Vacation Part II -- Destination: Panama City Beach

We drove home from Mountain Laurel Lake on Sunday morning, had lunch at our house, reloaded the car, and set out for Panama City Beach! We met Nana B, Granddaddy, Uncle Jason, Aunt Mandy, and cousins Henry and Ada there for a week of fun in the sun. Well, a little bit of sun anyway.

Below, Granddaddy, Simon, and Cort take a walk on the beach. Simon was not fond of sand -- he didn't like it when it got all over him (which happened immediately!).














He did manage to play a little bit ...














While watching cousins Henry and Ada use their forks and spoons themselves, Simon started to become a bit independent at meal times. He wanted to use the fork and spoon HIMSELF. (Thanks, Uncle Jason!)














During the rainy days and in the evenings, we read a multitude of books, thanks to the Basham and Vance-Moore family libraries.














Simon, Ada, and Henry wait patiently for the elevator to arrive at its destination.














Simon and Cortney hanging out by the pool.

Snack time ... popular snack for the week -- CRACKERS (aka Wheat Thins)!














Simon enjoyed walking in the sand much better with his shoes ON.

Vacation Part I -- Destination: Mountain Laurel Lake

On Thursday we began our season of vacations. After lunch, we headed to Mountain Laurel Lake in Garfield, KY, to spend a long weekend with YaYa, PaPa, Uncle Dooney, and Aunt Nikki.

Simon really enjoyed swinging!














Our theme for the weekend was a carnival theme, with a clown wig, red clown noses, glow-in-the-dark jewelry, and even funnel cakes! Yum ... funnel cakes.














Most nights after Simon went to bed, we played many games of speed scrabble. We love that game.















Aunt Nikki and Uncle Dooney bought Simon his very own fishing pole! Below, Aunt Nikki gives him pointers on casting his line.















After Aunt Nikki caught a fish, Simon was brave enough to touch the little critter. His mom won't even do that!

Busy Times

We have been extremely busy lately -- Cort is finishing up teaching his summer class this week as we prepare to take our family vacations. Here are a couple of recent pics.

Simon is packed up and ready to hit the road!















Last night's pre-dinner coloring session.