Shells, Sand, and Sun

First, I want to start off and thank god for answering my prayers, my grandmother got her test results back and everything was perfect except for her extremely low thyroid and that can be fixed by medication. Thank you! I was so worried, we’re so lucky to have her!

Second, the beach was wonderful. This is the only place where I can take my mind off of things and truly relax. Mom and I walked 3 hours searching for sea shells; we ended up bringing a basket full home. (If I were a doctor I would prescribe going to the beach and collecting shells for depression.) We found all types, beaded periwinkles, lion paws, sand dollars, and the biggest cockle shells. It was fun seeing mom search for shells since she hasn’t had much beach time in her life, we both were raised on a cattle ranch and the beach was miles away from Oklahoma. Never would we dream of living so close! Hope everyone enjoys their weekend! Spring is around the corner!

Mom and Joe

Mom and I :)

Thing's from the SEA

The Starfish 

Last year while in Orange Beach I fell in love with this silver starfish necklace, I didn't buy it.  I have been thinking of this necklace ever since.  Our wedding symbol is the starfish.  I will give you the short version story of how the Starfish got to be the symbol of our wedding.  1) We were married on the beach and I had decorated with real starfish, they were everywhere 2) I gave a starfish to each of our wedding guests with rock candy tied around it the colors of the ocean. 3) While on our honey moon we found a starfish laying on the Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy..NO JOKE I swear it was a sign! So every time I see a starfish I think of us.  While browsing the stores this week I found the necklace I wanted last year! I bought it and have been wearing it everyday! I love it!

The Ruby Red Shrimp

I have become addicted to Alabama's Ruby Red.  They are huge, delicious, and I have ate my weight in them.  I just ate my last one for breakfast.  

My Favorite thing for Breakfast

This is what Jim and I eat most weekends for breakfast.  I have been eating this and shrimp all week.  I might turn into a mermaid shortly.  

LAX

You will need a toasted bagel, smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and onions.  It's simple and delicious! :) 

Beach Cottage (CONDO)

(Shrimp Cocktail Bowl)

Shrimp that when in the cute bowl

Bar

Master Bedroom

(Guest Room)

The Emerald Coast

Tomorrow we leave for Destin.  Jim has entered the Emerald Coast Classic Bill Fish Tournament...I told him I should go since I know how to win but he didn't fall for it.  Brandi and I found a condo on the beach and I'm sure most of our days will be laying out on the sand.  I will take pictures, Destin has beautiful beaches. 

We also have found a water park we might go to, I love lazy rivers and slides.  It's called Big Kahuna's.  The only thing I have a problem with is I'm sure there are millions of rug rats running around since school is out.  You know they pee every chance they can get in all the pools. 

My favorite thing to do when I'm out of town is eat out.  I plan my whole day around lunch and dinner.  I will be eating all the fresh seafood I can eat.  There is this great restaurant in Destin that serves fresh shrimp, fish, and sushi rolls.  They even have a Cowboy Roll which is a steak sushi..sounds nasty but it's quite tasty.  I will eat a shrimp for all of you :)  The restaurant is located out on a fishing dock.  So you know the fish is fresh.  You can see the boats coming in an unloading there catch for the day.  I can't wait! :)

 Tonight I will cook on my EGG one last time before he gets a break.  I will make balsamic vinegar glazed steaks with garlic mashed potatoes.  Baby Bear I'm sure will watch since he knows the suitcase is out.  It will be a short trip this time.  I am excited about the Beach.  Destin by far is the best tournament spot.  Cant WAIT!