Shack.

Today, we ventured out to Shackelford Banks thanks to our friends Blair and John and their little girl Clara (AND our new friends Bonnie and Joey (Blair and John’s neighbors at the beach) and Jay and his girls Avery and Emma Grace (John’s brother and nieces)).  Anne Louise was really looking forward to a playdate with little Jake (Jay’s four-month old son), but he was not feeling well, so he and his mama (April) stayed behind.  We had a fun boat ride out to the island and had a fabulous set-up on the beach, complete with a huge tent, lots of chairs,  a picnic lunch, and a cooler full of water (and beer . . . ok, ok, and wine).  Anne Louise took TWO naps on the beach in her little pack-and-play.  The water was unbelievable – cool and refreshing and SUPER clear, reminiscent of the Caribbean as Patrick says.  It was the perfect day! 

  Tonight, Anne Louise had a babysitter while Patrick and I had date night.  We had some of the best cocktails ever at our new favorite spot – the Arrendel Room in Morehead City.  Our favorite was their invention – a Strawberry Basil martini.  It was absolutely amazing, and we really enjoyed our time together.