Remember When?

Does this house look familiar, anyone?

The beaches of the Outer Banks in North Carolina have always been a relaxing haven to our family over the years, and this past week, our family was once again reminded of how much we love it as a vacation spot. In fact, we had the ultimate, deja-vu experience. This year’s rental home was literally twenty steps around the corner from the two homes the entire Jansen clan stayed in 15 years ago for our “Jansen Family Reunion” in 1993 (pictured above). That’s right. The same tennis courts across the street, the same boardwalk, the same section “D” of Ocean Sands in Corolla.

So, that certainly set a “sentimental” tone for the week.

It was also a great week because we had fabulous weather: 75-80 degrees every day, warm water, great waves, and low humidity. Except for Wednesday’s afternoon thunderstorm, the sun was out shining every day.

And what would vacation be without LOTS of sporting activities? Tennis, bike rides, long walks, running on the beach, yoga videos, push-ups, sit-ups, baseball, “Corn” (bean-bag game), and best of all, SURFING. Yep, we all learned. Jon and Jenni Smith and their 3-year old, Carson, joined us for the week, and Jon brought along his surfboard in hopes of catching some great waves (which he did). Here’s a shot of “Gigi” giving it a try:

I must say, surfing is addicting. I got up about 5 times total, but the waves got pretty rough and big later in the week, so I couldn’t do it. Sadly, Jon’s beloved surfboard broke on the last day, as it snapped under the pressure of a crashing wave.

Along with some fun in the sun, we also hit up a card game called “Hand and Foot” till 1 in the morning on Friday night:

(“W” stands for “Winner”….can I tell I am just a bit excited? 1am will do that to you, I guess.)

Although movies, great food, and books kept us entertained for the most part, who really needs any of that when you have Carson Smith? This precious boy was such a joy to our crew. He simply adores the beach, and all his day-time energy was exuded into building castles, learning how to play baseball, and running around in the sand. Evenings brought fireworks, the hot-tub, and hanging out with his Jansen friends.

Hammock time is always nice, too.

And so, the week passed quickly but pleasantly, but before the boys left early on Saturday morning to go home and mow lawns, we managed to have a nice Jansen dinner out at “Roadside” Grill, where we enjoyed incredible mojito’s and fresh fish.  And, of course, get a few group shots.

It was a good week. I miss it already.