Tree-Climbing and Car Travel

Sunday and Monday we spent with family in Mobile and sharing with two different churches.  Monday morning we relaxed at my Gramma's house.  James enjoyed the Satsuma tree, eating about three, I think.

Both Ella and James enjoyed tree-climbing when we were here in April, and they were eager to resume the pastime.

The kids have been such wonderful travelers, going with the flow, napping in the car, with different sleeping arrangements each night.  I'm glad they've been able to make all of these memories with great-grandparents.

They sure have loved all their great-grandmothers.  James was feeling tired, I think, because he slept about 2 1/2 hours on the drive to Florida.  We always forget how long it takes to drive across the panhandle. But we made it to Lake Santa Fe safe and sound and were greeted by Grammy and Daddy Jim and fruit snacks in the kids' room.

Good night, Monday.

Saturday on the Gulf

I've been enjoying documenting our farewell road trip and moments with family.  I also love documenting scenery in Alabama.

Our rooms overlooked a bit of a swamp, home to alligators and turtles.  We saw several turtles and thankfully no alligators.

We swam in the pool during the morning then went to the beach for a bit after lunch.  I know I was feeling good and tired and ready to rest by the time we got back to the room and cleaned up.

I really loved this little-boy silhouette.

Somehow the boys still had plenty of energy to run up and down the hall.  We had pizza for supper and then hurried to the beach for a few pictures before the sun went down.  We are excited about the arrival of a new nephew in December!

Beach light at sunset is a photographer's best friend.  Also, Caleb's smile when I called his name = awesome.

After pictures KJ got the kites flying for the kids before we headed in for the night.  It was a great weekend to enjoy Alabama's beaches.

Friday: The Alabama Gulf Coast

Friday afternoon we made it to the Gulf Coast to spend a couple of days with my parents and my brother's family.  The weather was perfect and beautiful, and we decided October was the perfect time for the beach.

Cutest Little Boy

The water felt a tad cool upon first entering it, but it didn't take long to feel perfect.  I think James went out farther with B.P. than he ever went previously.

It was so fun getting to spend time with my nephew, one of the cutest 2-year-olds alive.

We wanted to get a picture of the three cousins together, but it was more difficult than we first imagined.  As soon as we got them seated, one would get up and walk away.

We finally succeeded, though you can't see all of their faces.  Ah, well.

Caleb commandeered a sandcastle village.

He collected all of the shovels he could find and wasn't happy when it was time to leave.

Ella is like a fish in the water.  She could ride the waves for hours.

Supper was a perfect and fun outdoor affair.