The Paisers: September 2009

Sorry for the monster post!! But we went to Michigan last month and I still haven't put up the pictures. So... here they are!!!

We went to Michigan to visit family (Christie and Sammy, Aunt Betty and Uncle Jim, Jen and Greg and their kids, Ava and Grant). I also got to see a good friend that I grew up with (Megan and her husband Josh). We had such a great time at my aunt and uncle's house on Lake Columbia. We went out on the boat everyday, played in the lake (for the 2 days that the weather was nice! hee hee!) and just plain enjoyed Matt not having to work and being with family.

Christie and Sammy were so hospitable. We felt so relaxed and comfortable, and of course with Christie, were very well fed! Thanks to Ruth's Chris (a fancy schmancy restaurant), no steak will ever taste the same!! It gave true meaning to the phrase, "melt in your mouth!" They also took us to the Metro City Casino in Detroit for all you can eat crab. Yummo! I think Matt even came home with his pants fitting a little tighter around the waist!! And that's saying something! We even caught a Detroit Tiger's game which was a first for our little family, but hopefully not a last! The atmosphere was so fun. The stadium was beautiful with an open view so you can see the skyscrapers of Detroit. Drew got a certificate for his first game and a free baseball mit, and...his first ballpark frank! A baseball game wouldn't be the same without a ballpark!

Part of the purpose of our trip was to meet with Christie and Sammy's fertility doctor and psychologist to pursue being a surrogate for them. We will know more in the next few months if and when it will happen.

Being on the boat was so relaxing. The smell of the water and feel of the fresh breeze on your face is like heaven!!

Sammy, Christie, Aunt Betty, and Uncle Jim

Nikki Johnson became Drew's best friend for life! Christie has babysat Nikki ever since she was 6 weeks old and now she is 8 and the cutest girl! She was soooooo sweet to Drew. She was like a little babysitter, playing with him and helping with getting him in and out of his carseat. Drew absolutely idolized her. This picture (above) was an everyday occurence in the car. Drew would rest his hand on Nikki's knee just as a comfort. She was like his blankie or binki. It was the sweetest sight to behold.

At the Jackson Dairy!! Holy cow, their portions are ginormous!!

Drew loves his Aunt Christie and Uncle Sammy

Sammy blowing bubbles with Ava (Jen's little girl).

Aunt Betty had such fun toys for Drew to play with while we were at their lake house.

Sammy fishing

Matt taught Drew how to fish! I think Matt found a new hobby while we were on the lake. He would go out fishing every day and loved it.

Drew hamming it up with Ava and Nikki

The boys

The girls...and Drew too!

He's so cute I can't hardly stand it!

We went go-carting in Irish Hills. Get Christie behind the wheel and she's a crazy woman!!

The speedster

Nikki

Drew playing B-ball with mom and dad

Nikki was a pro at ski ball

Drew got in on the action too!

With my friend Megan. We've lived apart for 12 years but have still kept in touch every so often. She is such a good person. Josh, you are a lucky man!! Hee hee!