Virginia Beach, 2011

This year we had (once again) a fantastic trip to Virginia Beach. This was our last trip as a family of three (minus Deuce). The trip included Rubi turning four, Rubi's first trip to an emergency room, and our first year being joined by family. It was awesome, just what we needed before the new addition made her appearance.

Our first walk on the beach this year.

Taylor trying to get Rubi closer to the ocean. Which is actually closer than her father and I have ever been able to do.

With Margot on the way, Rubi was very cuddly with Daddy this year, which I know Neil loved every second of.

This usually only happens twice a year, I'm always sure to capture it on film.

Enjoying the park and boardwalk by the beach.

Most mornings this year, Rubi and I would sit on the front porch to eat our breakfast. With a fantastic view of the ocean, Rubi didn't even mind eating with her Mom.

Frisbee with Daddy and Uncle Tommy.

Daddy and Rubi digging for treasure, which Rubi was obsessed with finding this year.

Rubi "filling" her bucket with water. For a child that goes to the beach every year, you would think she would be a little more at ease with the ocean.

Tommy, the only child brave enough to be buried. Although, I think Neil may have forced him to do it.

Tori, Rubi, Taylor and Tommy.

Family photo (plus one).

Enjoying some ice cream on the board walk.

Rubi decided to take her own beach photos this year. On our way to Virginia she was constantly snapping shots of the road and cars passing by.

We all had our fair share of sun this year. By the second day most of us were wearing huge hats to cover our very sun burnt heads.

My Sister Tawnee and Me.

(As we do every year) On the rainiest day of the week, we headed to the Virginia Beach Aquarium. It never disappoints.

Rubi's cousin, Tommy.

Rubi and her cousin Tori.

This year, we were lucky enough to be joined on our trip by my sister Tawnee, her Husband Tommy, and their three kids. Tori is about 5 months older than Rubi, as you can imagine they are very close. The two usually have a love-hate relationship, but they got along all week (well, most of it). The week went really well, the only cranky child was our dog Deuce.

One of the last places we were able to visit this year was the Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is only about 5 blocks from the house we stayed in. This was actually the first year we went on the hike. We didn't see any wild horses, but we did see a few dolphin and a gorgeous, clean beach.