Vacation....the Texas coast!

Recently, we had the pleasure of spending time on the Texas coast. It's a beautiful place where everything is lovely, especially the sunsets. Which we are accustom to out west, but with Hurricane Alex churning up the Gulf of Mexico, there were some amazing displays in the skies.

Some incredibly generous friends shared their fabulous home with us. To say we were 'wowed' on every level, would be an understatement! Thank you, thank you! God blessed each and everyone of us, right through you.

What is it about the beach? It makes everyone feels so relaxed and comfortable. There is something in the air, the breeze, the sound of water and the trees, that whispers, ' Sit down and take it easy." The elements are simultaneously at work. Their mission? To lull you into a state of peacefulness.

Outdoor living spaces, balconies and porches were a popular 'hang-out' all week. They were the perfect place to sit quietly, drink coffee and visit.

On several occasions, all of us would pull up a chair and get involved in meaningful conversation. It is these moments that I love most. The sharing of hearts and minds. These are the treasures that last long after we return home. The good stuff, that feeds the soul and helps us grow.

The same could be said for family and friends. Spending time together is a gift indeed! Having the opportunity to refresh our relationships and make new memories...priceless!

The first two days, the guys went bay fishing (they wade around, chest deep in water, catching fish and then dragging them around on a stringer behind them....does this sound dangerous to anyone else?

Isn't this a great photo of Beth and 5 month old Emme? What pretty blue eyes!

Anyway, the guys caught a lot of trout and that night we took them to a local restaurant and they grilled, fried and blackened them for us. It was great!

Nate caught the biggest 'catch of the day'!

Who later that night asked her Pops to show her how to fish. Using live shrimp, he caught several trout and let Carter help 'reel' them in. She didn't know quite what to think about the wet wiggly fish and eventually touched one!

Lyndsay, Kimberly and Beth, who go way back (to like, birth) had fun catching up. For several years all three of these girls lived out of the state but much to our delight all have come back home. Thank you ladies! Texas is a prettier place with you!

Though the weather got progressively stormy, we did take a few walks on the beach. You'll be happy to hear we saw no oil. We did however see a lot of seaweed. Overall, it was nice and the waves were 'BIG'! Remember, there was a tropical storm stirring things up!




Like the good little momma she is, Beth took opportunity to photograph Carter playing in the sand.




It was nice to walk in the sand and surf and feel the wind blowing through your hair.

Never mind that everyone was laughing at mine, after we got back in the car.

Again! Do not be alarmed! Do not cancel your beach trips.

We did NOT see any oil on the beach! Only seaweed and people.

So head on down to the Texas coast, where the skies are blue and the water is warm!