Summer Fun With Family

July 26 – August 9, 2012

Thursday, July, 26^th we were up and on our way to the Regan International Airport at 7:00 AM.  A couple of hours later Gotta Smile was pulled to have her repairs and maintenance addressed.  Of course, the primary reason to pull her was the result of me docking on the African rock pile near Blackbeard Island.  Once out of the water, we were informed that the damage was much more extensive than the diver reported.  Apparently that bull shark that was stalking him was the focus of his attention.  Imagine that!?!?!  Instead of a few scrapes and dings – 75% of the keel was gauged, both stabilizers were damaged and additional random scratches were evident.  Thank God, Krogen builds a boat that can take a lot more than I can inflict!  By the time we got back, she was as good as new and the only reminders are a few pictures and a memorable story.

Pearls & sunglasses on -- ready to shop!

Next stop – St Louis.  We arrived in time to watch JAC and Christopher participate in karate, ice skating, tap and ballet. Most of our visit was spent in their pool:  diving for rings, making big splash dives and lounging.  JAC’s swimming stroke resembles someone drowning.  Just when we think “I’ve got to grab her – she’s definitely in trouble”, she lifts her head, grabs a gulp of air and continues her dead man’s float with a few intermittent kicks.  Some how -- she does make it across the pool.  It is very scary!!!   



First day on hockey skates.



Getting these little cuties to follow directions is like --
herding cats!



Chillin in the pool.

Karate test to promote Christopher 
from orange to purple belt ... he passed!

Monday, July 30^th we drove to Minnesota for a week with Steve and his family.  They live on eleven acres with a small private lake.  It is a spectacular property.  We had time to visit friends, swim in the lake, go for boat rides, celebrate birthdays, visit the Washington County Fair and attend the Science Museum’s ‘Real Pirate’ display.  Of course, we had to watch bits and pieces of the Olympics.

Washington County Fair -- cows, horses and tractors.




 

Lovin his ride

Happy trails for Addison, Erin and Niko

 

Niko wouldn't stay in his time out chair...
This seems to work.



Hanging out with Blackbeard.



 

Time for a little boating and swimming.

Tuesday, August 7^th we were back in the car and driving to St Louis.  A quick 40 hour lay over with Jennifer and family before we were on the plane heading back to DC.  It was great to see all of the family and so many friends, but we were ready to get back to our home and continue the adventure.

Gotta Smile – we’re lovin the ride!