C.S.S. Neuse

The CSS Neuse was one of 22 ironclads commissioned by the Confederate navy. Having a wide, flat bottom, the vessel resembled a river barge. When completed, the twin-screw steamer was plated with iron armor and measured 158 feet long and 34 feet wide. Delays in construction, low water, and lack of ground support prevented the gunboat from entering combat below Kinston. When Union troops occupied Kinston in March 1865, the Neuse was burned by its crew, resulting in a large explosion in her port bow, which sank the vessel.

Rocky Mount Children's Museum

We also visited a children's museum. Even though the museum itself was closed, we found a neat stage with dress up clothes.

No need to tell my kiddos to pose!

They are such hams. Love them!

Ripley's Aquarium

While in Myrtle Beach, we visited Ripley's Aquarium. The kids had fun seeing all the fish, sharks, turtles, and other water animals. Just about every picture is of their backs looking into the various tanks!

Individual Pictures

Wow, its hard to get great pictures on a beach! Your fighting wind, sand, cold air, patience, and a mommy that takes too many pictures! Thanks kids for letting me do my thing!

Pool Pictures

As expected the pool was a hit. It took Payton a little while to get used to the water but eventually she did fine.

Beach pictures

No joke these pictures were taken at 8:30 in the morning! It was a beautiful morning to play on the beach. Oh did I forget to mention the pool didn't open until 9:00!

This is what happens...

These are the faces of kids who stayed up till midnight, but woke up at 7:00 to go swimming!

Happy New Year

We arrived at the beach New Year's Eve. It was so fun. The kids got to swim before ringing in the new year. There were fire works on the beach and plenty of late night activities! This year the kids loved staying up and celebrating. I did have to wake Payton though! She even tried some sparkling juice! Happy new year everyone!

Plane Ride

After Christmas we were on on way to North Carolina to visit with Josh's family. The kids loved the plane ride and did super during the whole trip!

One happy boy and girl!

Bet you thought this was going to be another picture of the kids! Mommy and Daddy got what they asked for too! Josh got a Keurig and I got a Sewing machine! Thanks mom and dad!

Christmas morning sorta!

With Josh having to be at church Christmas morning by 8:30, we decided to do "christmas morning" on Saturday morning. It was fun getting up with the kids and having breakfast and opening presents. My parents and sisters had sent things also but we decided to do their things on Sunday. It was a great weekend with the family. The kids are starting to understand the meaning of Christmas which makes the time even more special!

Christmas Eve