The Family York: Seabrook Island, SC

In June we had a little something to celebrate. My mom and dad celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary!! They wanted to have a relaxing beach vacation, and we found an amazing beach house in South Carolina. So we all headed there from our separate states and met up for a wonderful week of beach, sun, food, history, family and fun!

Goofy Guy and his family from Florida

The family from Illinois

A pen...the epitome of entertainment

The house was amazing! It was in a private community and our back yard was set on one of the golf courses fairways. The beach was a short bike ride away and we took advantage of that most of the days we were there. The thoughtful owners provided lots of beach toys, beach chairs, and bikes.

A nice welcome bouquet for my parents

Dining room and living room

A few beds in the loft

On the back of the house was a gigantic screened in porch that overlooked the golf course. It was so cozy with it's cushioned furniture, fans and breezes. We spent almost every night out here. After Sophie would go to bed, we all retired to the porch for a friendly game of dice or Uno, and a few adult beverages. We laughed until we cried a few times. The perfect way to end our evenings.

Our back porch! Complete with fans, cushions and cool breezes

Who doesn't love a comfy hammock?

Pool time with my bestie

Sleepy baby after the beach

A hammock ride with Auntie Mel!

Mom and Dad with their other "daughter" Mel

We took a day trip to Charleston, SC for a little carriage ride. My dad is a huge history buff, and no trip with him would be complete without a little cultural lesson in what the area has to offer. We hopped on a carriage pulled by two mules (much to my surprise) and rode around historic downtown Charleston. Sophie was amused by all the "horses" around town. We took in the sights of all the beautiful homes and historic landmarks. Listening to the man who drove the carriage and lead the tour, I could see my dad doing something similar. He would really be in his element!

Carriage ride

Sophie was able to pet the horse!

Most afternoons, Sophie would go down for her nap, and the girls would head to the beach! It was so peaceful and relaxing. We frequently saw dolphins swimming very close to us. But, the moment anyone felt "something" on their legs, we were out of that water so fast! I don't think I've seen three ladies move so fast. The guys got to enjoy some time on their own as well. Dan went golfing on Father's Day/Mom and Dad's 40th Anniversary and took an excellent driver/caddy along with him. Dad and Dan hit the local golf course for a round after our time at the beach one day. The girls had a little something special planned for dinner when they returned. A delicious steak dinner! We ate so much and shared stories of the day my mom and dad met. Good times...

Gamma and Sophie collecting shells and splashing in the waves!

Playing catch with Papa

Playing catch with Daddy and Papa. I think she actually "fetched"

Having lunch with Gamma!

A few weeks before we headed to South Carolina, I was telling Sophie that we were going to go to the beach with Grandma and Grandpa. So, when she talked to them on the phone, she mentioned going to the beach. Grandma asked her if she would collect shells with her. This was something that Sophie would not soon forget. Later on that night, quite a while after the phone conversation, Sophie said she wanted to collect shells with Gamma and Papa. When I told her that we wouldn't be going for a few more days, she started crying, saying "I want to collect shells!" This happened pretty frequently until we got to South Carolina. Lesson learned: Be careful what you say to a two year old!