"Beach memories...."

We have really had a wonderful summer. We have been able to have a change of scenery a few times, but for the most part we have stayed close to home just enjoyed "normal life".  Our summers always include the Alabama Bar Convention with my parents, so we loaded up and headed to the beach for several days towards the middle of the summer. This is one of the highlights of our summer each year. The convention is very family friendly, so the kids are never lacking for fun things to do. My Dad works very hard while we are there while the rest of us play, but this year he was able to spend more time with us which was wonderful. The hardest part about the week was having 2 children with 2 very different levels of interest - Ellison hated the sun, sand, and ocean this time, and Elijah Brooks couldn't get enough of the waves. So, Jay and I had to "divide and conquer" which meant we didn't spend much time together during the days. Ellison wanted to "live" in the hot tub all week!!  She thought it was the greatest thing about the beach - in the middle of July - the hot tub. I convinced her to at least play in the inside pool if she didn't want to be outside. I wanted to be outside so bad, but hey, I took one for the team. I would have rather been inside with a happy toddler than outside with a miserable one. Elijah loved the water and stayed out most of the day with Jay, and he would bounce back and forth between pool and ocean. Nighttime was wonderful - lots of kids' activities, great food, live music, perfect weather, fireworks on the beach, and happy children!

Mom and Dad, thank you again for letting us tag along with y'all!  We tuck this one away in our memory file as another fabulous, family trip.

Had to post to capture Ellison's "dramatic pose"! 

Getting all 4 of us in a picture is rare

Getting all 6 of us in one is even more rare - so thankful we have this! 

Yes, it really was THAT big! 

Could this be any sweeter? I think not.  I haven't seen this very much at all this summer, so this picture is especially dear. They DO love each other! 

In motion - as expected  :) 

She lost 3 balloons in the sky in a matter of minutes!  I calmed her down by telling her she was sending them to Aunt Elliot because they were her favorite color. 

Making "minion" balloons 

...., and I think a "minion" visor

Stopping to pose with my girl! 

They all look so happy don't they?  Dad is probably hanging onto Ellison for dear life. I see her feet flailing ! 

Another family picture!  I can't believe it.  Love that a gust of wind is blowing my dress - adds to the drama in the family! 

Thanks again Mom and Dad for a wonderful week!