North Carolina

We had a great time visiting with friends in Jacksonville, NC. We have been friends with the Dubois Family since way back when! Liz and I went to school and church together starting in FIRST grade and have been the best of friends since. We went to elementary, junior and high school together and the rest is history- our history together!

Bob came into the picture in high school just a bit after Paul and I got together. Unfortunately that is WAY BACK WHEN now too!

It has been great watching their boys grow up and visiting almost all the places that they have been stationed at in the Marines. The two we missed out on were Okinawa, Japan and Oahu, Hawaii. Otherwise we have been able to go to Marine Corp. balls, watch each others children grow up and vacation with each other. Their boys Craig (15) and Kyle (20) are awesome! I really hope that our children are as well mannered, kind and fun to hang out with when they get older. Alyssa and Alexander love to hang out with the "big boys" and thankfully the big boys don't mind and alter their TV watching or video game playing in order to make it more appropriate for the little ones.

While visiting we went to the beach or swimming at their friends pool everyday but one. We played Frisbee golf, Bob took the kids out on the ATVs, to the aquarium, putt putt golf and hung out. Paul and Kyle have this long standing competition on who is going to kick booty on the course and claim the title of best golfer. This year Paul had to give up his "gold jacket" (white was the only color we had) to Kyle! I do believe it was the themed golf attire which helped Kyle win the game!

The "handing" over of the title jacket

Not too many almost 16 year olds want to hang with the family!

The best part about the whole trip is getting to catch up on life- new and old- and comfortably hanging out. It is always a great relaxing time!

1. forever friends

2. great kids

3. the beach!