to the beach.

So far this summer, we've been to 2 different beaches.
Let's talk about our first trip -

In mid-June we went with Tim's family to TopSail Island in North Carolina. It was TONS of fun! Both of his brothers and his sister were there as well as his parents, and lots of grandkids.

In attendance:

Nana & Pop-Pop

Tim's older brother Jon & his kids - Julian 8, Willow 7, Zoe 5, Ella 4,

Tim & I with Cale 3, and Megersa 9 months at the time,

Tim's sister Renee' and her 2 boys - Jeremiah 2, and Ezekiel 1,

Tim's younger brother David, and his wife Amber.

It was a packed place! But tons of fun.

Maybe because we pumped up the idea of the beach for so long (weeks and months), Cale - was a natural. He enjoyed the water (though didn't "venture out" too far). He loved playing in the sand...and even though I don't think he'd admit it, I think he secretly enjoyed finding every nook and cranny of his swimsuit and body that sand can hide in, so his showers and baths were just that much longer. :) He loved the hot tub and even liked getting the suntan lotion on. Even nap and bedtime weren't their usual struggle (perhaps because he was exhausted!).

Megersa on the other hand...........enjoyed being indoors. He wasn't keen on the sand. Didn't really wanna move from his spot directly in the center of our beach blanket...but wasn't happy about sitting there, not being held. He didn't like the water (probably too cold)....and didn't care for the taste of either the ocean, or the beach - go figure!

Fortunately, Tim's sister Renee' has a 1-year-old that spent alot of time indoors napping, so Megersa joined in on that party. He stayed inside most days with whomever was there, and was perfectly content about it.

Towards the end of the week, his bravery perked, and he made an effort with the sand...not without reservation though.

So, you know about the beach. When you're there it's bliss. But the vacation goes too quickly, and sooner rather than later, you're back at home, wishing you were not.

Each day was filled with fun, sun, family and love. It was a beautiful vacation, and here are some pictures to prove it:

(note - these pictures are in no particular order...there were just SO many, I had to narrow it down.) :)

First up, "Pop-Pop" and "Nana"

Hubby and Me, sharing a passionate kiss. Oh yeah, still got the fire! ;)Renee' and her boys, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel (it was desperately hard to get the boys to both look, and smile. This was the best shot.) Newlyweds: David & Amber, no children yet, aka: no responsibilities this trip.

Next up: I dug a hole for Cale. He LOVED it!

Megersa...not so much. See me trying to clap to get him to smile. Nada.

Cousins ready for some fun in the sun: (left to right) Willow, Zoe, Cale, Julian, Ella

He was just SO happy this week. It was adorable. What's he doing? Declaring victory, yelling? Who knows. :)

A Nester family photo. I just wish Megersa was looking up.

What a sweet baby face, huh? Adorable!!

Megersa preferred being held...and he's show his affection to anyone who was willing to give up their ocean time to do it! (He knows how to play the game already...;)

Jon and his kids.

Timbo and me.

A smooch for Megersa. He still doesn't quite understand the idea of kissing on the lips...but he'll get there.

Cale & Daddy, chillin' inside while watching the world cup.

The Goober, sunbathing.

Looks like sunburn, but Cale's actually red here from running around. He didn't burn at all!! However, he's a sweaty little pig when he plays hard!

Nester feet: MJ, Daddy, Cale, Mommy

A postcard shot, isn't it? He had his bucket and shovel...obviously looking for sand crabs. :)ALMOST a perfect shot...if we were all looking in the same direction. But, I kinda like it. :)