Destin 2010

We just returned from our annual Destin trip with Papaw and Grandma, and we had a fabulous time.  We were concerned that it would be impacted by the recent oil spill in the Gulf, but thankfully, it didn't reach Florida during our stay.  I still feel a little guilty worrying about our vacation when it's likely there will be serious environmental and economic damage for years to come for the gulf, but I guess that's human nature to concentrate on how events affect you personally....still feel a little bad.

We went straight to the beach when we arrived and V walked into the ocean like she was walking down the street. That child has "no fear" - just like her brother. Not surprisingly, they both loved the beach (aka, the best sand and water table ever), and we spent many morning and evenings digging and building.  J and Papaw made a game out of trying to direct to waves and yelling "stop waves, stop!" that was hilarious to watch.

We spent one morning at the Destin Gulfarium.  J was enthralled with the dolphin shows and petting the horshoe crabs, while V was thrilled to splash her hands in the different water features.  We spent a lot of time at the pool too, and V drank more than her fair share of pool water.

Grandma even organized a shell hunt on our last night.  Of course, Destin beach doesn't really have any shells, but some Grandma ingenuity and a trip to Wal-Mart solved that. The shell hunt was followed by J's favorite part of the beach - washing off the sand at the outdoor shower.  We traveled 800 miles and he was amazed by a spigot.

The best part of the trip, though, was getting to spend so much time with the kids and Grandma and Papaw. There were wagon rides, place mats as hats, helping Grandma cook, discovering raisins, finger painting, exploring the peer, and so many more special memories made.   It was a wonderful trip and we can't wait until next year.

Here are a lot of pictures, but it was a really good time and I just can't decide.  :)