Outer Banks

Thursday & Friday

Thursday we got up and got out to the beach mid morning. We loved that this year we had a parking lot just off the dunes that we could drive to and park. made the van very sandy on the way back, but it was so great to not have to lug all the stuff, and the kids a few blocks. They were able to play a lot more and not be quite so overtired. Josh and Lia came out to see us for a bit and we got a few quick family photos. We tried them in the cabana to include Esther. She, was sleeping in her seat and you can hardly see her, and the people in the shade you can hardly see either! :( We're all there though. Gary helped me get the kids back to the house, bathed and fed before he left for the bachelor day. He organized a round of golf, then a cookout back at the beach house the groomsmen were staying at. I hear they had a wonderful time. I got the kids down for a short/early nap and afterwards the kids, myself, my mom and Stephanie all went up north to Corolla. We love TimBuckII! My mom and I had found these Blessing Bowls at Eclectic Treasures the year before. She said that would be a great wedding gift for Josh and Lia. Once I knew I was not going to get them, she decided she would. I hope Josh and Lia love it. We had fun walking around a few stores and we ate at First Light which was delicious. The kids were less than trilled about shopping and I had to lug Esther in her seat because the Stroller had not fit in the van for the trip. I should have just carried Esther in my arms. We didn't stay too long and instead we stopped at the grocery store for ice cream and went home. My mom got the kids their treat and read to them out on the porch. It was so sweet. I love those moments when the grandparents do something special with the kids. I always want to be apart of it, but don't want to interrupt it either. The kids went to bed and we relaxed. I think that was the night we had a total downpour and water actually came into our room! It was a quick storm, but caused a lot of flooding! Maybe it was Wednesday night? I really don't recall... Later in the evening Paula suggested we play Hand and Foot. I LOVE playing cards and so even though I was exhausted and it was late, I played and it was SO much fun! Paul, Sue, Kyle and Deneal joined us. It was so fun to see the Michaels kids interact with each other and their mom. I"m not around very many adult kids and their parents, it was awesome.

Friday was rehearsal/rehearsal dinner day. We were invited to a party at the bridesmaid's house after the dinner so we knew we'd not have time for another trip to the beach for the rest of our trip. Friday morning we packed full! We hit the beach for about an hour and a half. I could hardly bear to tear myself and the kids away. They were having so much fun and it just brings you joy to watch your kids enjoy life, you know? I knew too that once the wedding stuff started, it would be a whirlwind. I wanted to just soak in those moments! WE did leave though because the kids REALLY wanted to hit the pool one last time so we headed back to the house, and the pool which was also a blast. After quick baths and lunch and some packing (I think the kids laid down for an hour but I"m not sure) we hit the road. The rehearsal went well and we got out of there in time to get to Mako Mikes for the dinner. It was delicious. It was such a blessing to get to see Josh and Lia surrounded by SO many friends. I'm always jealous of how popular the two of them seem to be. They truly do have a HUGE group of amazing friends. And they truly are close to, and loved by each and every one. This is a group who loves the Lord, and loves to have fun! It was special to be a part of that. At the party after, even MORE of their amazing friends were there! I know too, they had many friends they were unable to invite due to numbers, and who were unable to attend. I hope they know how truly blessed they are to be surrounded by so much love. To have the love of both family and friends, is an amazing blessing. It makes me miss my far away friends just writing about it!