Vermilion Vacation

We headed up to Lake Vermilion last weekend for a big family get-together. My grandparents came up from Florida and couldn't wait to meet Gavin and see Natalie for only the second time. The kids were perfect travelers (I seriously still can't believe HOW good) and we had a great time.

We actually dedicated both Friday and Sunday to only travel (it was about 6.5 hours one-way) and spent all of Saturday at my uncle's cabin. Gavin fussed a lot cuz of the heat, but still flashed those big dimples to anyone who would pass his way. Natalie had an even better time, meeting all of the relatives, going for two boat rides and even getting to drive the pontoon, catching crayfish, playing on the beach and joining me for a little kayaking.

I'm glad we had the chance to get up there and see everyone. I'm sure we'll be headed back next year too.

Natalie driving the pontoon with Great-Grandpa Jim. Just a few minutes later she fell sound asleep on his lap and later rested curled up in my arms for the rest of the ride. I hadn't held her sleeping like that in months.

My first time kayaking and I took Natalie with me! Nikki and I had a great time paddling the waters and Natalie was a natural staying perfectly still in the kayak so as not to tip us. I think there will be more of this in our future.

Great-Auntie Terry and Great-Grandma BB playing games with little Gavin. He loved it when Grandma would "bonk" heads with him and say "toots."

Natalie and Great-Grandma BB (her name for Bernice) showing off their pretty smiles. Natalie had so much fun seeing them again and showing off all her fun toddler ways.