Beach Retreat 2011

Our annual trip with our small group family was in Topsail (pronounced Top'sl) North Carolina. This was the Ring's second time in Tops'l, as we visited my sister in law, Meghan, who was stationed in Jacksonville with her family. There's not much to do in this beach town, but we still managed to find some fun.

The boys each got some bonding time
with their dad. Caelan flies his first kite.

Tristan's first time touching the ocean.

Two engineers building a water tunnel.

Unfortunately, it was cloudy and rainy a lot of the days, but when there was a window to go out and do stuff, we took it. One morning, we went to a petting zoo.

And when the skies cleared,
we went outside before the clouds came out again.

Tristan's first time
on a swing.

The trip was very relaxing. We ate fabulous meals every night, and during the days, some watched TV on one of there 6 flatscreens, others napped every afternoon (me!), and others worked. I thought for sure the boys might get bored inside, but they always found something to do.

Mr. Paul graciously provided ipad
and iphone entertainment for Caelan.

Playdoh salamanders, anyone?

Caelan was so affectionate with Anna and Shelby,
giving them kisses as much as he could.

One of the nights, we all watched an Andy Stanley video, then the guys went to a steak dinner, and played pool and poker most of the night. While they were away, the ladies talked about them over a big pan of Lasagna and some wine. This trip was about continuing to make lasting memories. I think we did just that!

Sane

Nuts

Sweet kids photo. Oh no! Anna eats it.
Shelby is having none of it and all my boys
are looking everywhere but at the camera.

I couldn't get one photo of Tristan looking up.

That's alright, I can still make a
photo work even they don't cooperate.
It's fun to see my three sons....

Sweet memories.
Even the 8 hour drive on
the way back wasn't that bad.


We stopped at this Thai restaurant
where you take off your shoes
and eat while laying on pillows.


Too fun! Looking forward to next year.