Clinging to Our Last Day of Vacation

As our vacation wraps up, it sadly reminds us that the end of summer break is near. School starts in less than two weeks. It’s time for fall shopping and school supplies. Back to fall sports, homework, evenings with a packed schedule from the time we leave work until it’s bedtime. No, I’m not ready for it!We had a great time at Hilton Head! The first couple of days were rough with Lily teething and her nap schedule off but we settled into a routine by day 3 and had such a great time we were scrambling to extend our stay. Jacob’s pride in being a big brother shined. He learned that he has to watch what he does because at the early age of 1 his little sister looks up to him and copies as much as she can.  She adores him and was constantly wanting to do what he did. She would crawl into his lap, give him hugs and just absorb everything going on around her. Lily started showing her independence and strong will. As many toddlers, she doesn’t like to be told no. She likes to do things her way on her timeline and she lets you know it. She loves to walk! I bought her some squeaky shoes to help her learn to walk properly and they were a hit everywhere we went. She enjoys the squeaky sound they make and wants to walk more which has its pros and cons!

Lily eating a snack in the shade.

Lily just started giving hugs. Here she is hugging on her brother.

Lily copying Jacob and trying to skim-board.

Walt and Jacob enjoyed catching the frisbee in the ocean while Lily and I wandered up and down the beach as I watched Lily brace herself against the strong winds that wanted to knock her down. She loved following her shadow, chasing birds that landed to eat and braving the waves smashing into her (as she saw Jacob do). The waters were relatively calm which made it enjoyable and relaxing but difficult for the 10 year old that wanted to boogie board. We rented umbrellas for some relief from the scorching sun. It made a huge difference and made it possible for us to stay out on the beach the majority of the day.

Even the boys needed a break from the sun.

Lily exhausted!

While we spent most of our time on the coastline, we did break up the evening with a little shopping and putt putt. Jacob got a pair of tennis shoes he is so excited about that he can’t wait to start school so he can wear them (that won’t last long). I surprisingly won at putt-putt. I’m still not sure that happened since I was the one not really trying since I was trying to keep Lily from picking up the balls or from falling in the ponds. Walt and I enjoyed a few stolen moments of quiet, lots of laughter (what else can you do when the baby’s diaper leaks and you have pee running down your leg) and pride in the children’s happiness.

What a wonderful way to wrap up the summer! We will push off the reality of our daily routine for just one more day!

For more vacation pictures view Vacationing with the Family or What I Wore Wednesday – On Vacation!