1st Beach Trip-July 2016

"Happiness" does not describe it. I wish I had Zoe's reaction to seeing the ocean for the first time on video. My heart about jumped out of my chest! The smile will never leave that area of my soul. She audibly squealed as we drove over the Bay. Squealed! Then, as we entered the condo and she could see out through the sliding glass back door the wide ocean and white beach, she ran as fast as she could to look outside. Then she ran to the next room, then the next. And finally came back to the opened balcony with words I'll never forget: "I'm freaking out!" 😂😂😂😂😂 Never have I heard that word nor that phrase from my little girl . . . but she was absolutely freaking out! And my heart was/is full. 

We checked out the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. It's super small, but still has some things the kids don't normally get to do. Like hold alligators and snakes! YIKES!

We also visited Fort Walton, which has some cool things to see. But boy was it hot that day!

Finally got a pic of us all, but Juju wasn't feeling well. He trooped through the day, though!

Beach life!

The waterpark at Waterville USA was the kids' favorite spot on earth!

Everyone at Waterville knew how much Zoe loved the place! The shrieks and screams were like the waves of the ocean: never ending. I'm not sure how she has a voice today. And she was tall enough and brave enough to try the big slide! I couldn't believe it! We walked up those steps and flew down the slide A LOT!

There are no ways to be a perfect dad. But I'm sure there are many ways to be a good one. She'll never know the fears I have of keeping her from seeing a therapist later in life. The struggle of balancing adoration with discipline. Of my determination to not be the first man to break her heart. The effort involved in instilling self confidence in herself while maintaining her faith in my protection. It's hard being Daddy! And beautiful! She is the apple of my eye.

One of the highlights for Mommy and me was relaxing with Captain Jason from the boat A Pair a Dice. He helped us find LOTS of dolphins up close and personal. And we were able to fish!!! Zoe caught the most! :)