All Systems Go

The final launch for the space shuttle Endeavor (and the penultimate shuttle launch for the space program) was this morning, so the kids and I headed to the beach to watch it.  The sky was a little hazy, so it wasn't the best view we've had of the shuttle, but I was just glad we were able to watch it.  It was originally scheduled for a Friday a few weeks ago while I was at work, so I was happy when the launch was scrubbed and moved to today.

A small crowd had developed on the beach by the time we arrived (20 minutes before launch time).  Will and Anna had fun playing in the sand and Anna made a friend:

And finally, at 08:56, liftoff:

Twenty minutes of buildup resulted in two very excited kiddos:

I am so sad that the shuttle program is ending and I hope that Will remembers seeing all these launches from our backyard and the beach.  I'd love to actually drive down to see the final one...so fingers crossed it falls on a day I don't work! :-)