Road trip with Granddaddy Eddie

While in Columbia this summer, Granddaddy Eddie took us to Engelhard one day to pick up some Mattamuskeet onions. The kids weren't exactly sure what to think of this trip but enjoyed every single minute of it.

They loved riding in Granddaddy Eddie's new truck.

We had not even got out of Columbia when we had to slow down for deer.

 

 

The kids were amazed at the antiques in the general store. I was amazed they still let people smoke in the store!

A rare treat and a first for a couple of them, Pepsi in a glass bottle. They loved it!

We took a slight detour on the way home, a ride through Gum Neck.

  And one of the biggest bears I believe I've ever seen.

 

Outdoor fun, Columbia style

It's always a big change for the kids during our trips to NC. At home during the summer they are use to the pool and beach and although they have those things in NC, they just aren't the same as home. They often find other things to entertain them while visiting.

One of the first things they usually do, find locust shells. Yes we have them in Florida as well, but if it keeps them entertained they can hunt all day long.

  Tucker spotted something in the field across the street and quickly borrowed binoculars for a better look.

Sailor was determined to have a butterfly land on her. It took awhile but her patience finally paid off.

  And one of my favorites, watching the hummingbirds.

Hog Hunting

Tucker had the opportunity to participate in a hog hunt for local youth through our local Ducks Unlimited chapter. He and Hank spent a weekend in Alabama in June and although they came home empty handed, I think they both enjoyed the trip.

Apparently pizza helps you prepare to hunt.

They got to practice some shooting and Tucker came home asking for a new gun (which he won't be getting).

 

They also got to learn about dog training and retrieving. This "gun" shoots the decoy for the dog to retrieve.

Time to hunt. 

Their view from the blind.

After having to get up at 3:30 in the morning to hunt and not seeing anything, a nap is in order. They never saw any hogs but it was an educational trip and Tucker seemed to enjoy it. 

Putt Putt Golf

While Hanks parents were here for a visit, we went to the mall one day for some indoor putt putt. The obvious advantage is that you can play anytime regardless of the weather and summer in Florida tends to get quite hot. Cutter was especially thrilled as he'd been wanting to give this place a try. We also had the whole place to ourselves for a bit.

We couldn't talk Granddaddy Eddie into playing but Cutter made sure he didn't get bored.

  Everyone had a good time and we were so thankful for a fun family day.

Surfer Girl

I should have known as much as Sailor loves the water and her willingness to try anything that it wouldn't be long before she would want to give surfing a try. We were very fortunate that her friend Morgan not only had a board but had taken some surfing lessons. The two of them will be enjoying a few days of surf camp together next week, a perfect ending to their summer break.

A little sand sculpting to start the day.

Getting some lessons before hitting the water.

On this day she did manage to get up one time but I didn't manage to record it.

 

 So for her birthday she got her very own surfboard. It might not be big or fancy but she was thrilled.

Finally able to take her own board out. The June grass was awful on this particular day but it didn't slow her down one bit.

Little hard to tell but not only did she get up, I recorded it.