Tristan's First Easter

We were a little concerned going in to Tristan's first Easter if we would be able to make it through our day. He has recently developed what I would call a phobia from being around any number of people. It has happened a few times, especially recently, where he will be totally happy and then all of a sudden...a switch flips. Then he starts screaming hysterically, and is impossible to calm down without removing him entirely from the situation. It has happened at a few parties, and even just visiting with our immediate family, if we get a little bit rowdy. We think that he is just in stimulation overload and doesn't know how to handle it. With that in mind, you can understand why we were being ultra-cautious about our Easter festivities.

This year, we were with the Cole family, one of our smallest holiday gatherings (which was a VERY good thing considering our situation). Everyone was briefed on how we thought would be the best way to handle our situation: keeping voices down, not bombarding the baby as soon as we come in the door, etc. We were really hoping that until Tristan was feeling really comfortable, as hard as it may be, that everyone act as if he weren't there. And boy was that difficult, with him looking as cute as he did. But our family pulled together, and were on their best behavior. Tristan did amazing. He settled in great, and after awhile was even able to be passed around. We were so glad since we really didn't want to have to leave soon after we got to great-Granny's house. The weather was nice, so Brendan was even able to have a good time outside playing baseball.

We could not have asked for a better day. No hysterics from our youngest, and a great time had by all. Happy Easter!

Easter Egg Hunt with the Whitlock Girls: Brendan, Josie, Leanna, & Kelly

Brendan loves to hunt Easter eggs!

Tristan is ready to fill his basket.

Dying our eggs.

The Easter bunny came!

Tristan has no idea what's going on...the Easter bunny was very generous!

Tristan and Daddy...all dressed up.

Mommy and Brendan.

Easter baseball.

Great-Granny gets to spend some time with baby Tristan.