Coast Guard Festival 2010

It's that time of year again! Every August Ben and I head up to his hometown of Grand Haven, MI, for their annual Coast Guard Festival. It's a fun-filled, jam packed week of boating, parades, carnivals, beach time, swimming, drinking, eating, fireworks and visiting. And this year Emery joined us! We had an amazing time and Emery was spoiled rotten by her grandparents. Emery and I actually left the day before the major festivities take place because things tend to go late into the night and I wasn't sure about childcare or how she would do with the huge crowds and late nights. However, Emery aced her trial run and we will definitely stick around longer next year. Daddy is still in Grand Haven enjoying the chaos without us. Getting out of the SC heat for five days was perhaps the best treat of all. I think poor Emery had forgotten what playing outdoors feels like! Both of Ben's brothers made the trip, which made things extra special for two reasons: 1) Scott is in the country and, 2) New cousin Alexa was introduced to the extended family. I am bummed we left early but so glad for the time we had with the Slagel clan and the rest of Grand Haven....it's such a special little town.
Daddy and Emery waiting to board the plane in Atlanta

Drinks at the airport. Flying alone with Emery went really smoothly, thank goodness. Em has racked up lots of miles in the air since birth. We average flight every two months, I determined while sitting on the plane last night.

Emmy with her Slagel grandparents

Ben taking Emery for a "walk" at Kids' Day

Riding the merry-go-round at the carnival

Scott, Jerry, Linda (back)

Jerry (holding Austin), Korey (holding Alexa), me, Emery and Ben
The family on "My Three Sons" (Ben's parents' boat)

Austin the sailor

Chill Lexi

The Slagel boys

Emery and Austin taking a break at the beach