Finn's new digs

From the very start of parenthood, we've tried really hard to minimize the number of baby items in our lives. But even small things took up lots of space in our tiny home. And as Finn grows, I realize the value of safe outdoor space for him to run and play. So, the third adventure of the summer included selling a condo, buying a house, and moving our lives a mile and a half up the street. Finn now has a huge, fenced in backyard to play in. I've already broken my rule about buying gear- the yard is full with a baby pool, water table, ride on toys, and a souped up play house (the latter came with our larger purchase). We still have rooms that are completely empty and some home projects ahead of us to make this house fit our style, but we're thrilled with our new home.

Helping us pack

So long, old house! 

Does this basement make his toy collection look sparse?

I'm just a very small boy in a big backyard.

Westward Ho!

At the end of June, Finn took his second trip of the summer to visit Nonnie and Papa in Montana. Aunt Ellie, and Finn's cousins Addison and Hadley came too. The days included swimming, swinging, playing in the woods, eating well, and sleeping hard. And of course (!) the Condon, Montana Fourth of July parade. It was fun to share my definition of summer with Finnegan.

As a side note, I really have to brag on Finn for his manners while traveling. I flew across the country with him by myself. To say I was nervous about this is an understatement. I was down right scared. Finn was WONDERFUL. I'll give him most of the credit, but some love needs to also go to the many strangers who helped us. They folded up his stroller, retrieved my bags from the overhead compartment, and made funny faces at Finn when he peeked his head over the seat. Love also goes to my more experienced traveling mamas who recommended gifts from the travel fairy, snacks for the road, and offered lots of encouragement. 

Life doesn't get much more idyllic, right?

Wait...yes it does. 

Helping Papa in the woodshed

Finn's first carousel ride

Finn and Addison

Swimming in the lake

Hanging with Papa

Among the Lupine

Making ice-cream!

Nonnie, Hadley, and Addison put on a cooking demonstration for us

Snuggled in

Waiting for the parade to start

Three little noodles

precious precious precious

Sun, Surf, Sand

Wow summer is flying by! These months have been stock full of activity for Finnegan (and for his mama, hence the very delayed blog post). I'll start with the earliest adventures of the summer...
In June, we joined Finn's grandma, pop, uncle Stephen, and aunt Jenny at the beach near Charleston, SC. This was Finn's first trip to the ocean and first time in sand since he could walk and experience it for himself. Finn LOVED the beach. He played in the sand, he braved the waves without a second thought, he collected seashells, and he ate boiled shrimp every day. Yup, the lifestyle suited him.

the cutest little sand flea ever

Cheering on the Charleston River Dogs

My favorite beach bums 

He couldn't get enough of the waves.

My favorite restaurant in Charleston (contact me- I'll give you the details).
Finn recommends the hushpuppies. And shrimp, of course.

13 hour car ride home. I won't say that this was his behavior the entire trip, but I was so proud when it was.