And hiking

On that same wonderful weekend, Trey and I took Thomas (and the dogs!) hiking at Parson's Mountain, a small park near Abbeville.  Earlier in the day, Trey toured Thomas around Secession Hill in his bright orange backpack to make sure he knew how to work the equipment.  So, by the time we got to Parson's, the two of them were old pros at backpacking together.  Thomas seemed to love riding in the backpack but always had a pretty tight grip on the handle!  He spent the walk watching the dogs run like crazy and his shadow bouncing on the ground - he loves shadows these days.  We hiked about a mile into the trail and then decided it would probably be best to not wear Thomas out too much and head back.  Once again, it was a great way to spend a beautiful January day!

To see more pictures of the baptism, zoo, and hiking, click here!

Back at the Zoo

Well, we finally had a beautiful January day - time to get outside!  We decided to head up to Greenville and visit the zoo once again.  During this visit, just about every animal they had was out and about, I guess enjoying the brief break from winter weather as well.  Thomas had a ball watching the elephants, giraffes, lions, etc move around in their pens - the bigger and more active the animal, the better!  After the zoo, we visited Katie and Martin and then headed to Mellow Mushroom for dinner.  Finally, we trekked up to the newest beer store in Greenville.  Here, Thomas and I waited patiently as Trey toured around like a kid in a candy shop.  Seriously, wide eyes, big smile, maybe a giggle or two...  It was a great way to spend the day. 

Baby bjorning it!

My personal favorite, the tortoise!

Thomas' Baptism

Thomas was baptized into the Catholic church on January 22 during a beautiful private ceremony.  Father Crowley was wonderful in explaining to us why baptism is important for Thomas and what it means to him and to us.  Katie, who is Thomas' godmother, did an excellent job answering all of the most difficult questions that Father posed to us (we all drink water for communion right?).  Martin (AKA the hot dog king) acted as the stand-in godfather for Paul Cuenin and did a wonderful job as well!  No, seriously, thanks to you both!  Paul was unable to make the ceremony as Brittany is pregnant and due to deliver any day now.  Even Thomas was on his best behavior - quiet (thanks to "the plug"), attentive, and even happy when his head was washed with the water.  He smelled like the oils used for 3 days afterwards, thank goodness they smelled good.  Now, Thomas is truly a blessed kid!  The weekend wouldn't have been complete without a big family meal, so that's just what we did after the baptism - we ate some excellent food and had some good family time.  Thanks to you all for coming and for your help that weekend!

Thomas in his gown.  Can you believe those blue eyes?