Our Week at the Beach

Before I get to the beach pictures, we put Drew in the bath with Evan for the first time a week or so ago. Drew was only in there briefly and Evan didn't mind! I wanted to wash the sunscreen Drew was wearing and Evan helped me wash his face.







We joined my parents, my brother, and my Aunt Maria and Uncle John at Myrtle Beach, SC last week. It was so much fun and very nice to be able to get together. The kids had a lot of fun. This is Evan's 3rd trip to the beach but alas he is still too young to remember the ocean from time to time, so each time, we start fresh in getting him used to the beach.

We're here! Run down to the beach!



Nevermind, I am not going near that big ocean.



Big beach, little boy.



Checking it out from the safety of Daddy.



Evan says, "hug Gabbah" while Mom balances a famous lemon drop made by Uncle John.



Mom and Aunt Maria.



First day on the beach. Evan held is feet up because he didn't like the way the sand felt on his bare feet. Sandals it is!



He is still not sure what to make of the big ocean.



Drew and I hung out in the shade.



Drew didn't really like the cold water on his feet. He would fuss when the water rolled over his chubby little feet, but as soon as I lifted him up each time he stopped fussing.



Not so sure either.



Evan liked this hat for about 30 seconds.



Taking a walk with Grandad.



Drew really isn't down with any water that is below "warm bath" temperature.



Awww, it's okay Drew!



Another morning on the beach.



Drew trying to figure out this snack trap of Evan's.



Time to get your feet wet!



Evan turned the bouncy seat into his recliner.



Evan's first time on a flat board swing. I almost went into cardiac arrest when I saw this. Evan was doing fine though, hanging on tight and enjoying the ride!



Here is some video of him swinging, it turns the right way after a few seconds.



While you are watching video, here is one of just how active Drew is. He is never sitting still and really wants to be on the move! I think he is plotting his autonomous breakthrough.



Halfway through our visit, we decided to give our slightly burned skin a break and visit Ripley's Aquarium. They really know how to impress over there and load the tanks with sea creatures, including sharks, saw fish, sting rays and eels.

Drew peaking out from the sling.



Sea turtle from the bottom.



Smooching battle!



Eels looking gross as ever.



Evan eating at Drunken Jack's. He loved the hush puppies and french fries. I convinced him to try a shrimp by calling it a nugget. A shrimp nugget. He took a bite and wasn't interested in any more!



Evan saying the obligatory "CHEESE!"



There was a VERY windy day on the beach and we didn't even bother setting up the tent or the umbrella.



James trying to convince Evan to wear his sunglasses.



It worked for about 5 minutes.



Evan had his first ice cream cone ever! It was Painter's Homemade Ice Cream and with the sun and wind it melted all over the place. Evan loved it.





Evan also went for his first bike ride and he enjoyed that immensely.



He kept wanting another ride on the "bikickle." So, my parents took him.



Drew took a couple really good naps in his cabana on the sand.



Evan ate calamari! Or as I told him; Circle Fries.



We had so much fun!