true. How do we pass up the chance to see just about everyone in one trip?We bit the bullet many weeks ago, and decided Leah and I would drive down with my parents, and Paul would fly down to meet us, as he didn't have many days off to take.

Turns out, we made the right choice. We all had a fabulous time, and enjoyed laughter beyond measure, hugs galore, fabulous food and drink (thanks to our gracious hosts, Uncle Dave and Aunt Louise), and a beautiful wedding with a glowing bride and groom. It was a wonderful week, and although it is great to be home and settled again, I find myself missing everyone, especially my Nana, every day. Good thing we have another wedding to look forward to in just a few weeks right herein Chicago!

Our Nana, pictured here with 14 of her 25 grand kids, and all four of her grand-daughters (with another one the way)! She is just the BEST in every way.


Two of the most beautiful flowers girls ever, darling Madeline and Rae.

Josh and his glowing bride, Megan.

Some of my fabulous Aunts and Uncles!

My Nana, one of the greatest people ever put on this Earth, if you ask me (or any Pank, for that matter).

Midnight jam session at the house!

This was how I spent my very first Mother's day- with my Nana, Mom, and daughter. I will never, ever forget how special that was to have all four generations together on that day.

LiLi loved talking to Nana!

Leah's first boat trip! Thank God for sunhats!

On the road from Nashville to Atlanta.

Mary Elizabeth loved Leah. She is going to be a darling big sister! She kept giving hr hugs and kisses all day.

The view from Uncle Steve and Aunt Ei's house on Lake Lanier. So gorgeous!

Above, all the ladies in the family flanking the matriarch. Below, the darling guys. We are so blessed!

It was a trip we will never forget, and a great lesson in "life is too short". Sometimes stuff may be a pain to deal with, but it is so worth it in the end. Cheers to not missing unforgettable opportunities!