Pawleys Island

We went on the annual Gainer family trip to Pawleys Island, SC last month.  It was a bittersweet trip because before the vacation even started, we said goodbye to our dear grandma, "Mama," Betty Jean Gainer.  Mama passed away as we were driving up to Pawleys, so it was a very emotional week for our family.  Thankfully, we were all together, and we were able to laugh and cry, and celebrate Mama's life.  

Mama, Dad and Uncle David

It was a busy week for my parents, aunts and uncles, having to handle all the details for Mama, and pack-up her condo.  We did manage to have a lot of fun at the beach, too.  Unfortunately, we didn't take many pictures!

The boys loved spending time with their cousin, Bennie!  Cohen is the best helper, and he was always making sure Bennie was happy and taken care of.

 Of course, the boys loved a week of non-stop play with Papa!

 Grady is now 11 years old, and still loves the beach

Cohen built some amazing Angry Bird castles.  He says he either wants to be a professional golfer or architect when he grows up.

Time on the creek

 Morning clouds over the ocean

The Gray Man is an old legend on the island.  Cohen was very intrigued by the story, and he left cookies outside for the Gray Man every night.

 I caught this little crab crossing the street to get back to the creek

 Rocking with Cohen

Although, the trip had some sad moments, it was filled with a lot of happy times too.  Pawleys Island will always be part of our lives.  Time passes, and things change, but we look forward to many more fun years spent in such a special place that means so much to our family.

I think this picture was taken in 1994 or 1995.  From left to right:  Uncle David, Lindsay, Andy, Aunt Lynn, Martha, Laura, Mike, me, Uncle Brock, Robbie, Kelly, Aunt Marie, Papa and Mama.