Corolla, North Carolina

This summer we did a big family trip in Corolla, NC in the Outer Banks. Mom was so gracious to rent a beach house for us all and it was so nice! The house and location were beautiful. It honestly was the best few days we loved every bit of it. 

Our walk to the beach.

We got there a day before the Strattons so we went to check out the beach that evening. 

We couldn't get Bonnie out of the water.

Morning snuggles

We had a beautiful beach morning that day. 

We spent the afternoon in the pool at the house. 

Family dinners

Uncle Chris and Rosie let Riser help flip pancakes.

Bonnie, the animal lover.

All the kids loved boogie boarding. Bonnie discovered it this year and wanted to be in the water all day.

Riser is not as enthusiastic about the water, but liked being held and telling me where to go.

The water temperature was so nice! And we had a great little sand bar near us.

I wish I could find the picture of me and the yellow boogie board around this age.

One evening Jesse and Rachel came to visit with their nephew. 

They were a big help to us finishing the puzzle.

Ice cream!

The house also had a movie theater that the kids loved. Riser is still talking about that and the bunk beds they got to sleep in with Ben and Rosie.

It was a fantastic trip with so many new memories made! Thank you mom!

Benny's parents visit

We had a wonderful rest of our visit with Benny's parents. They stayed until New Year's eve so we had lots of time to play with the kids' new toys, and Betty brought some fun crafts and activities to keep us busy as well.

The day after Christmas we all made wontons which was a big hit. They turned out delicious and everyone enjoyed helping out. Although Riser was burnt out after about two.

Bonnie even got to teach Benny after all her experience at Jesse's house this fall.

We also went to see the lantern festival at Jamestown settlement. There were some very impressive lanterns! Definitely a fun new experience.

One night I was able to sneak away to do game night with our side of the family.

The kids got super hero capes for Christmas.

During Riser's naps, Baga and Bonnie would work on one of her lego sets together.

We went to Virginia Living Museum one day.

Naps were had by all (except Bonnie).

We went to the Jamestown Glasshouse, a favorite of Betty's. She never goes home empty handed. This year she got some glass blown snowmen for her and her sisters.

We played lots of Yahtzee.

Their last night also happened to be their anniversary so we all went out to Food for Thought to celebrate. 

We went for a short walk in CW afterward to see it at night. 

We had a great time with them and are so glad they are able to travel again now!