On Thursday we left a little before 7am. The boys were fantastic on Wednesday and Thursday was no different. I am so impressed with our patient travelers! Koen is very impressive as he treats it like we are doing him a favor by strapping him down to watch DVD's for most of the day (DVD's are a rare at-home thing these days). Tavin isn't really into DVD's, so he glances at them every once in awhile, but keeps busy entertaining himself, drawing pictures or reading books with me or just hanging out with his blanket and stuffed dog, Barkers. Here are the happy boys as we got close to our final destination on Friday. Again we made great time arriving in 7 hours from Nashville to Destin.
The first night we made it over to the beach. Koen was desperate to see the reason we spent all the time in the car and get back to his beloved sand and waves. Tavin was a trooper. Without a nap for two days, it was a lot for him to get out to the beach, but he did well and seemed to enjoy it. Uncle Phil and Aunt Leah came by with Eleanor that first night as well. We had laid the boys down already, so we got to give Eleanor some special attention and give her some personal copies of some of our favorite bedtime books.
Friday was an overcast day, but we still ventured to the beach in the morning (no pics, but don't worry, by the end of the week you will be sick of pictures of my little beach bums). It was actually really nice even though the water was rough and the wind was blowing like crazy. The fresh, salt air was great for all of us and the break from the sun always makes a visit to the beach a little less intense for the boys. It thunderstormed during naptime (perfect for a hard sleep!) and then when the boys woke up it was clearing and we were able to go and check out the community pool. Koen was very excited and loved swimming around despite no sun to warm him up. Both the boys got quite chilly, but were very happy with the experience. They are little fish like myself. I love it!
Phil & Leah and Eleanor joined us for dinner that night. So great to be all together. It's been since the Christmas Tavin was born since we were all together like this. Doug graciously took this picture, squeezing us all in around the chaotic dinner table!
Koen and Tavin are loving their little cousin, Eleanor. They really dote on her giving her tickles and are constantly in her face saying hello or showing her toys. It's actually quite encouraging to see. Looks like these two brothers are getting some good practice for their sibling on the way.
Today is Saturday and it was a quintessential vacation day. We headed out to the beach at a little after 9am and stayed until noon. It was beautiful! Completely sunny, cool breeze, about 80 degrees. The water was still quite rough, but that didn't stop Koen from chasing the waves and definitely didn't stop the boys from all digging walls, forts and pools together. Doug is amazing with the boys on the beach. I think he gets more into some of the engineering projects than the boys at times. =)
Koen is really enjoying reconnecting with Aunt Abbie. They have a very special bond. Today they sat in the water letting the waves get them for about 20 minutes. They were having so much fun laughing and playing, it was so precious. Abbie, you are an amazing aunt!
Despite the fact we live so far from my parents, Tavin is showing such a comfort level with them even though we've only had two visits in the last 4 months. He gains a lot of trust and confidence from the wonderful relationship they have with Koen and I think he desires the same for himself. I love seeing him walking on the beach with my Mom and Dad.
After the morning at the beach, we went back to the house and got lunch together and then headed to the pool for more swimming, playing and a picnic. Just packing in the Florida fun! The boys obviously took great naps and then afterwards (once we finally got Koen awake enough, he really wore himself out!) Doug and Dad took the boys on a bike ride and I had a nice stroll. Then around dinner time Eleanor came over to hang out while Phil & Leah got to have a date night. Here's mom feeding the little cutie.
I've been dying to get my hands on Eleanor and tonight was my chance! She and I made great progress and we had a lot of fun.
Gramma and Grampa are loving getting to know their newest grandchild more and more with every visit and tonight was no exception. Dad loved getting some snuggle time. They are such sweet grandparents. 
Well, the trip is going great. Thanks for all your prayers for safe travels and health. We are having a wonderful time enjoying Florida, but much more so each other. Family is such a great blessing. Stay tuned for more updates!
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