The last few days have been spent mostly visiting with old friends.  We arrived at the Holst’s house in Pittsburgh on Tuesday and were treated to a homemade curry compliments of Seth.  It was fantastic.  Also very nice to spend time with Seth, Jen, Eli and Jonah.  I couldn’t believe how big Eli is, 5 and incredibly smart and adorable.  I remember when he was born.  Time flies.  Seth and Justin went to Penn State together and were Acacia brothers.

Seth and Jen are balancing demanding careers as Dr.’s and I’m impressed with how well they are balancing it all with family life.  It’s not easy.

Stella and Jonah Sharing Blankies

Jonah and Stella had a great time playing as they are only a few months apart in age.  Sharing their blankies and playing together.

We were lucky to also get to have the famous Permanti Brothers sandwiches with TJ Ladner on Wednesday for lunch.  Great to catch up and always a good laugh when he’s around.  TJ was also a fraternity brother of Justin’s.

Seth, Eli, Justin and Stella

Wednesday night we were off to visit the Dee’s.  Stacy and Chris just moved back to Pittsburgh and are getting settled in with Grayson and Beckham.  Again, really nice to catch up with old friends we haven’t seen in quite awhile.  Chris and Justin became friends thru mutual Penn State friends years ago.

Chris and Stacy also have very demanding and high profile jobs and seem to be doing very well with doing it all and raising two very kind and smart boys.

Sharing an Apple Picnic with the Dee Boys

Thursday we did a networking lunch with some local Pittsburgh real estate investors.  Actually took Stella along and she’s now called our little “closer.”  Who can resist a cute kid?  That’s what you call a family business.  Lunch was at Fat Heads…Yum!

Yes, we are on an eating tour of the East coast…stay tuned for some other classic good eats!

Today we hit Penn State and took Stella straight to the Lion Shrine for a photo opp and big Nitanny Lion “roar” (she’s mastered the skill quite well).  And then we hit the creamery to pick up some ice cream for the weekend- my personal favorite stop at PSU!

Nittany Lion - Go PSU!

Arrived at Andrew Goldberg’s house and he treated us to a fabulous home cooked meal and was a very gracious host.

Thanks to all our hosts over the last few days.  Very much appreciated.

No real baby tips to share.  It’s been a sleepless night the past 2 nights.  Stella was in the room with us both nights and woke up and wouldn’t really go back to sleep. Tonight we have her in a huge walk-in closet in our room so we hope to get some sleep.  I know it sounds terrible but it’s basically her own room.  We all need some sleep.  Stella included.