So Long Summer............

This was a really nice summer.....it went by totally too quickly, but we have lots of happy memories to cherish.
We spent this last glorious weekend with our dear friends, and wonderful family members! Saturday, we went to our friends house for a BBQ and caught up. It's been way too long since we've gotten together. The kids all had a ball, and loved seeing each other again, as did us grown ups!


We spent Sunday at our "10th annual Family Picnic" - loads of fun at the beach, with
75+ family members and friends! Perfect weather to boot!

Besides beach volley ball, tug of war, horseshoes, frisbee, etc.....it's become a tradition to have a "friendly" softball game every year. While many watch from the sidelines, those of us brave enough decide to get out on the field and play. Usually they give the kids a turn, pitch to them til they hit, let them run the bases etc..... Every year I've told Ryan and Kelsey that they were too little to play. This year however, I told Ryan that it was his turn up to bat. Man, how I wish I had my video camera with me. All of these people know Ryan, but also "baby" him somewhat since he's the only "handicapped" one of the lot. Anyway, he grabs a bat, goes to home plate, and a cousin starts to help him hold the bat. I immediately yell from the dug out....."He doesn't need help, he can do it himself"! Pitch one, strike......Pitch two, strike. Pitch three, line drive right down the center. The crowd starts doing the wave.....Seriously!

Ryan rounds first and second with Mommy cheering on the loudest. It was probably a double for all intents and purposes, but HELL YEAH! everyone was so surprised (not me so much!) that his double turned into a home run. Now granted they were throwing the ball to each base, and trying to get him out, but damn, this kid could run. IT WAS INCREDIBLE! And, enlightening I think to everyone there who thought, "Oh lets give this poor kid a turn at bat". He's so amazing! My Ryan Rocks! :)



Today we spent one last quiet day at the beach. This particular park not only has the ocean, but a cool kiddie spray pool, and a really neat playground. Again the weather was picture perfect in the 80's. Here's some shots from our day (and a quick video)








Anyway, to end the summer, and this post, I'd like to share one of this summers favorite memories - Living large, and lots of love in the OBX!


Happy Fall Everyone! Here's hoping it's a good one! :)