Fernandina, Day Three.

Oh, I miss the beach already.

We spent a leisurely morning at the condo on Friday.  After deciding to switch things up a bit, we got ready for a morning at the pool.

I love these sweet babies.  For the most part, having four kiddos is just my life...I don't really think about it. Every once in a while, though, I look at pictures and can't help but think, "Seriously.  They are all mine."

I can't imagine life any other way.

We had a great morning splashing around.  Everybody loved the pool!  (For most of the time, at least.  Harris got a little frustrated as he worked to meet the "swim challenge" Ben gave him...to swim from one end of the pool to the other, lengthwise, without stopping.  He was totally capable of doing it but didn't really want to work.  Quitting was much easier for him.)

We headed back inside for lunch and naps.  Granti and the Bens decided to walk the Egan Creek Greenway.  Evidently, it was long and hot.  I think they spotted quite a few alligators but I'm not sure the trip was worth it. :)

Once everyone cooled off and showered, we headed for an early dinner at Sliders.  I love me some Sliders.

We were stoked to find a shrimp statue still standing right outside the restaurant!  They've all been removed from downtown, which is a bummer because we take a family picture beside one every year.  It made my night to find this guy!

In addition to great food, Sliders always has the perfect atmosphere.  The weather cooperated, too, and we had a delicious, cool dinner on the beach.

We headed back to the condo after dinner, put the big kids in their bathing suits, and headed out to spend the evening on the beach.  Evenings on the beach are perfection.  No heat, no sunscreen, no tents or umbrellas.  It's perfect.

Ben and Harris even played a little football on the beach!  Harry's getting pretty good at running routes and actually catching the ball!

Schwimmy (her newest nickname) got her clothes wet--of course--and had to be stripped down to her diaper.  She didn't miss a beat.

When we'd had our fill of the beach, we headed to the pool to do a little night swimming.  Well, Ben and the biggies did a little night swimming.  I watched for a bit before putting the babies in the bed.

Not too long after I headed inside, I could hear shouts coming from the pool area and knew that Harris had met his challenge.  The boys were ecstatic when they finally made it inside.  Harris was SO proud of himself and Ben had tears in his eyes...what a great lesson for my boy on the power of not giving up!  Not only did Harris learn that he CAN do things when he puts his mind to it but he also earned the "Agent P" stuffed animal he's had his eye on for weeks.  It was awesome.

I pray it's a feeling he never forgets.