Today the weather was perfect – it reached around mid-80s with a real nice breeze… way better than the obnoxious, 90-something degrees weather we'd been having. Last weekend we spent a greater part of the time inside preparing the house for the baby and, not that we're finished yet, we wanted to do something fun. After Chase woke up from his nap we quickly got ready and headed out. Derek didn't tell me where we were going – we just packed the stroller, a few snacks for Chase, and headed off.
That's not my beer ~ haha
I was sooooo, so happy to realize, as we entered the borough of Brooklyn and got on the Belt Parkway, that we were heading to Coney Island! We hadn't been to Coney Island since Chase was a baby! Since the weather broke (back in mid-Spring) I've been asking about Coney Island…. but it seemed each weekend we got busy and caught up in some other plans. As my pregnancy has come to an end I had started to accept that maybe Coney Island just wasn't in the stars for us this particular summer.
Coney Island was as fun and awesome as I remembered it – with lively music, people young and old from all walks of life, entertainment on the boardwalk, and lots of yummy food! Chase tried funnel cake, cotton candy, mango, and a virgin pina colado for the first time! We started out at our favorite little boardwalk spot, Ruby's Bar & Grill, and had a drink and just relaxed and enjoyed being outdoors.
I think me and Chase's favorite part of the day was the dance party on the boardwalk. There's always a live DJ outside playing House Music, and naturally a huge crowd gathers and everyone dances and parties with wild abandon. Of course, Chase and I got right up in the middle of the circle (his element) and danced our little hearts out. Derek did take video of it, but it's a bit long and not sure I'll be able to upload it to YouTube (maybe I'll try Vimeo). Well just know that we were getting down!
I did get choked up every time I thought about how this was our last major outing as a family of three. In just a few days everything will change for Chase… all of us really. The rational side of me knows the changes will be all for the better – especially once the initial transition has passed. But the more emotional side of me can't help but feel nostalgic and sad. The significance of the day didn't even hit me until Derek mentioned as we left the house that this was our last weekend before the baby came. I had somehow totally blocked this from my consciousness.
We really wanted to make the day special for Chase, and I think we did. He felt so happy and special as he walked/ran on the boardwalk between mommy and daddy. I hope this feeling always lasts for him – and I hope and pray that he accepts and grows to love his new baby brother with open arms, while also aware that he'll always be mommy and daddy's sweet, special, first-born son.
You look great.
Thanks for your wonderful words we I needed them.
xx, Ms. BPlan.
You look lovely in the photos! So glad you got to have a wonderful last “family of 3″ outing =)
Your son makes the cutest faces, lol.
Its so great you guys were able to spend time together before the newest addition. I hope Chase remembers these times. Or at least has a good time while its here.
i totally remember feeling like this before my twins were born. so i created “big sister day” for my at-the-time toddler so she didnt feel left out, resentful or anxious about the 2 new bundles. it worked like a charm!!!! relax mommy, all will be well
aww I got a little teary eyed reading this post. Your family will be accepting a wonderful blessing once baby #2 arrives.
Awww..looks like the three of you had a blast!
I felt a little emotional reading this (am I PMS’ing?). Jordan has been my only child for so long, that I never considered what it would be like – from a childs perspective – for that type of “only child” attention to change with the addition of a new baby. You’ve talked about it often, but like you – the reality of it just hit me. It’s crazy to think about how much things will change for you all in just a matter of days.
I’m excited about it though – I can’t wait!
Aww, what lovely photos of the 3 of you! I know that Chase will do way better than you think although I don’t blame you for your mixed feelings on how it all plays out. It’s great that you all had such a nice time during your “last hurrah”. Just think that you will soon have be saying “Etheridge family, party of FOUR”. How exciting and I send you happy wishes for the big day! Can’t wait to see your new addition and enjoy your first cup of coffee
aww, i’m so glad the three of you got to share this weekend together! and don’t worry — the memories will only get better from here on out! having a sibling is the BEST! think about it — would your childhood memories had been as fun w/out nabu? and later, your gorgeous younger siblings?
heehee.
the countdown begins…so excited!
That was beautiful….Congrats!!
I think i felt like this the last month leading up to little lady’s arrival. I almost felt guilty and i was super sad. Now when i see them play together its the great feeling words cant describe what it feels to have these two little babies you created interact and love eachother. I can’t imagine my life any other way. Hope you have a safe delivery and can’t wait to hear about the newest addition! have a great weekend!
I am a New Yorker and have never been to Coney Island. I need to get out there before the summer is over! Chase will loves his new baby brother! You and your husband have plenty of love and attention to give both babies! Congrats again!
Aww..i bet that was nice! I cant wait to see the video.
BTW:..what did you decide on to name the baby?
OMG THIS WAS MY PLAN FOR TODAY!! sadly it didn’t happen but I’m glad you all enjoyed your weekend before baby comes, now the REAL fun begins. Good luck girlie!