Off To Virginia!

We made our way to Virginia to visit my sister and her clan. This was the last time we were going to see my brother-n-law before he shipped out to Afghanistan for duty as a medic in a MASH unit.

Here are the kids as we're getting close.

W is always awake for car rides, except the last 5-10 minutes. Always.


We visited the way cool aquarium.

 The Kimodo Dragon was huge and not really green. It's just a green spot light overhead. You  know...because they like random spots of color in their habitat.

 The girls went inside the dome for a closer look.

 E really acting it out...swallowed by the big shark.

Touching starfish, crabs, and whatever else they have in there.

There was a TON of dress up. Huddle up with the QB and Fairy.

Gotta hit the beach! The weather was perfect and waves were monstrous that day. We also witnessed a photo shoot of a wedding party in full navy dress uniforms!

We got a good laugh over O eating. He held that position while eating his entire sandwich.

Fun in the pool.

Saying goodbye. Always hard to do with these girls.

 

 She's trying to be brave. Look at that single tear on her cheek...so sad!

On the way home...determined to stay awake!!

Goodbye Family!

Classic pose...S, you gotta point your toe more! ; )

Finally, the Slide!

It's been months...and months...and E kept reminding us that we needed to get a slide for our swingset. Finally, her yellow slide has come!

Pa came over to help Daddy build the addition onto the swingset. There is now a platform, railing, and stairs for the slide.

Hooray!

On a goofy side note-

Later that day, Daddy cleaned his umpiring gear and E helped make a list of his equipment. She couldn't resist digging through the bucket and trying things on.

The Balloon Lady

The library had an end of the summer reading celebration. If you completed your goal of reading x number of books, you get free admission. The celebration this summer was The Balloon Lady.

The theme was Under The Sea, so she made tons of fun balloon characters.

This was W's reaction for a good portion of the show.

Or this.

E loved the show, of course. She was dancing away in her chair as she ooed and ahhed with each balloon getting blown up.

O was reading his Mike Mulligan book for half the show. He was somewhat interested, especially during crazy music or the crowd going wild.

After the show, E asked to see the Balloon Lady. She wanted to thank her for the show. How sweet! We got a picture with The Balloon Lady and her colorful rainbow. As we walked away, E whispered, "Mommy, why does she smell?"  Too funny.

Surprise Beach Trip

Those in A's line of business had their semi-annual conference at a family favorite beach this year. It also happens to be near extended family. A wanted me and the kids to go with him, but I couldn't. There was no way I was going to be either trapped in a hotel room with my kids all day or try to venture out to a pool or beach by myself with all of them running in different directions. Plus, we don't have two pack-n-plays. AND, I was in charge of a ward activity that Friday evening. So...he left... all alone to a three day conference.

At about 5pm, he called. "Pack your stuff and get down here" was the first thing he said. WHAT? "It's family friendly. They have everything you need. They have a toddler pool and a playground. I already have two cribs in here and I'm leaving to get groceries now. I want you and the kids on the road in an hour...."

I managed to throw a bunch of stuff in suitcases and hit the road. After a quick dinner and 1 potty stop, we arrived at the hotel a little after 11pm. The kids were wide awake and super excited.

The kids ate breakfast while watching PBS the next morning.

She has never been on a bouncy bridge before and this is how she decided to cross it...on her knees, scooting backwards VERY slowly.

It was a first for the boys as well. I'm surprised O was cautious. Just copying big sis I guess.

He's small, but very determined and very capable.

Venturing to the beach.

Last year, O wouldn't get near the water. He sat in the sand and ate it. This year, He jumped right in the water!

W liked the pool better. Look at that cutie!

The kids danced to the Jamaican inspired steel and kettledrum band.

"I'm gonna lounge in the sun for a little while."

Swimming lessons paid off!

Playing nicely, filling a bucket with water.

Brother comes along and snatched the bucket. Screaming begins.

Brother dumps water and runs away. Crying continues.
Don't you love their Little Mermaid swim diapers? Ha!

O jumping in the water and E dancing.

I left Friday afternoon with the boys because I was in charge of a church activity. A stayed through Saturday with E so they could visit with my family. They were able to visit grandparents, great grandparents, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Swimming with a couple cousins.

Look at E.G. She's got form!

I wish I could have been there. E had a great time with everyone!
The beach was really fun, and yes, very family friendly.
We're looking forward to our next family beach trip soon.