Saturday, September 22, 2007

She's a Beach Girl!

After a night of driving six hours, checking into our hotel, getting a young toddler settled into an unfamiliar crib, and sneaking out the hotel's pool towels (of course we didn't think to pack our own), we were ready to head to the beach. Armed with oh so cute swim attire, Miss Addison finally had her beach debut.

The verdict...She loved it and took 1st prize in the swimsuit competition. This babe wasted no time digging her beach ready feet deep into the sand

and had a blast building sandcastles with us.


Yes, we have discovered that our sweetie is a beach girl. After awhile, she tried out her beginning walking skills. That didn't work in the thick sand so she did what she does best when the walking thing gets too complicated --- crawl!

Miss Addison was a little more reserved with her excitement about chillin' on a float navigated by her daddy. She was somewhat unsure about being in what must have felt like a giant bathtub without bounderies. After a couple of minutes of taking in the sights, smells, and sounds, our beach babe relaxed, smiled, and allowed her hands to glide through the salty water. Of course she took this opportunity to sample the water by licking her hands. I guess she was thirsty from the free sand samples! After about fifteen minutes of floating, our beach babe almost dozed off! I think this girl understands what vacations are all about! Watching Addison perched upon that bright pink float in that beautiful blue-green water was such a Kodak moment.


By the second day, Addison had to admit to herself that sand isn't so palatable so instead she devoted her time to sifting, pouring and rubbing sand over her skin. Well it's never too soon to learn the benefits of exfoliating!
During those two days at the beach, I couldn't help but think about how far we've come as a family. My thoughts bounced between wondering what Addison would be doing if she were still in Ethiopia, to wondering what Aaron and I would be doing if we didn't have this darling girl in our life. But there's one thing I know for sure. Florida's beaches are wonderful, but watching Addison discover new things brings pure sunshine into our lives regardless of where we are.


6 comments:

Jocelyn said...

She is so cute in her bikini:-) Sounds like you had a great trip!!

Handlyrics said...

She is adorable in her swimsuit. Seems like she likes the beach.
Chevella

Anonymous said...

What wonderful memories and pictures and she looks precious in her little bikini! Your commentary about life as Addison's Mom almost always produces tears. We will always have that kinship of longing and waiting for and then enjoying the blessing that is the gift of our children.

Gracie's Mom said...

Oh Miss Addison is tooo cute in her lil swimsuit. I just luv it. She looks happy as a clam!

Renee said...

Watch out Miss USA- Addison is here! So cute! We were in your neigborhood this weekend- I can't beleive how much has been built!
Renee

Anonymous said...

Hello! Congratulations (yes, a little belated :) ) Addison is absolutely adorable!

I am writing a comment on here as I couldn't find an email address anywhere. Sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if you have any other photos at Kechene Children's Home as my little daughter is still currently living there and I'm looking for some photos of her from when she was younger. She's 5 1/2 years old now. If you have any, could you please send them to a mommy who is yearning for those younger years? :)

Thank you! And again, a belated Congratulations!

My email is bettinakeppers@hotmail.com

Bettina