Thankful for Heaven

As I mentioned in my previous post, Mr. A confused Heaven and Hilton Head an awful lot. The morning we were packing up to leave for Hilton Head he was talking to DH's parents and said, "Nana & Papa, I go Heaven tonight." I admit I was a bit concerned that he knew something I didn't.

So, with an extra special prayer in our hearts as we embarked on our 12+/2 day driving journey to Hilton Head, off we went. Fortunately, Mr. A was just a bit confused. What he really meant each time he said "Heaven" was Hilton Head. And, he was kind of right.

Hilton Head has always been a special place for me. Growing up I visited my grandparents there, vacationed there, and then took full advantage of the home my parents once owned there. I have tried to share the love with my DH and my Mr. A. I think they've caught it and have developed their own little love affairs with that island.

Our equation for the week: Beach + ocean + people we love = Heaven

Here's what we were thankful for:

Miniature golfing - speed/toddler style - now I know why they don't charge for anyone under 4 - they don't stay on the course long enough to get their money's worth

Biking on the beach

Ice cream with the Salty Dog

A quite tasty Thanksgiving meal at the Old Folks Home that we didn't have to cook, clean up from, or even set the table for

Running on the beach - rain or shine - my favorite route - and the last day running with Coldplay cheering me on - they're so nice like that

Walking on the beach with Miss M in the Baby Bjorn (the only peep she made in our hour-long walk was the smacking of her lips tasting that yummy salty air)

Digging sandcastles on the beach

Swimming in the ocean (the crazy ones - Uncle C. and Mr. A)

Watching the dolphins play around in the ocean with one another

Seeing alligators sunning themselves on the shores of the lagoon

Black Friday shopping at the Outlets at Midnight with my sisters (I really did like our divide, conquer, take turns standing in line method so as to maximize time and money)

Black Friday online shopping later in the day (3 computers, 3 stools at the counter, 3 bargain shoppers)

Wii tournaments - for adults and kids alike

Hot tubbing

Napping

Playing at the park in Harbor Town

Delicious food at San Miguel's and Hudson's

Reading books

Cousins playing

Madagascar 2 with Grandpa - the secret - a ubiquitous supply of popcorn and treats

Big Boy Golfing

Sweater shopping for the boys (not on Black Friday - wimps)

I don't think there was one thing left undone. We even managed to eat a hearty amount in there. The kids had so much fun together and the house was beautiful and spacious.

And one other note: DH and I have contemplated setting up Miss M's pack 'n play in our dark walk-in closet since she seems to sleep so well in those. She slept LIKE A ROCK while we were there - in her pack 'n play, in a dark walk-in closet. Such a gem.

We'll be coming back soon, Heaven, I mean Hilton Head. Save us a brick red rocker in Harbor Town. You know, the ones right next to the Lighthouse. Hopefully we won't be too long.