The Beach

Nick had a conference at The Grand in Fairhope back in October. I've only stayed one night in April when we went down to plan for this conference. So this was the first time I could really enjoy all the luxuries at The Grand.

If you haven't been, then you must go now! I LOVE THE GRAND!!

Nick was busy with the conference, and I had a few obligations with the spouses' program (which is more fun than it sounds). I actually won $100 playing bingo! It was wonderful of my parents to come with us to babysit. They actually came to the The Grand on their honeymoon over 30 years ago. They were able to get a copy of the page where they signed the guest book! The front desk said the honeymoon books are one of the first things they secure when a hurricane is coming.

The first couple of days were very warm, and we were able to do a lot of swimming! The staff was so friendly and helpful. It was a beautiful time of year to be there. I hate I didn't get a picture of the pool because it is awesome and very kid friendly. My parents and children also enjoyed going to downtown Fairhope to eat a few times.

One of my favorite parts was the spa! On our last morning I enjoyed the best 50 minute massage! Just sitting in the dark quiet room was relaxing. My body was relaxed for the rest of the day!

   
From The Grand we went on to Fort Morgan. My parents took my children a day early, and my sister and her family joined us too. We had two condos next door to each other on the ground floor. I think this is the best set up for going to the beach, especially with children. It was easier to go in and out of the condos, and the kids had the grassy area to play and ride bikes.

We had a wonderful time! Doc cooked up some fantastic dinners, and we could not have asked for better weather. And the week ended with my birthday!

 Nick bought a big shovel and built this hill on the first day. It was a big hit!

  Millie never wants to get in a picture unless you are trying to photograph someone else. In this case, I was trying to take a picture of Lovie and Doc. She did this more than once on this trip. 

 Me and James on my 29th birthday! 

We tried with all five! I think my sister got a better one.

Thanks Lovie and Doc for a great trip! Millie is still asking about going back!

Recent Travels

I've been wanting to blog for weeks, but I just kept putting it off. We were out of town several times over the past two months. Nick's work schedule has also been different lately, so blogging has been last on my list. I have many pictures, recipes, and home updates to share.

I will start by sharing some pictures of our trip to Mississippi back in September. Nick and I both had our 10 year high school reunions within a week of each other. The children and I spent a week and a half in Mississippi, and Nick came home in between the reunions. We had a great time at both reunions catching up with old friends.

While we were in Mississippi, we went to the McCarty Pottery studio. I love McCarty! I have a lot of it in my house, but I have never been to the studio. It is about an hour from my parents' house. I loved seeing all the pottery, and Millie had fun running around the garden.

Mr. McCarty himself was there, and he gave Millie and James their own blue birds.

 

While we were there we also walked down to my aunt and uncle's house to play in their cute playhouse. 

 

Spending time in Mississippi is always refreshing. I also accomplished some much needed shopping, exercising, and relaxing. Since then we have also been to the beach. Those pictures will be coming soon!