Life Is Better at the Beach

Jonah and Julia closing around with Uncle Peter.

For Noah's 10th birthday, he and Sam went parasailing.  The report was generally positive with only a little water splashing on their feet.

Why use the cushions on the couch when you've got Uncle Peter around?

Check out this fresh flower arrangement at the Diving Horse, one of our date night locations.  I want something like this for my house - that's not too unreasonable an ask is it?

Date night dinner with one of my favs

Date night dinner crew at the Diving Horse.  The Watsons, Dorns, Lewises and Leslie have known us for what now feels like forever, and have loved us and walked with us through so much.  Love may not show up in a photo, but this picture is full of it.

Julia was trying to edge in on Noah's friend for a bit.  10 year old boy allegiances run strong though, and although Sam tolerated Julia's hugs, he was quickly off to play with Noah.

After a 15 year anti-mini golf stance, I relented as some kind connections in Avalon gave us free games, and the family went mini golfing.  I have to confess, it wasn't as bad as I remember it being and the kids had a great time!

Julia is working to patent her side push golf technique - just think of it as a really long swing.

Date night part two.  Everything I said about date night one applies here.  The Watsons, Gordons, Murgatroyds and Leslie hold our hearts having loved us through the years.  Someone said this summer, that you can't make an old friend and we are grateful to have so many wonderful old friends.

Matching glitter dragonfly tattoos - but of course!!!!

Jonah and Julia working on their sand creations

 The ladies poolside

This year was really fun because Julia "found her people" in the younger set of our Avalon crowd.  As parents, we've been waiting for these girls to discover each other and are so thankful that they finally did!

Back in our Salem days, before any of us were married - we would have never predicted this, and how sweet it is.

Boardwalk family photo

When your kids make friends with your friends' kids - oh how full my heart is.  May these be friendships that last years and transcend miles.

What Avalon trip is complete without a photo with Auntie Leslie?

Oh Avalon - I don't know how you do it, but every year you fill my cup to overflowing.  Life really is better at the beach isn't it?  This year was especially sweet because our sweet realtor, Karen Nardone from Coldwell Banker reached out to some local businesses to make our stay even more special after learning about our family's story.  A special shout out to Buccaneers Ice Cream, Avalon Coffee, Princeton's, Go Fish mini golf and @Shore Service Linens for all of the gift certificates.  Another shout out to the anonymous donors of the Hoy's gift cards, the Avalon bags and entertainment and the cookies.  Thanks to all of you for making this year at Avalon extra special - we look forward to being back next year!