Ella's First Trip to the Beach

Ella is definitely a beach baby! I was so excited to take her, and it was actually the last week at Mom & Glenn's house on the beach because they had sold it and the closing was the week after we were there. We've had such wonderful memories there over the last 8 years so I am really glad we got to take Ella there at least once.

Before Ella, trips to the beach consisted of relaxing, laying in the sun, going swimming once we get too hot, reading books all day, having a few drinks, and just general laziness and relaxation...oh how different it is with a baby!

Heading down to the beach, post-Ella: Once the timing is right (read: after first nap, one feeding, one bottle, and a meal of cereal & veggies), we are ready to start getting ready - and of course there is no easy preparation, instead it involves about 20 minutes of preparation getting Ella all ready to go, slathering on many layers of sunscreen, and packing everything we may (or may not!) need.

Then, once we finally get on the beach, my mental clock starts ticking about how long I really want her to be exposed to the sun and the countdown begins before for her next nap! However, it is completely worth it to have her there and get to share the beach with her. Aside from the fact that she is absurdly cute in a bathing suit, she was such a perfect little beachcomber and had a great time.

Here is Ella's first look at the ocean


Checking out the waves


Can you even believe this beautiful girl???




At the pool


So sweet


Funny face for the camera


With Grammy


Nap time


My friend Rachel (from first grade!) came to visit us on Wednesday and got to meet Ella and we spent the day together - it was so great to see her and such a wonderful visit.




It was just Mom, Ella & I the first half of the week and then Steve & Glenn came up on Wednesday night.

With daddy in the shade


Daddy & Gramps



Playing in the sand




Fast asleep


Me & my baby


The 3 of us


Cutest napper ever - check out that tummy!!


And - a new side of Ella emerged - ANGRY ELLA - she will have a little flash where she gets frustrated about something and her face gets completely upset, she puts her fists into little balls and puts her hands stiffly at her sides, and makes the crankiest face! It's so funny b/c it only lasts for a second and then disappears - she doesn't cry or anything, just makes her angry Ella face and then moves on...too cute.

Here it is caught on camera


Mom watched Ella several times once Steve got there so we were able to go out a bit and Glenn took us jet-skiing one day which was so much fun. Stomach virus excluded, it was a completely wonderful trip, and definitely a great first vacation for our precious Ella!!