DESTIN 2015

We just got back from our annual summer beach trip. although this year we had to go in late June as opposed to early May. we left on Wednesday morning. The trip there went well except for a lot of traffic in Mobile and then as soon as we got to the Ft. Walton area. The kids were really good though. Lindsay got antsy a few times. Neither slept at all! We were later getting to the condo as well. It was about 4 before we checked in. We unpacked and settled in briefly then brought the kids to the beach and pool. We didn't stay at the beach too long since we didn't have chairs. It was also really crowded. We went on the pool which was also really crowded. I was honestly at this point wondering how much fun we would have on this trip with all these people. The kids didn't seem to notice though and loved showing off their swimming skills. By 5:30 we knew we needed to go get them changed for dinner. By the time we were cleaned up and changed dinner was ready. It was nice to eat earlier this year. We enjoyed roast beef po-boys and visiting. That night the kids and I played Trouble out on the patio with my parents. That was really a neat memory! Soon we got the kids ready for bed after a long day. I think we were all pretty tired by that point. 
Thursday we were up bright and early. The kids for whatever reason are always up by about 6. We went over to eat breakfast and visit with the family. We always look forward to and enjoy these breakfasts. As soon as we finished it was time to get dressed and ready for the beach. This year we packed a lot and were prepared to stay out on the beach for awhile. I think both kids lasted about an hour on Thursday. They both loved the water and playing in the sand. Its so much easier now that they both really enjoy playing out there. After an hour we decided they needed a break from the heat so we took them to the pool. It was fun just swimming as a family. We played in the pool until it started raining/lightening. I was worried how the rest of the day would go but luckily it did clear off after lunch and the boys were able to go back down. Lindsay loved the pool too! We went upstairs for our usual lunch. We ate and just hung out for awhile. After lunch Lindsay needed a nap and mom did too ;). I always enjoy my down time at the beach. Colby played on the ipad for about an hour then he and Austin went back down to the beach and pool. I enjoyed the quiet time while Lindsay slept and the boys were downstairs. I love the beach but I also love that relaxation time. We got cleaned up early and went out to dinner early to beat the crowds. We went to our usual Back Porch. After dinner we did our usual go to the outdoor mall as well. The kids always love doing this. They both got small stuffed animals from BAB and then they played on the playground, got icecream and rode the train. All of our usuals. Its always a fun memory. Once we finished up it was back to the condo for baths and bed. 
Friday we awoke to more rain. Again we were a little worried how the day would go and how we would keep the kids busy. Luckily with a slightly later start and by the time we finished breakfast it had already cleared off. We went down to the beach by 10 and enjoyed a nice overcast day. We actually stayed at the beach for 2 hours! It was lovely! I think this was my favorite part of the trip! The kids loved the water again and also were happy to play and dig in the sand. Afterwards we went to the pool. Again they also loved this! Colby is such a fish now and Lindsay is really doing well on her swimming skills too. We went back up for lunch. We had a nice lunch outside on the patio. Again we did our normal rest time. Lindsay and I took a nap the boys rested a bit then hit the beach again. That day we did something different...we decided to stay in that night. Due to the little bit of rain and the fact that it was a Friday night and we were afraid the restaurants would be packed we decided to pick up dinner and give the kids more beach/pool time. The boys were able to stay at the beach longer then normal and I honestly enjoyed more downtime. My stomach wasn't feeling great so it was nice to rest. We picked up Chickfila and ate in my parent's condo. After eating we took the kids back down to the pool. It was a great time too b/c we almost had it to ourselves! 
Saturday we had a LONG drive back. Traffic was horrible but the kids handled it well! It was a great trip and I am so thankful for the time out enjoying God's creation and also time with family. Its so fun seeing the kids love the beach! I cannot believe how quickly they are growing up though!!