Charleston--The Beach, Downtown, and Celebrations

A few weeks ago, we left for our first real vacation as a family of three. Since Travis' parents have a vacation house in Charleston and we absolutely love it there, it was a trip we've been looking forward to since Joel came home. The last time we went was the summer of 2007 with Travis' brother Trevor, his wife Christine, and their three kids. We were right in the midst of infertility treatments, so to be there with Joel this year was especially meaningful. We went again with Travis' brother and family, knowing that the kids would have a blast together. I have to tell you that I was pretty nervous about the whole trip. Flying with Joel, the sleep situation, keeping Joel from destroying their beautiful house, sharks and jellyfish...you name it, I probably worried about it. As is the case the majority of the time, I worried for nothing. Everything worked out perfectly, and we had a wonderful time!

Joel did so well on the flight there! He was excited to get on the airplane, and he actually sat in his seat and played for most of the two hour flight. I think his favorite part was the treat he got to eat as we took off and landed. :)


Since we didn't get in to Charleston until later at night, we weren't able to see or do much until the next day. Of course, the first thing we did was hit the beach! Joel absolutely loved it! He had no fear in the water at all. He laughed and squealed when the waves hit him, and even when they knocked him over. He didn't even want to hold our hands in the water.


Besides having fun in the water, we also saw some creatures


dug some holes and played in the sand


drew in the sand

walked in the evening along the fishing pier and beach


and made sea creatures.


Travis' mom and stepdad's house (or Grammy's, as we referred to it) is in a perfect location. Five minutes from the beach, and ten minutes from downtown Charleston. We love downtown as well, and spent much time there, too. We enjoyed some delicious food, including a meal at our favorite restaurant Coast to celebrate our seven year anniversary. We also did some shopping at the market and played in the fountains.


The pineapple fountain photo is a tradition for our trips there. We frame one and leave it at the house for Travis' parents. Here are the photos from this year and 2007. And yes, that's about the best we could get this time!


Not only did we celebrate our seven year anniversary, we also celebrated Father's Day while we were there. Even though I was sad to miss out on seeing my Dad for that special day, it was great to be on vacation and spend the whole day together as a family. We also had some cake at night for Travis and Trevor.

Another post is coming--I just couldn't cram any more into this one!