OBX

This past week we had the wonderful opportunity to stay at a gorgeous house (given to our family) in the Outer Banks of NC. It was one of the most relaxing trips we have ever taken, besides going to my sisters in PA where it's just quiet all the time.

I am struggling to find words to sum up the trip and how blessed we were to have had this chance, especially because my father-in-law continues to be very tired and weak from his cancer.

The kids had a blast doing everything under the sun... Eli woke up and went straight out to the canal that the house backed up to, and started fishing. Lilly and Zach, as soon as they were done with breakfast were in their bathing suits and in the pool. During this vacation, Lilly mastered swimming without floats... and is officially a fish (as I used to be called when her age). She was going under the water, and even doing somersaults under the water. She has truly come a long way since the beginning of this summer! Zach, well he tried to swim without the floats... and did alright... he still needs some assistance, but before you know it he's going to be swimming!

The kids played Uno a lot, slap jack, colored, put puzzles together... we went to the beach not quite every day (that was due to the surf being tumultuous while we were there). The kids made so many memories during this visit... ones that will last a lifetime!

When we were at the beach Eli was either boogie boarding or searching for sand crabs.

Lilly dipped her toes in, got in all the way with daddy holding her, and did a lot of shell searching!
Zach well after he tumbled over from the waves being so rough he just stayed on the sand burrying daddy or sitting in the chair. He did get a bit more brave the last night when we went to the beach... and ran into and out of the surf... still only going in up to his ankles (although his whole body got wet because the surf seemed to be very angry).

Enjoying da beach and each other!

Dad did come out one night with us to make smores... that was a lot of fun as well. The kids loved it, although the gluten free way is doing it with rice cakes... Lilly and Zach didn't seem to mind... Eli on the other hand was not too into the rice cakes. I do have to say that I liked the crunch and also the sweet and salty together!

Just before we started smoring! one of my favorite pictures!

Aunt Sandy came with us to the beach the first day... and that was a ton of fun... she sat in her chair and read some while the kids did their thang... but had a moment to be silly with her little brother! More memories to share for a lifetime.
One day we went to the aquarium... and that was a lot of fun... seeing all the sharks, alligators, sea otters, turtles, fish and even some seahorses... this we did without dad, he was too tired that day.

Another day before we went to the wright brothers memorial... Daddy took the kids up Jockies Ridge sand dunes... they had a blast... so cute to see!

The Wright Brothers Memorial State Park... Family Photo!

We had the opportunity to read together before every meal out of a small devotional book Scott and I had purchased for dad... that was really nice to share with the whole family. That was the largest chunk of time we would spend with dad, was during dinner time. It seemed to have been the best part of the day for him, after he had his naps and such during the day.

Some of the most memorable times where the ones that Scott and I got to watch happen. The kids always latch on to Aunt Sandy when she is around, she truly has a way with the children. Her presence alone captivates them... and she becomes so animated with them it is a beautiful scene to sit back and watch. Lilly in particular just adores Aunt Sandy... they were roommates all week, the both have the same color hair... and both curly (which Lilly finds very amusing).

Us ladies would sit in the breakfast nook just about every night and share together. That was my favorite time, I love to hear about family stories and memories they all have of when they were younger. This is the time I cherish because this is where women can connect with each other on a deeper level. Thank to you Aunt Sandy and to you Mom for sharing with me... I love you both dearly and look forward to more nook times together!

All in all we were blessed beyond words... and we are still trying to take it all in.

To Bob and Linda,

Thank doesn't even come close to what needs to be said. You allowed us to use your place to make forever memories, to share sweet times together as a family, and to draw closer to one another. To this I must share my most heartfelt thanks, may the Lord grant you blessings beyond comprehension, peace beyond your imagination, and love that only HE can give!