Recent travels

We have visited family and several friends lately, but just haven't had time to update our travels. We spent a week at the beach with Cece and Dixie. We took her to the beach for a walk and to play in the sand, took her to the merry-go-round for the 1st time, and visited many of my friends. Ava Grace LOVES the beach - the water, the sand, and the seagulls. The weather was a little rainy and breezy, so we didn't take our bathing suits that day. We did allow her to play in the sand until the rain started. We stood in the rain for a few minutes, but as it fell harder, we decided that we could visit the beach another time. Ava Grace didn't complain about leaving, but I know she would have rather played despite the rain.

Ava Grace had her first trip to the big merry-go-round. Since closing the Pavilion a couple of years ago, some of the rides (some of our favorites) have been moved to Broadway at the Beach. You can buy tickets and ride anything you want. We didn't think Ava Grace would sit in the boats or ride in the cars, so we just chose to do the merry-go-round. Secretly, I wanted to ride it too - just like old times!! I rode it with her the first time. We sat on one of the benches and she looked around at everything while we went round and round. Tim rode it with her the 2nd time. He chose a pretty horse for her to sit on. She grabbed the brass pole with both hands and held on tight. She would smile as she passed by each time. I think she really liked it, so I guess next summer, we will have to go back again.

The trip also involved eating good seafood (at Horry's) and spending time with Cece and Dixie. Ava Grace loves dogs and every morning when she woke up, the first thing she said was "Dixie?" Too cute!! She was able to swim in the pool a couple more times for the year (unless we can find an indoor pool). It is way too chilly here now to pull out her baby pool. Oh well...fall is beautiful in the mountains!! We had a great trip as usual and hope to get back soon to see everyone.

Ava Grace and I also took a trip to Charlotte to see our friends. Unfortunately, it was a day trip, so we didn't get to spend the time we would like with everyone. We were able to see Heather and Makenzie and meet Maddox - the newest addition to the Earnhardt family. The children are so adorable and it was so nice to see Heather and catch up somewhat (in between our children talking and getting into things). We ate lunch with Jen and went back to her house to visit for a little bit. Her house in not baby proof, so Ava Grace was into everything. Sorry for the mess, Jen....and the gas logs!! :) On our way out of town, we stop by to see Kristen at school. Being a 1st grade teacher meant that Ava Grace gad PLENTY of things to play with. She entertained herself for a while!! It was great seeing Kristen and catching up. I am so sorry that Ava Grace and Laney did not get to play with each other this time, but hopefully we will see them again in a few weeks. We had a great, short trip to the Queen City. We miss you and hope to see you soon!!