weekend in jersey

The cousins were flocking this weekend to the Wiest Compound in New Jersey, and we were invited to join the fun. The reason for the gathering was to attend the blessing of my cousin, Zac's, new baby girl, Stella, but it was mutually decided that a long afternoon at the beach on the neighborhood lake must be in order as well.

It was great to see so much family, particularly for the little cousins who got in a bit of beautiful bonding time.

 Matthew and Vera are only a few weeks apart. I think in part because of her example, Matthew took a few independent steps during our visit.

Shortly after we arrived on Saturday, we packed a picnic lunch and headed to the beach, where we spent the entire afternoon.

Building sandcastles.

Picnic lunch on a perfectly sized picnic table.

 My little fish ready for fun.

 Beach boys

Garrett and James

 Sailing.

Matthew loved being in the water. We had to keep an extra close eye on him because he had no fear of crawling right out into the deep.

Setting sail in the canoes!

  

Back at the house in the evening, Matthew spent a lot of time glued to the windows, watching with little brother envy as the rest of the big boys were playing in the backyard.

And just what were they doing out there? Why, frog hunting, of course! Garrett found one, named it Jumpy, and was soon the hero of all the other little boys. I'm actually pretty surprised, considering his well-known aversion to various textures, at how much he loved holding it.

When it was time to head back to Brooklyn for the night, he put Jumpy in a bucket on the back patio, fully expecting to get play with him again when we were back the next day. But Jumpy had other plans and was gone by the time Garrett was able to check on him. But never fear! He quickly found another frog and named him Hopper. It was his greatest wish to be able to take him home and keep him as a pet, but we quelled that desire pretty quick, much to his immense devastation.

On Sunday we drove straight to the chapel for church where Baby Stella was given a beautiful blessing. Afterwards, we congregated again at the house for a delicious dinner before several of the families, ours included, had to head back home.

I love having so much extended family nearby. These weekends with them, away from our regularly scheduled reality, are so needed and so enjoyed. 'Til next time!