Alabama Trip

My step-sister, Rindy, graduated from college in Alabama. My parents and my step-sister's family planned to come down for the graduation ceremonies. Since it is only a 8.5 hour drive plus Joseph's grandparents live in Alabama, we decided to head over for the week. It was nice to have a family vacation with Joseph for once. Over the summer, we went to Wisconsin twice but he couldn't join us. Vacations are much nicer when both parents are there! Right before we left, my parents had some RV/vehicle problems so they didn't make it. It was still a wonderful time with cousins and family.

We split the drive into two days on the way there. We stopped in Baton Rouge and went to the zoo there. Joseph met up with an old friend at night to watch Monday Night Football so he was happy.

 

The kids did well in the car. Ashton loved her new headphones. It was a way to keep her quiet during Tanner's naps.

Tuesday afternoon to Friday, we stayed in Gulf Shores, AL. We rented a beach house, which was perfect for the family! Everyone had their own room/area so that was wonderful!The kids did well on the trip. Ashton was so excited for a road trip because she had no clue what it meant. She made it almost to the end of our driveway before asking if we were there yet.

Wednesday, we went to the beach across the street from our place. After lunch, we went on a dolphin cruise in the gulf. Ashton enjoyed seeing the dolphins swim around. That night, we celebrated Joe's birthday with his favorite meal, tacos.

They made the kids wear lifejackets on the dolphin cruise. Tanner was not impressed. Thankfully after about 10 minutes of him struggling to fall asleep during the cruise, the captain said I could take it off. Then he fell asleep.

Ashton thought we were playing hide and seek with the dolphins.

Thursday morning, Ashton and I went mini-golfing for the first time. She enjoyed it a lot. That afternoon, we went swimming and then went to the open house/social for Rindy's school.

Friday, we watched our nephew while Rindy graduated. Joseph took Ashton and him to a cool park while Tanner slept at the house. After lunch, we headed north to see Joe's grandparents. His parents were there as well for their visit.

Friday afternoon was spent picking pecans and having a family dinner at one grandparent's home. Saturday morning, we visited the other side of the family and took the kids to the family farm. Ashton enjoyed petting the cows and dogs as well as picking up chicken eggs. I sometimes wish we had a big farm to take the kids to. So much exploration and learning happens there! Then we had a picnic lunch at a park with family.

A cute dress we found in Gulf Shores.

After playing with family at the park, we headed back home Saturday afternoon and drove straight back. We made the 8.5 hour drive with only one stop for dinner! The kids did really well on the road trip. I still prefer to fly but driving went well. Thankfully we won't be going on any long road trips anytime soon.