Life: Top Sail, NC

Sept. 8-12, 2010

Since my parents have moved to NC in June, I had yet to make the trip "down south." I decided I would go following a 12 hour shift of working and stay a couple of days. John was unable to take off work unfortunately, so my grandmother decided she would tag along. (In all actuality, John basically forced her to come so I would have someone to keep me awake).

My grandma, AJ, and I left on Wednesday around 10:30pm for the 8 hour road trip South. We stopped only once to stretch our legs and get a $1 cheeseburger from McDonalds. (they are not as good at 1AM as they are for lunch). AJ didn't budge the whole ride until we were about 5 miles from my parents place. My grandma kept me awake as I rode the rubble strips, hearing about how she met my grandfather, accidents my aunts had as kids, etc.

We finally made it to NC around 6am and headed right to bed. Thankfully, my parents took AJ and we were able to sleep until 9. Then, off to the beach for a fun filled 1st day!

AJ loved the beach. He fell asleep in a little sunhut I borrowed from a friend and he played in the mini pools created by the ocean. The water was crystal clear! We were out about 100 yards, up only to our waists, and we were still able to see our feet. It was very cool as schools of fish swam all around us too.

One night, we sat along the beach and went fishing. I caught 3 little fish, well actually, I caught 2. One just happened to flop up on the beach following my fishing line as I reeled it in.

My dad and AJ in their matching fishing hats :)

A beautifully created "chapel" which laid under the fishing pier. It was so cool when the waves splashed along the sides.

Aj and my mom. He is not too happy in this picture. This was one of our last days at the beach and he was starting to get cranky. It was fun, and interesting, watching my parents try to capture and copy AJ's footprint in the sand. The end product got pretty cool. Their first souvenir for their home.

My grandma and I at dinner. AJ LOVED chewing on hard rolls; I think it helped his gums and teething.

Playing "Aces Away."

Visiting the Sea Turtle Hospital. (actually a 2 car garage). It is a volunteer run hospital where turtles are rescued following boating accidents, cruel humans, etc. There were a total of 23 turtles there this day, all of which were in large swimming pools. It was amazing to hear what the people are doing for these turtles in order to get them back in the water. Did you ever think you'd hear of turtle physical therapy or a swim test? Well, believe it! My little "hatchling" LOVED the turtles! Grandma even bought him a tee-shirt and stuffed animal! And he got to meet Jean Beasley, founder of the hospital.