Nana's Visit

The past week went by so quickly, but we were blessed with two very special visitors; Nana and her friend Vicky.  The kids were overjoyed to have company and loved all the extra attention.  Grace didn't waste any time getting some snuggles in. 

And Gunner was busy exploring all the new toys Nana brought and the toys she didn't know she brought (like her shoes).

Our days were jammed packed with fun and thankfully the kids were happy to oblige.  The weather didn't completely cooperate, but we made the best of it.  And the temperature was perfect, even if it was a little gloomy.  The first day we went shopping for the kids and they were spoiled rotten (new trains for Gunner, new babies for Grace, and we even got some recordable books for Nate to read before he deploys).  We decided that since Nate is going to be gone for Grace's birthday next month, we would do a mock birthday party while Nana was visiting so daddy and Nana could both sing and watch her open presents.  So Monday night we had yummy birthday cake after dinner.

Grace dove right in.

By the time we finished cake and bath, the kids were exhausted, so we decided to wait on presents until the morning.  But the kids enjoyed it just as much the next morning.  Gunner even helped Grace open after awhile. 

Then it was off for another fully loaded day.  We went to Swansboro to see the little shops and have lunch down by the water. It was dizzling but luckily there was a cover overhead. 

Then we headed down to Emerald Isle to take in the beach and pier.  The pier was damaged from the hurricane, but not completely so we were still able to see it.  The beach was pretty empty because of the mist, but we enjoyed it nonetheless.

Vicky was able to snap a great group shot (at least with two kids, it's a great shot). :)  We then headed to the aquarium and finally for some delicious dinner.  By then, the kids were zonked so we headed home.  Wednesday Nate had to work all day, but we headed to Hammock State Beach without him.  We took the boat out to Bear Island and enjoyed the gorgeous day. 

We picked up shells, went in the water, and then headed back to the boat.  We were blessed with a dolphin show as the boat returned to the park (although I didn't get any pictures).  It was spectacular though.  We enjoyed Nana being here so much, and her visit flew by.  We are so glad she was able to come stay with us for a few days (and Vicky)! 

I had one more picture, that doesn't fit in the blog, but I'm going to slip it in anyway.  Yesterday we went to Wilmington to go to Costco and Nate felt like Superdad....

I do realize Gunner has his finger so far up his nose it's kind of funny, but that goes back to my point of trying to get a good picture with two kids. :)  He is such a great daddy!