Playing catch-up :: OBX 2011

So I've been really bad about blogging.  I think about it; I just haven't done it.  I imagine it's because the next chronological event is our beach vacation.  It was a wonderful week full of lots of fun with my side of the family.  And honestly, I think I'm a little overwhelmed trying to write about a whole week in one little post.  So let's do a real quick summary and hope it takes care of my recent writer's block.  :)  For the whole story in pictures, check out my picasa.  Between photos and captions, that's going to be the best place to see the whole trip!

We spent most of our time on the beach.  We had a wonderful house that was maybe fifty yards from the water.  It was great to be able to walk to the beach, not have to put dirty wet kids in the car, run back for bathroom breaks, and then when we were down for the day throw them in the outdoor shower.  Ryan and Abby loved the sand and the water.  They had a blast building sandcastles, riding the boogie board, digging holes, lounging in the chairs, and basking in tons of attention! 

We ventured out a few times of course: putt-putt golfing (yes, when a 3 and 1 year old are involved, it's as crazy as you'd guess it'd be!), a yummy dinner at Mulligan's, shopping (Ryan picked out a can coozie over all the other junk in the huge souvenior store, silly kid!), walking around downtown Roanoke Island.  The highlight was a surprise pontoon boat ride on Friday afternoon.  We celebrated Dad's 60th birthday and Uncle Brian's 30th.  We watched dozens of dolphins about twenty yards from us, ate cookie cake, jumped in the bay for a quick swim, and even tried to sink the boat by leaving the ladder down and all sitting up front.  Oops :).  We also witnessed the relocation of sea turtle nest.  They are restoring the beach in Nags Head, so they move any eggs to safety.  It was a very interesting process, the volunteers were super nice, and they even let Ryan "help" at the new nest site. 

Thanks to Mom and Dad for a great vacation and the perfect beach house.  We enjoyed spending time with you guys and of course with Aunt Lolly and Uncle Brian too.  Still can't believe how fast the week went! 

And of course, no post would be complete without a picture...