On Holiday

Well, we made it to the beach. I was starting to wonder if it would really happen, but the 9-hour drive was so worth it. A week isn't nearly long enough, but the weather was wonderful, and the Outer Banks a peaceful respite.

To make the drive more enjoyable, we split the trip and stopped off in Williamsburg, Va., where

I booked tickets to Busch Gardens. It was hotter than the pits of hell that day.

The place is interesting enough, but I'm afraid I overestimated Grace's enthusiam for fast or high-elevation rides. I couldn't even get her on the water flume, which I would have not minded escorting her on, despite my fear of heights and general chicken tendencies.

Oh well. At least it wore the girls out so much, they slept well (before we even got to the hotel).

The next morning, we headed to Rodanthe, where my parents and brother Jim met us for a week of relaxation (most of the time).

I think it's a good bonding experience for my parents and Uncle Jim to live in the same house with the girls -- plus, I figure it makes them appreciate how peaceful their own lives are.....















One day we headed to Ocracoke Island, which is accessible only by ferry. There we rented bicyles and rode all around the little island. Grace had a blast, and Eva even managed a nap.

Back at the house, I took every chance I could get to simply sit and enjoy the surf. And yes, I wore plenty of sunscreen....









We also took many walks.

























The day we left, Grace and I rose before dawn to catch the sunrise, something Grace had not yet experienced. That's the full moon behind her..

There was the long car ride back, but the portable DVD player helped.