Outer Banks Trip & Reunion with Rus!

Chris and I arrived at the OBX around 2ish on Friday. Our first stop was at Nett and Mike's house to pick up Russell. We visited a while and headed to our motel. After checking in and unpacking the car we headed out to get a bite to eat and then went to the Outer Banks Music Showcase. Russell enjoyed it but I wouldn't want to go back again. It was a nice enough show but not quite what Chris and I expected. I've been to the shows in Myrtle Beach and there is no comparison.

The next day Russell and I went to the pool for a while and then we all headed to the beach for a few hours.

There were a lot of waves and Russell and Chris were in the water just a bit past the shore line. This wave got them good!

Notice the bird landing in front of Chris. There was one bird the "fussed" at all the other birds when they woul try to land. He didn't want any of them in on his territory.

We went out to eat Saturday night with Mike, Nett and Cal and another couple (friends of Mike/Nett). We had a late meal at Black Pelican and it was good, as usual.

On Sunday we were planning on going on a Pirate Expedition in Manteo but when I called at 9AM that morning to book an afternoon adventure I discovered they didn't have anything available until 5PM on Monday. We didn't make it for that trip and decided to go to one of the putt putt courses. We visited the one just before Tanger Outlet Mall which was a Pirate themed one and Russell dressed for the occasion. We had a good time. (Chris won the game!)

]

This picture is of Russell about half way through the course.

More shots of Russell on the course.

We took a walk on the beach Sunday about sunset. Russell would not smile! I wish he would have! I guess he was down because it was our last day at the beach.

This is a fuse bead creation made by Russell, to resemble Granny. He did a great job I think!

We got back home about 2ish on Monday. The time went by tooo quickly. Maggie was glad to see us and Dale did an excellent job of looking after her and our fish while we were away. The cat warmed up to Dale too!

I had my stress test today and was to have another test tomorrow. Martha Jefferson Hospital called me this afternoon to say that the doctor (cardiologist) was able to see all he needed with this test and I wouldn't have to come in for my second appointment. Now I have to wait for my PCP to call me with the results. Hopefully that will be in a few days. Glad I don't have to have the 2nd test but wish I knew whether not having to go a 2nd time is good or bad. The technician that called me couldn't give me any further information.

Russell is at the OBX with Nett and Mike!

I left OBX around 3:15 today after having lunch with Nett, Mike, Gary, Judy, Cal and Russell at Kill Devils Grill. Lunch was good.

I got back home right around 9PM.

I fell like I have left a part of me back there. It's such a different feeling than when he's at his Dad's house. He is only a 20 minute drive from the house if I need him for anything or if he's sick or something.

Since time usually goes by fast I'm hoping that this week will be no exception and Friday will be here in no time at all. That's when Chris and I will go back down to pick him up and stay through Sunday night, heading back on Monday.

I talked to him tonight and they had been to the beach. Russell had been in the ocean for about an hour. He said he had walked for a mile! They had picked up a few movies and he was watching those. He has looked forward to this visit with Cal, Mike and Nett.

I'm glad I came back today - it'll give me tomorrow to rest before returning to work on Monday. I only have to work for three days. I'll be off Thursday to prep for our trip on Friday to OBX to see Nett and all and pick up Rus! I have an appointment on Thursday to have Maggie clipped. I know she is bound to feel better once all of that fur is gone! We estimate she must be close to 20 years old! She is showing her age but most of the time she bounces around like a puppy.

Russell Headed to OBX tomorrow!

Russell will be headed to Kitty Hawk tomorrow to spend some time with Mike, Nett and Cal. He is looking forward to seeing them and playing with Cal. We hope to leave around 7AM tomorrow.

Chris and I will head back down that way next Friday to pick up Russell from Nett's and spend 4 days/3 nights in the OBX before school starts. We'll be back on Monday 8/25th.

School orientation is 8/25 at 7PM.

I experienced some chest pains earlier in the week and went to the doctor to be checked out. I have a stress test scheduled for 8:30 AM on 8/26 at MJH. I would appreciate your prayers. I'm not really worried about the stress test. No need to worry and besides - the Lord will take me through whatever comes my way.

Cal's Nellysford BIrthday Party 8/9

Cal celebrated his birthday in Nellysford on Saturday 8/9. He was showered with many wonderful gifts and had a good time.

He loved his ice cream cone and was looking at the camera through the corner of his eye.

Colton was there too. He was six months old on the 9th. His 1 year birthday will be here before we know it. He is always full of smiles every time I see him.

Lauren's Shower on 8/9

I went to Lauren's shower which was held at her aunt's home in Scottsville. It was a very nice brunch shower and everyone there seemed to have a good time.

Best Wishes to Lauren and Bruce. Not much longer now till the BIG DAY!

Happy 1st Birthday Cal!

Happy Birthday to you Callum Michael! Hope you have a great day!

Sorry we can't be there so take plenty of pictures! Love you!