Outer Banks NC 2011

My extended family has gone to the Outer Banks almost every other year since I was little. When Jarem and I were engaged I told him that we had to be there even though finances would be tight and we would have to travel from Utah. We went and have never missed since. I think Jarem looks forward to the beach more than I do now. This year we DROVE 24 hours one way with our little family of 5. Notice that there are not any pictures of the road trip. It is something we try not to remember.
This year we had 2 houses and over 50 family members 13 of those under 5. We have morning and nightly devotionals and an evening activity. We trade off preparing meals and cleaning up. There are several tournaments from Pool to Parcheesi taking place any time of day or night. At the end of the week there are awards given and a variety show, this year won by the Richmond boys who performed a synchronized swimming routine in the pool. Jarem says beach week is EFY for adults.
Sofie LOVED the ocean. We didn't see much of her that week. She would ask any aunt, uncle, cousin grandparent or parent she could find to "hold her in the water". While on land you would find her sitting in a beach chair doing her work (coloring).

I was training for a race the following weekend (ran 23 miles that week) so I really appreciated a nap in the sun. Lucy joined me.

Lucy spent most of the time playing in the tent. She was a little bit terrified of the ocean.

King loved the sand!! He would crawl down the dune backwards as if it were stairs.Everyone just sitting around reading/chatting at the beach. Notice Sofie on right. She was coloring.

Jarem got us some paddle boards for the week. Jarem, Tallmadge and Decker spent hours on these boards.

Saucey.

The Blue Canoe

Dad and Lucy playing Parcheesi, a family favorite.

Page, Reagan, Ashely, and me.

Girl cousins: Bethanie, Sarah Rose, Salem, Ashley, Sally, Page, Reagan, Anne, and me.Me and my angelic Grammy.

We will miss you Outer Banks. See you in 2013.