The Reynolds Family: Kiawah 2011

The first year we went to the beach with Scotlen, we plopped her down in the sand. She looked around, curiously grabbed a handful, observed that it was sticking to her, and began screaming. And that was pretty much characteristic of her first beach trip. Subsequent years have seen her become more and more favorable to the concept, including running around on the open sand and a fierce obsession with tidal pools. But not until this year has she really liked the waves. Well, this year, she loved them. Scotlen was so excited about playing in the waves this year that she could often be seen (or heard) yelling at them. Both scared and thrilled at the same time. And, by the end of the week, she was brave enough to dive under them and let them smack her in the back and head.

This year also saw Scotlen make an appointment to visit the local nature center, where she learned about all sorts of interesting (i.e. gross) reptiles. She was even permitted to pet turtles, a snake, and an alligator. This was a big hit. It's just lucky they didn't bring out any spiders, or I fear Kyle would have abandoned her.

Jonas also continued to develop a love of the beach in 2011. He would wade into the water and play in the surf. He also enjoyed chasing sea gulls and, of course, eating. All in all, this year's trip to Kiawah was an absolute success, and one we will treasure forever.