Mexico

Otto and I were lucky enough to spend 1/3 of March in beautiful Ixtapa, Mexico!  We traveled with Otto's Momma, Daddy and Grandpa enjoying the sun, sand and ocean for 9 glorious days.

Otto looking up at all those balls in the palm trees

There were so many firsts for Otto there.  He loved the sand, the pool and walking along the ocean.  He also loved watching the birds, the reptiles and those marvelous balls that hung on the palm trees (coconuts).  I'm sure he is wondering why our
trees aren't filled with cool balls like in Mexico!  A lot of pointing up in the air and saying, "ball, ball, ball."

Otto loved the food and the people also.  The Mexican ladies went crazy for him.  I think between the fair skin, curly hair, big cheeks and big blue eyes he was quite a commodity to them.  We continuously heard, "bonito, bonito, bebe'," while they tried to grab his cheeks and hold him throughout our stay.  Ot was having none of this holding him stuff, but he did always give them a cute smile.

One of the best times in Ixtatpa was watching Otto with the other children in Mexico.  Of course there was such a contrast in coloring that they were all fascinated with each other.  Otto and one boy in particular made circles around each other with smiles for 15 minutes before we continued our walk.  It was just the cutest thing.  If we ever needed proof that we are not born prejudice this was it.  The differences were fascinating to them, not scary.

We were lucky enough to have a toddler that slept on the plane for part of the 4 1/2 hours to our destination and on the way back.  That helped tremendously.  The rest of the time on the plane was spent flirting with whomever was in view, walking up and down the aisles and reading books.  Most importantly there were no tears!  Either way…Hallelujah:)








We all came home very grateful for the wonderful time together.  I have to say an adult to child ratio of 4 to 1 was perfect!  I'm hoping that this is the first of many family beach vacations with Otto. Definitely one of the best vacations of my life!

Happy Birthday Otto

Otto has turned one!  This has definitely been one of the best years of my life.  I cannot tell you how fun it has been to be a Grandparent.  It is more then I ever expected, although I had many grandparents telling me it was going to be awesome!

The time I have gotten to spend with Otto has been a treasure for me.  There is a calmness I feel with him that is so joyful and relaxing.  I have always loved babies and children, but this surpasses that passion.  Our days together at Gramma Daycare have given me purpose and an opportunity to bond with Otto in a way that I am so grateful for.

Otto, of course had a big bash for his first birthday.  He had Great Grandmas and Grandpas, Great Aunts and Uncles, Grandpas and Grandmas, Aunties and cousins all in full attendance for this special day.  He was a good birthday boy sharing his toys, smiling for the camera and being his charming self.

One of the best photo ops of the day was definitely the smash cake experience.  First day of pure sugar and Otto handled it well.  He didn't even try and finish the cake (so unlike a Johnson, even a 1/2 Johnson)!

Otto, someday maybe you will get to read this blog.  I hope you feel the love I have for you on that day and always.  I simply adore you.  I thank God for the gift of you!

Love Gram

Cousin Baby D

Otto and Gram are excited to share the first photo of the new baby coming to our family this summer!
Otto's first cousin and Grams new bundle to love is expected to arrive July 21st.

Momma Livvie said the 20 week appointment went great and all is well with Momma and Baby.  Baby D weighs 14 ounces and heart rate is 152…right in the middle.

Since Momma Livvie is not going to find out the sex, we are taking guesses.  Boy/Girl? What do you think?

Either way, we are all beyond excited for this new adventure in our lives.  Sooo blessed!