Most of our time on vacation this year was spent relaxing on Rebecca’s local beach, which was just fine with us.  But we did get out and do a little bit of exploring around the area, too – because why not?

First stop was the boardwalk on the main beach.  It was a lot more crowded and touristy than Rebecca’s peaceful cove.  We were glad we saw it, and equally glad to be doing our splashing elsewhere.

Tuesday was a bit more gloomy, weather-wise, which meant it was a perfect day to visit the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center!  Peanut, as long-time readers know, is a pinniped enthusiast, and going to the aquarium is one of her favorite things to do.  We were happy to add the Virginia Aquarium to her list of aquariums visited (growing now – she’s also been to the Aquarium of Niagara and to the Denver Aquarium!).

They had one of those cool tunnels that you can walk through and see the fish swimming all around you – my favorite!  The Denver Aquarium had one of these, too.

Someone was feeling a bit clingy…

But she perked up eventually and enjoyed the cool exhibits, like a tidal pool…

And an actual, legit wetlands habitat!  We strolled over the boardwalk and checked out the “Sebastians” in the water below.

We also found a treehouse blind and, naturally, climbed up to have a better look.

 

Nugget and Daddy were waiting for us when we got back down, and we continued on through the adventure park (they had ziplining and I soooooooo wanted to try it! one of these days…) on to the second building in the aquarium center, where we met some furry friends…

Otters!  They’re so adorable.  Steve compared them to rats and ruined them forever for me.  Thanks a lot.

A few days later, on a clearer day, we headed over to the Cape Henry Light to do a little sightseeing.  It was actually our third attempt at seeing the lighthouses at Cape Henry.  The lighthouses are on a military base, so security is tight.  The first day, we were turned around because we’d left our proof of car insurance at home.  The second time, we were turned around because we came fifteen minutes before closing, which is evidently too late.  The third time was the charm and we made it to the lighthouses.

So gorgeous!  I love lighthouses and was delighted to have two more to add to my personal collection of visits.

Peanut was also happy to see the lighthouses…

Maybe a little too happy?  Never too happy, you guys.

She performed a song and dance routine dedicated to the lighthouses.

And there was general prettiness.

Some windy seashore cuddles.

And lots of time spent doing this.  We could have looked out at that gorgeous blue water forever.

Next week, we’re spending more days on the beach and soaking up time with friends we don’t see often enough.  Check back!