My "Day Off"

Mother's Day 2010: As the day was beginning I was greeted with smiles, hugs and hand-made items, all of which I gladly received. I don't require much. Although, Dale's special effort to get me some dark chocolate sea salt caramels didn't hurt, I'll admit! :) Hannah also sweetly informed me that since it was Mother's Day I didn't have to do anything. She was giving me the day off! Is that allowed or even possible? Not sure about that one.

But, I will say, my "day off" was one of the best days I've had in awhile. It started with a great time at church. The time of fellowship, worship and being in the Word was sweet. Afterward, we grabbed some Jersey Mike's subs and headed to Richmond Beach, a local spot to which we had not yet ventured. And God blessed us with one of the most beautiful days we've had so far this year - blue skies, bright sun, mid-60's.

As we drove with windows down, I was so excited as I imagined sinking my toes into the soft, warm sand, and not thinking about anything but playing and relaxing with my family. Compared to the Gulf Coast beaches I grew up around, these beaches have little sand. Although beautiful, the shoreline is rocky. But I was not disappointed. We found a good, soft sandy spot and camped there for several hours. We ate & played to our hearts content. I did get a few moments to sit back & let the sound of the waves lull me to a slight doze, which was so nice. And although the notion of a day "off" sounds inviting, maybe a day on a cruise ship like this...













... I was delighted to respond to Kaitlyn's "Mommy, mommy, come put your feet in the water with me!" One of her favorite spots was at the edge of the icy water with her feet in, throwing rocks or dancing and singing at the top of her lungs. She also willingly accommodated my desire to throw the Frisbee for awhile.

Hannah enjoyed playing in the sand, but spent most of her time at a driftwood "fort" with some "mean" boys whom she convinced to befriend her. I think they initially felt like she was infringing on their turf. But once they realized it would be tough to get rid of her, they let her join in, and before long were taking orders and playing right along with her ideas. She was having a great time! :)

Here are some pictures:














































































































































We stayed so long, we were hungry for dinner by the time we packed up. So we closed out our day at a random pizza place not far from the park. My artichoke, sun-dried tomato, garlic & cheese pizza hit the spot! I was one satisfied Mommy!