Sonnek Family Vacation at Bay Lake

We all know Sophia LOVES the water, but as you'll see in the following pictures, the Sonnek family vacation meant much more to her than just playtime in the water.

First and foremost, this year's vacation was quality "G'amma" time. Although Grandma was busy dividing her time between all five grandchildren, Sophia managed to sneak plenty of squeezes and laughs all to herself.

Vacation was also quality time with Papi, as Mami didn't join in on the fun until mid-way through the week. No one brings out Sophia's awe and sense of adventure quite like her Papi.

Speaking of adventure, these two girls are loving their prime seats on the pontoon as they sing, "Mister Sun."

Out in the warmth of the summer sun, Sophia enjoyed her first quiet canoe ride with Mami, Papi, and Mocha.

Only to be followed by her first paddleboat ride with Mamá.

There was plenty of rough-housing time in the water with Cousin Braden, Uncle T, and Papá.

With the playground conveniently located outside our cabin's backdoor, Sophia was able to hone her climbing, sliding, and swinging skills. Here she's enjoying the double boat swing with Allie.

She helped Grandma celebrate her birthday with a "not-so-surprise" cake.

(I must note here that Sophia has since become absolutely obsessed with singing Happy Birthday. Between Papi's, Grandma's, and her pal, Isai's, birthdays, Sophia is definitely geared up for her own birthday in less than two weeks. We spend a good portion of each day singing Happy Birthday to anyone or anything we can think of.)

While all the hustle and bustle of activity was great, I think Sophia's favorite part of vacation was simply being with the people she loves. Baby Colton definitely received the bulk of her cuddles.

Gee, do you think she'd like a baby brother or sister of her own? We can tell that she will be a doting big sister when the time comes :)

Thankfully vacation came to a close not with tears at having to say good-bye, but rather with hugs and "See you soon"s.

The week together has left a lasting love for and bond with her extended family in Sophia's heart. Not a day passes without her talking about at least one, if not all, of the Sonneks (or the Proehls for that matter). She loves you all!

And for me, this vacation served as yet another reminder of how blessed we are to have this compassionate little girl in our family.