The Whole Family (well almost)

My family (minus Richard)
Mom, can you please take my picture with the Alligator!

Funny family photo!

Important Praises: While on this trip we have had a couple of scary incidents that I am so blessed to share have ended well. Don is healing well after her trip to the emergency room for the deep cut she got on her hand. And more recently, I must praise the Lord using my cousin Dylan to save Caleb when he fell into the pool yesterday!!! I was inside while many of my family members were watching the boys. It was just an accident but thankfully the family was right there and saw him fall. THANK YOU DYLAN and most importantly, THANK YOU GOD!! I pray almost daily they won't drown in this pool and God definitely answered my prayer yesterday. Pools really scare me.

My day started off sad as we said good bye to Richard and my cousin Dylan. Richard left early before we too our family photo! My dear Richard has never made it into this picture. Sorry about that babe! We do love you though :)

The rest of the day was wonderful. It was a beautiful day. The ocean even looked more like it has in past years. I couldn't even see any oil residue today. I even saw a few people walking in the water. That is a good sign I think.

The boys had a delightful day in the pool. I think Clay would stay all day long if I would let him. Between pool swims, the boys and I buried each other in the sand. I loved it! The boys did too!!

We ended the night with the annual Monopoly game. Surprisingly, I have not lost completely yet. I actually have property with houses on it. We will continue to game tomorrow. My dad and brothers are usually in a fight to the finish. My grandmother, Don, gives them a run for their "money." This game is a highlight of the trip, but I would definitely say good sportsman ship is out the window - it is every man for himself :)

I am so glad we came to Gulf Shores - despite the oil. The community is really hurting and needs support. Restaurants and even the mall have plenty of parking and very little wait, unusual for this time of year. We have had a blast!

Getting tired, better get some rest.

God Bless You and Have a safe and Happy 4th!