Cleveland

The first stop on our vacation was to visit Nana and Pop-Pop in Cleveland. Clare had lots of fun.

They had a great pool for her set up on the deck. Clare loved the pool. Right up until the point that Daddy, in his infinite wisdom, turned the hose up on the dolphin sprayer. Clare was not so thrilled with getting sprayed full force in the face from Mrs. Dolphin. After some kisses to both Mrs. Dolphin and Clare, the situation resolved itself. The pool was so great that I looked for one in Cincinnati so that I could lay out in it. Then I remembered that I don't "lay out". In fact, I don't really like the sun (and it doesn't like me). 'Cause I burn. This marshmallow burns so fast it's not even funny. Clare and I share sunscreen. So, that idea was quickly shelved.

We went out to eat at the always yummy Noble House, where Clare made friends with everyone. Clare ate lots of yummy food with Nana and PopPop. She does however, have Nana wrapped around her little finger. Nana respectfully declines in feeding her the yucky stuff. Clare can con Mandarin oranges out of Nana faster than I can change a diaper.

Clare also was able to meet up again with my roommate from college, Rachel, who is pregnant (yeah-Congrats:). Rachel gave Clare her first birthday present of the trip:) Clare was very interested in the tissue paper idea. One of the gifts has been a source of controversy at our house. Rachel bought Clare these great ABC Sesame Street flash cards. They are huge and super cute. So, yesterday, our first Monday back, I pulled them out and began playing with them with Clare. Clare had different ideas. She loves them and thinks everything Elmo related belongs to her. So, a small tug of war ensued with me softly explaining these are Mommy's cards. Mommy is sharing them with Clare to teach her all about the ABC's. It ended with Clare crying and Mommy virtually jumping up and down screaming "mine". It was not a pretty sight. Thankfully, Clare can't argue yet and point out that they are in fact hers. So far, the score is one for me. Although, I'm not sure a temper tantrum with a one year old is quite the "win" I was hoping for.

All and all it was a great week in Cleveland. Be sure to check back for more pictures and details.