Vacation time

The family flew to Minnesota last week for Nate's fourth airplane trip. Luckily, his Baby Einstein DVD entertained him most of the time so he wasn't too squirmy. Still, it was the longest two hours of my life, including being in labor. We spent the first four days up at a cabin in northern Minnesota, near Brainerd. The resort was very nice with a sandy beach, kayaks, paddleboats and a long dock. It stayed shallow - less than three feet deep - for forever, which was great for Nate and his cousin Brody.

Nate discovers the joy of sand.

He examines it with a scientific eye.

And, he eats it.

Gearing up for his first boat ride.

Grandpa Vogel doesn't mean to give Nate the finger - that's just how he tickles.

If you put Nate in a swing, be prepared to push him for a very long time. He doesn't ever want to leave!

Daddy pushes Nate around in his little boat. So much fun!

Our future soccer star - seriously, the kid can already dribble.

From when I was 3 years old until I was 21, my extended family went to a resort in that area until it was sold and eventually closed down. We actually visited the old site and it was surreal -- the cabins, docks and main lodge had all been removed as though they'd never been there.

Hiking through the former resort, right where our cabin used to be.

The beach, almost entirely worn away.