Oops- forgot these

Pictures taken in Harbor Town.

Happy Beach Birthday, Grandpa Henry

Grandpa Henry had his birthday while we were at the beach, and on his bucket list for his birthday was to go ocean kayaking. And so we did. Your eyes do not deceive you, there *is* a pic of me going kayaking as well. And yeah, I got seasick. But it was fun, anyway. And super splashy! Although, for some reason, Aaron did not trust me with my own paddle.

The kids don't seem to realize that it's not their birthday instead. Maybe it was the Elmo tablecloth and Pooh Bear plates that tricked them. - starla

Ocean Daze Mega Pic Post

We have returned from a FABULOUS week at Hilton Head, where the kiddos frolicked appropriately and muchly in sand and surf. Calliope says she wants to live in the beach house 100 days, so I think we can call the whole enterprise a success. Also, Uncle Bryan was finally able to meet Quinn, and Quinn decided that he had a new hero. Bryan's iPad might have had something to do with that. The house was perfect, the beach was beyond perfect (and we had it practically all to ourselves every day), and the weather was certainly perfect.

I miss the hammock already. *sigh*. - starla

Ocean accomplished.

After a morning swim in the pool, Dad lured Calliope to the ocean with purple bubbles. The wind was strong enough to blow the bubbles unaided and before you know it we were right by the water line. Calliope jumped down into the surf and started splashing in the waves. She got as deep as thigh level and the waves splashed her chest and a little on her chin. She got very wet but didn't complain a bit. She squealed and ran and kicked and splashed for 30 minutes before Dad needed some lunch. She also enjoyed kicking off one shoe and watching the waves take it to shore. She'd chase after it and tell me not to touch it.

Quinn hasn't been to the beach yet today but will likely go after nap time.

Day at the beach

First day that is. Calliope was excited for the entire 7 hour trip. Quinn was just glad to be where everyone else was. Ruby was glad she wasn't left at home. The house we are staying at is quite large and very comfortable. The ocean is viewable from many rooms and the beach is just out the back door. Quinn loved the sand and the surf. Calliope enjoyed it, too, but some of the bugs and jellyfish irritated her a bit. Fortunately, Starla (aka the supermom) planned for this nd mde sure we had a pool, too. Both kids and both Grandmas swam until dinner time. We had dogs on the grill and put everybody to bed. Except Hanka and Aaron. We went for a night walk on the beach. I smoked a cigar and we hoped to spot some turtles lying their eggs. Alas, no turtles.

Missouri Wedding

We just returned yesterday from Missouri, where we attended Aaron's cousin's wedding. Calliope particularly enjoyed watching monster truck videos on You Tube with Cousin Cole, and Quinn particularly enjoyed hanging out with Cousin Bailey. I'm not sure if Cousin Bailey and Cousin Cole shared said enjoyment to the same degree, but everyone looks like they are having a pretty good time. - starla

New Cousin, Courtesy of Uncle Keith and Aunt Angie

Introducing Henry Joseph, who is a bundle of chubby cuteness. - starla