More family!

Part of Grams' family began having a reunion 4 years ago (I believe).  Bryant and I have been to all of them and Emerson of course made his first appearance last year.  But, this year he really got to enjoy the experience of the Clay/Evans Family Reunion.  Its always nice to have these once a year get togethers since you never know when you'd get to see certain people otherwise.  Emerson was a little scared by all the new faces and clung to Grams the moment she walked in the door, but it didn't take too long before he was wanting to play with the big kids and the cute puppy!  Of course, playing out on the playground was a must!  We even got our first taste of corn on the cob...apparently, we like it.

Of course, what would a trip that close be, if we didn't head to the fairgrounds after?!

We love our Grams!

Hi!

Daddy & Aunt Reagan are funny!

Ms Judy gets a high five

And a sweet picture

Petting Cocoa with Mr Mike

I'm a big boy!  I don't need a baby swing...

Sliding down the big kids slide!

Aunt Reagan always has something cool

Brushing Grams' hair

Pop made it!!

Penn's after church with Papaw
& the crew...nothing better!

   

Independence Day!

I've gotten lazy!  But it's time to catch up since the Fair is around the corner...

July 4th.  Independence Day.  A time to remember our nation's beginnings, our freedom, and those who fight for our freedom.  And a day to enjoy family.  The Jackson Family Fish Fry has been going on for over 50 years.  It's always nice to see people you don't see often and this was Emerson's first opportunity to go!  Last year, between Destin and the Fair it was just too much and too hot for us to go.  We missed Lane, Robert, Ellington, and Reagan; but it was fun to visit with some of the Jackson brothers and sisters (& families).  Of course, since we can, why not head to the fairgrounds too!

A view from not quite across the pond

Grams Pop & Emerson

Flags flown in Afghanistan during Josh Jackson's service there

We love our Papaw

We love our Pop

Yea!  The fairgrounds!  Outside! Now!

Hi Daddy!

Hi Emerson!

Destin Day 4 & 5

Emerson decided he needed to wake up earlier than normal today, so Daddy being the awesome Daddy he is, took Emerson out for a walk around the Wharf and to the play ground!

Tunnel!

Climbing up the tree house by the harbor

After their return and breakfast...

Tuesday = Pool day

Good thing I didn’t waste much money on sand toys!  We spend most of the morning at the pool where Grams joined us!  Emerson made a few friends too.  It’s fun to meet new people on vacation, especially at the pool at the Grand.  It seems like being there just makes everyone more friendly feeling.  

Splashing Mommy

Self Portrait

But, we soon tired of the pool and the three of us decided on a bike ride to round out the morning.  

Ready to ride!

After lunch, Emerson passed out.  Waking up early after a late night will do that to you.  Bryant and I took advantage of the nap and went for a little trip over to the Silver Sands Factory Outlet.  Lane & Robert were staying at the hotel and watching Emerson!  Our supper at Cheeseburger in Paradise (Come on sing it, you know you want to…) didn’t seem to agree with me, so I went back to the hotel while Bryant and Emerson made a little trip to the water fountain/splash area at The Market Shops at Sandestin.  They ran into our favorite lawyer Martin and his family!  

When they made it back to the hotel, we all decided to take another walk around the Wharf. 

Wednesday.  It’s always sad to leave the fun, but its now time to go home.  We were the last to arrive and to leave the hotel.  But there’s always next year (maybe?!).  After a stop in Daphne, AL at Five Guys we made our way home.  Emerson was more than happy to never see the car again!  30 minute naps (if that) in the car just aren’t enough.  Plan for next year: find a fun part time business & save money for plane tickets!               

Bye Bye