Michigan: Part 2

Saturday, July 3, we bid farewell to Dean, Angie, and Austin and headed off to Holland, MI. We rented a cottage on the lake with Matt's family (Mom DB, Eric, Candice -Eric's significant other, Andrea, and Jordan- Andrea's significant other). It was a cute little cottage with an incredible view.... check it out-

The only bummers were 1) no air conditioning (it got pretty stuffy some nights when there wasn't a breeze. And it was nestled right in the dune which pretty much absorbed the heat during the day so it didn't cool off much at night.) and 2) even though we were right on the beach, and a private beach at that, it was still a good hike to get down there.

check out our steps down to the beach....

It didn't take us long to get settled in and start relaxing on the deck. Luke loved exploring yet another new place to stay and playing with all the adoring family members who were happy to give him lots of attention.

That night we planned to meet some extended family (aunts, uncles, cousins) to watch the fireworks. Matt's uncle Ken and aunt Jane had rented a cottage on the channel so we decided a walk along the beach to their place sounded nice. It started as a good idea and was nice to get some exercise but ended up being a longer walk than we anticipated (it didn't help that we walked way around where the other cottage was and ended up being re-directed up and then down another large dune due to where they were setting off the fireworks). At least there were lots of arms willing to help carry Luke who did not want to walk along the beach but preferred to stop and see the sand and check out the water.

The fam trekking along the beach

We were able to enjoy a gorgeous view and great conversation along the way

It was nice to finally meet up with the Genzinks and get to our spot for watching the fireworks. Luke was fascinated with the sand.

Aunt Jane checking out the sand with Luke

It was a slight challenge to keep him from throwing sand all over everyone.

Our attempt at a family picture, waiting for the fireworks to start.

Watching the fireworks.

(please ignore the fact that I look like a total gomer in this picture)

Despite the fact that Luke didn't really nap that day and the fireworks didn't start until closer to 10:30, he did amazingly well. He sat on my lap and clapped for the fireworks without being prompted to do so. Thankfully, Uncle Ken offered to drive us back to our cottage afterward. Luke fell asleep on my shoulder and although I'm sure we'd manage the long walk on the beach in the dark back to our cottage, it was nice that we didn't have to. Thanks again Uncle Ken!

Throughout the next few days we lounged around the cottage, relaxed at the beach, played in the pool, visited with family, ate wonderful meals, played games, and just enjoyed being together.

Jordan entertaining Luke with some bubbles

Luke quickly figured out how to open the door from the sun porch out to the deck. This absolutely thrilled Luke and terrified me - remember the stairs down the beach and how steep they were? He did take a tumble down the steps just off the deck at least once, and I was right there! Needless to say I did not like the fact that Luke could let himself outside (and would) anytime my back was turned. Again, I was very thankful for family's help keeping an eye on him.

Peering through the screen door into the sun porch

Luke loved being in the pool. He is not afraid of the water at all - he kept trying to put his face in and drink the water. He'd jump in and walk right off the steps into the deeper water. I guess I should be thankful that he's not afraid of the water but his lack of fear makes me a little fearful.

Swimming with Daddy

Mom DB made dinner for the whole family (that's 22 people in all) on Monday night. She was given some freshly caught salmon from her brother-in-law (another Uncle Ken). She commissioned Matt to grill it up along with some brats and burgers for those who oppose seafood. It was delicious!

The grill masters

Eric and Uncle Tom overseeing things

Aunt Kristi and Uncle Tom's girls (Bella, Ava, and Mia) were adorable. They took to Luke right away and were so great playing with him, helping him sneak chips, holding his hand, etc. It was priceless. I'm thinking they might need a little brother... :)

Ava and Luke playing with the train we brought from Grannie and Pops' house

Bella, Ava and Luke

Playing at the beach

The water was so warm and pretty calm. Luke loved splashing in the waves - so long as someone was holding him or at least holding his hand.

He was knocked over by a few waves and was not a big fan of that.

Beach Babe

More on our Michigan vacation to come...