From Grits to Chopsticks

We just returned from a whirlwind visit to the States, working our way down the eastern seaboard from PA.  Laurie and Jeruid hosted us at their home during the first week while we adjusted to the new time zone.  Mark’s brother and sister (Jimmy and Barbara) brought their families together for some meals and fun:

In true American fashion, we went out to the shooting range after lunch, including Elijah with his own “baby-sized” earmuffs:

After spending time in PA, we drove south, stopping in NC to see Jean:

We stayed at Susan’s brother’s house in our old hometown in SC.  Susan’s mom got to visit with her great grandson:

We also spent a couple of days enjoying the hospitality of Chris and Dixie (Mark’s brother and sister in law) at their house on Lake Murray (a real treat to swim in warm, clean water!).  The two grandfathers took this chance to show off their progeny:By now, you’re probably thinking that every photo is basically just an excuse to show off our grandson Elijah (almost true).  We then went to Myrtle Beach and were joined by Stephen and Jessica, marking the first time in over 18 months where we were able to have our entire family together at the same time!  We were so thankful for this wonderful privilege.  We had good weather (hurricane Irene waited until the following week to force evacuations) and did most of the typical beach activities.  It took 20 years, but the two brothers are now about the same size:

Now, for another picture of Elijah (and his Nai Nai):

Stephen and Jessica are experts at geocaching, so we spent a morning eating donuts and finding five caches.  We found the last one at “Frick’s Park,” probably the smallest public park in the state of SC:

Myrtle Beach is the mini-golf capital of the world, and we always enjoy a little friendly competition.  Jeruid still won on the second day, even with his son strapped to his chest:

Susan and Mark enjoyed morning walks together on the beach, often finding interesting things washed up on shore:

We did take some time to go fishing and crabbing, but didn’t catch enough for a reasonable meal.  So we headed over to Bennett’s seafood buffet and stuffed ourselves:

Back on the beach the next day for some surfing lessons (it’s never too early):

The water was nice and warm, so we spent a lot of time playing in the waves:

We also took a stroll on the new boardwalk:

After our beach vacation came to an end, we flew to Atlanta for a quick weekend to move Timothy into his apartment at GA Tech.  Recognizing that we were about to leave the land of fattening food, Stephen was kind enough to treat us to brunch at a fancy place:

It was a great trip.  We are truly blessed to be able to spend such a good time with our family and friends.