Yankee Doodle Boy

For the fourth of July weekend, we traveled to Bristol (VT) for the festivities with the family. Almost everyone was going to be home, including Kari and McKenzie from Georgia, Cullen & Ki from Boston, and Chris, Tracy, Benjamin and Madeline from Virginia. It was a family of reunion of sorts, and we had a wonderful time.

When we arrived on Friday, we headed straight over to Aunt Con's where she was having her annual Kiddie Bike Brigade. Everyone decorated bikes, strollers and wagons, and Connor made a one-of-a-kind T-Shirt (unfortunately, no pictures available at this time - it's such a unique design we were afraid someone might try to copy it). We then headed out for our "parade" down to the park and back. Unfortunately, it DID rain on this parade, but we walked anyway. The kids had a great time, and Connor was very content eating his Lil' Crunchies - until pictures at the bandstand. Then it was time to throw a fit (after all - what would YOU do if someone asked you to stand still?). Connor also got to share a wagon with his cousin, Lauren - who's Mommy was VERY pregnant, but still managed to walk with us (more on that later). Later that evening we enjoyed a BBQ at Aunt Colleen's, and then off to the fireworks. Even though it rained slightly, it wasn't TOO bad, but Connor did NOT like the fireworks. He watched the first few, and then one came with a very loud BANG and he buried his head in my shoulder and didn't look back. Oh well, maybe next year!

Saturday morning we hoped would turn out nice, but with only a few patches of sun, we were in for a mix of a day. It only sprinkled during the parade, and Connor only cried at the guns being fired (of course it was right in front of us, too), but the rest he seemed to watch. He didn't seem very into it, but he was content (by the way, have I mentioned his high pitched scream made its appearance on several occassions? This is new, and boy did he use it in Vermont!). At the family BBQ at Aunt Colleen's, Connor had everyone running after him (running towards the road is fun), and he needed a little "quiet time" with Grampy inside. He eventually fell asleep on Grampy outside, which was heaven for our ears, and much needed for Mr. Grumpy Pants. There was, however, much excitement as Koran and Greg headed up to the hospital as baby Cousino was ready to come out! With the exception of my brother, every one of Greg's cousins (and for those who don't know, there's 21 of us first cousins) were all there to hear the announcement. Reed Francis Cousino is now our official Fourth of July Baby! We send our biggest congratulations and much love to Greg, Koran and big sister, Lauren! What a special day!

Sunday was the trip home and it was a beautiful day (of course). Connor was able to get a little sidewalk chalk action in before we left. We had a very nice time with everyone - it's always nice to see the family and to see how much the little kids have grown.



Grampy taking Connor for a ride in the wagon.


Connor's sidewalk art.

Connor at the Fire Station with Grampy.

Riding in the Fire Truck!

Watching the Parade with Grammy.

Connor found this old jeep and wouldn't stop playing with it.

This hat lasted about 5 seconds on his head.

Connor and Lauren in the wagon.