Summer recap...kinda

It's October already, crazy huh? At times I think, "is it really ONLY 11 am?" Then there are moments like these that I'm in shock with how fast time has gone while being here in NJ. This summer has been a complete whirlwind of vacations, unplanned adventures, and exploration. I am having the time of my life living in "The greater New York area." There is so much it has to offer and we've been trying to take advantage of it all. To say that I love it is an understatement.

As I've been writing, I've been trying to think of everything that we've done this summer and it's just becoming a blur...subtle hint that I need to be better at blogging right after it happens. Anyways, here are a few highlights from this summer.

For Father's Day, Kellan and I made some salt-dough hand prints for David. Being a little over a year, Kellan didn't comprehend that all he needed to do what smash his hand down. I don't know how pinterest-mom's do it, this was by far the best one we got that afternoon. The other two are mangled abstract messes that will be cherished for years to come. While it may not be perfect, I feel this describes Kellan perfectly. 

After a few weeks of being in Kearny, we happened upon THE BEST diner around, Tops. They have a menu a mile long and every item is made with love and is delicious. Red velvet pancakes? Yes please! There is nothing better than dessert for breakfast. This diner is the reason I have to workout.

Each time we visit NYC we try and go to a different place to eat. We happened upon Angelo's Coal Oven Pizzeria one night and it instantly became our favorite pizzeria to date. The margarita pizza was to die for. The crust was crispy on the outside and soft and airy in the center. The mozzarella was fresh as the just-picked basil the placed on top at the end, it was perfect. That was the night Kellan fell in love with pizza as well. 

With a splash pad down the block, we spent almost every day playing with neighborhood kids in the hot summer sun. David even joined in on the fun on the weekends-it was great! 

At the end of summer we spent a few weeks back in Ohio with the whole family. Kellan had a blast gardening with Grandma Robin, and also helped her at work one morning. He also spent some good quality time with Grandpa Bryan doing yard work, boating, frequenting Dairy Queen, going to the pool, and taking walks around the neighborhood. 

Best garage sale find ever! 

Kellan and his cousin Brooklyn 

After a nice trip to Ohio, my sister Jana came and stayed with us for a few days to tour NYC. We had a BLAST!! There's nothing better than adventures with your sister. 

While these pictures are just the tip of the iceberg of our many adventures, I think it's clear that we are loving our new home and taking advantage of every opportunity it has to offer. 

So I have a kid...

At times the only thing keeping us both alive is this gate...and then there are other moments such as these that make it all worth it. 

ONE YEARS OLD!!!! (the first of a few celebratory posts)

It's hard to believe that a whole year has gone by! I remember the days leading up to Kellan's birth and while they seem a little hazy, it still seems like yesterday. Words couldn't even begin the amount of joy that this little guy brings into our lives. From his morning hugs to tub time at night, Kellan radiates happiness. I am SO lucky to be his mom. 

It was hard to narrow it down, but here are a few of my favorite pictures from this past year-and believe me, there are more to come!

 

While most new mom's look pristine after giving birth, I look like I got beat up (awesome) but, I still love this picture of us.

One of my favorites from his first month

Meeting Tante Jana for the first time! 

Kellan and Monk-Monk! BFF's since birth

Kellan was born at 5:06 pm, and David had to leave for his flight back to Thailand at 4am the following morning. While they were able to skype, Kellan and David officially were able to hang out When David came back in August. This is one of my favorite pictures of their first day together again.

Cookies with Grandpa B! Seriously, he has the juiciest lips ever! 

I love morning cuddles :) 

Our first time to NYC together! 

not the most flattering pic, but those lips kill me! 

Kellan can even make being sick look cute...

Kellan and Grandpa Bryan have a very special bond and I look forward to many more fun memories with them causing trouble! 

Kellan and Grandma Robin! 

Kellan LOVES to facetime!

Kellan gave me a fist pump for his chocolate chip muffin I let him eat in his seat. Worst decision I ever made, and he will never eat food in his car seat like that again, but I did get a good picture out of it. 

Kellan has always loved going on walks! 

Loves his bowties! 

Kellan had a great birthday party with some of his friends! 

I could talk until my face went blue about my little man, I love him and am so grateful to spend my days playing with him and helping him learn. I am overwhelmed with how much joy and entertainment he brings into our lives. I love my little man!