2013 Topsail Island Family Gathering

We did it!  We all gathered in a great ole beach side home, "Sandy Toes" for a week of good times.  The weather cooperated, kids traveling with little ones from Utah and Fargo, and two carloads of supplies (special thanks to Eme and Jason) just begin the list of challenges that we faced, but overcame!  Below you can see what I found to be the best pics on my camera. 

 

   

 Willie, Sierra, and Naomi get their feet wet in the big, beautiful ocean that first day!

Who knows what treasure will be found?!

 Reagan didn't make it out that first day, but as evidence by the grin on her face, she loved her time at "Sandy Toes"!

Reagan with her mom.

 Owen:  looking like he actually may try to create something in the sand. 

 Our beach side residence for the week.  Space for all and the ocean blue just steps away to explore!

 The "2 and under" crowd enjoy the beach with parents and Nana.

Naomi's all geared up the legendary, traditional nightwalk.

 William and beach friend, Corb, on the night walk.

 Brothers--can you believe the enthusiasm in their expressions!?

 Roland, David, and William shinin' their lights!

 Both crab and boy have really nice smiles. : )

 

 Emily and Roland share their traditional shrimp "cleanin' the ream".  Emily took those shrimp and prepared a lovely, buttery shrimp pesto for lunch.  Mmmm!

 Matt with his super cute bag baby. : )

 A little down time watchin' videos for Naomi, Owen and Sierra.

 Bein' a sand crab.

 Dancin' with Nana while their parents play in ocean.  Everyone is happy!

 After the traditional crabbing expedition, sweet crab meat is is enjoyed by those who have the patience to find it!

 Jason and Emily share their beach tent.  So luxurious to have a little shade and cool refreshment after playing hard in the sand and sun!

 Good times!  Can't you just hear the waves hit the shore and feel the sunshine on your shoulders?

 Owen and Nana enjoy a quiet moment.

Now its Paw Paw's turn.

Kirsten's havin' sooooooo much fun!


 I hope to see pics that all of the fam took soon.  I'd especially love to see the Hootenanny.  It was unfortunate that my kitchen items didn't make it to the beach.  But we enjoyed a little jar of Saskatoon jam the Fargo Roberts had sent to me to bring to the beach when we got back to K-town.  If there was any question why we'd sing about Saskatoon berries, the deliciousness of those berries made it clear.  I hope to someday share Saskatoon, or sarvice, or service berries with each of you!