Cousins!!!

Elle and Ava finally got to meet last week!  

It was such a special time to all be together and watch the girls "play." Although Elle was a little rough and often made Ava cry, I have no doubt they will grow up to be best friends one day (if Anna and I have anything to do with it).

We're already planning summers spent at the beach together, visits to the lake, and sweet little letters exchanged back and forth.  These two, though separated by lots of miles, will hold a special place in each other's lives.  SO grateful for sweet baby Ava and cannot wait to watch their relationship grow over the years!

Elle's signature happy move...hands over the head, big smile on the face!

Poor Ava got bombarded by kisses from Elle.  It's like she knew they were cousins - she usually only gives kisses to those she knows very well....Ava got them right away!

This picture makes me feel SO richly blessed! 

I love these two with all my heart.

It's almost like Elle was comforting Ava!

"It's ok baby girl - it gets better, I promise.  Just wait....they even give you REAL food one day."

Isn't she a beauty?

Ava has some good genes!

Her happy place!

Sandy toes!! 

Elle loved jumping the waves with Daddy.

Lifeguards on duty!

Their first fight . . . Ava did not want {another} open mouth kiss and Elle got her feelings hurt!

Practicing Papa Knotts #1 trick....a Knotts tradition!

Sweet Ava Lou!

More Kisses

So proud!

"She didn't cry this time, Mama"

On Friday, we ate at the most perfect restaurant in Orange Beach.

"The Gulf" has been written up in Coastal Living & Southern Living many times - and now we know why! 

GORGEOUS views, beachy decor, and food served out of shipping crates.

And then there were these....

the most delicious blueberry mojito EVER!

What a perfect night for Elle's first beach walk!

The Mohawk glowing in the sunset!

{Baby Elle trademark}

So intently listening to Aunt Belle explain how to be gentle.

"Good talk, girls!"

 Cousin photo shoots!

Yes you are incredible, my little love!

Fairhope, your'e gorgeous!

Officially summertime in our book....bathing suits and sandy toes!

Elle wanted crawfish SO badly!

She settled for Mum-Mum instead ;)

The best weekend with the best friends!

We love y'all!!!

Here's to many more cousin trips!!