Birthday Beach Party

Nathan went to his first birthday party last weekend!

Friends of ours have a little girl, Sarah, who turned the big "1!"

Sarah was having a pool/beach party so Nathan was slathered in sunscreen with enough in his hair for some fun styling.  It's almost like he knew how cute he was.

Nathan enjoyed hanging out with his friend poolside.

This was also Nathan's first trip to the beach!

What did he think of it?  Well, at first he wasn't so sure about all that sand and salt water.

After a minute or two, he was liking the sand a little too much.   We had to have the "sand is not edible" talk with him.

The beach was surprisingly warm for May and Nathan actually went all the way in the water with us.

Nathan remains a relatively easy-going baby, he is such a joy to be with!

"We get to wear hats at the party? Awesome! Anything else?"

"Cupcakes?!!! I have no idea what this is but I'm LOVIN' it!"

Lauren and Britton in the Bahamas

Later that week we went to Jupiter, and left Nathan to play with his Grandma while Britton and I went on a 2 night cruise to Grand Bahama.  We learned two things: 1) Grandma is capable of safely taking care of Nathan, relax; 2) flying to the Bahamas is much better than taking a boat (I got so sea sick, I felt pretty terrible for about 72 hours, yuck).

Britton playing bingo on the boat.

Behind us is where my dear friend, Sarah, got married in 2007!

If I was a bird, I'd move to the Bahamas.

This perfect day was just a little overcast, low 80s, nice.

In the Bahamas with the love of my life! (Next time, let's fly so the ground's not rocking!)

Ann and Carter in Tampa

Britton had the first week of May off for a much needed break.  Ann brought Carter down to visit us for a couple of days and to make a trip to Busch Gardens (to which we bought annual passes so I guess we'll be going there often!).

Nathan and I hanging out in the shade. 

Carter met Grover at Busch Garden's "A is for Africa" Sesame street show!

Ann was a trouper and accompanied Carter on every wet ride that allowed little boys under 48". 

Ann and Carter and .... a creepy looking tree guy.

Ann watched Nathan while Britton and I climbed on a huge play structure with Carter.

Ann and Carter prepare to get wet!

Nathan was such a trooper on this long day!!!

Carter gets driving lessons from the best!

Carter takes to the skies!

Hanging out with our fellow primates in the gorilla area.

Carter - the champ of chimps.

1...2.... now make a gorilla face...3!

Nathan LOVED visiting with his cousin, and we think the feeling was mutual!