Memories that last.

Since I was 5 years old, Atlantic Beach has been my second home.

It is kind of a tradition in our family, to scream at the top of your lungs when you see the bridge.  "I SEE IT FIRST!  I SEE IT FIRST!!!"

As we climb the bridge, we anticipate getting to the top just so we can make a wish.  I have probably made a million wishes over the last 25 years.

With the windows rolled down, something happens when you go over that bridge to the island.

Life is not normal, everyday hustle and bustle.  Life is calm.  Life is relaxing.  Everything about you changes on the island.

I have made so many memories at the beach.  Now, I get to watch my kids make memories of their own.

We were in our first fishing tournament in July.

We fished the inshore division of the Barta Billfish Tournament.

We used Thursday as our lay-day, as we could only fish 2 of the 3 days.

We also used Thursday to relax on Shackleford Banks.

My girls have spent their whole lives at the beach.  I have never worried about them getting seasick because we have never been further than Shack.

With Bug getting sick on an airplane, I felt like the odds were against her.  Surprisingly, no one got sick!

Keep in mind, we did not get too far from land.  We were in the ocean but we could always see land.

The first day of fishing was a success.  Both girls brought in 3 bluefish each.  Emma held 3rd place in the bluefish category for one day.

First catch of the day.  Emma caught a lizardfish.

Resting.  7am comes way too early.

The girls with Tred Barta

Day 2, Big's goal was to catch a Spanish Mackerel.

Reeling in her 1st Spanish

Big did it!  She caught at .74 lb Spanish and that girl has never been more excited!

Bug brought in another bluefish and was proud of him too!

They were stoked because at the awards ceremony, Big got a medal for weighing in a Spanish.

AND they BOTH got a medal for weighing in Bluefish.  That is Buggy standing beside Tred.

The girls had an awesome time.  They are already planning on fishing again next year with Jay as their captain again.  They may have inherited his love of fishing.

My kids love the coast.  It is their happy place.  It is my happy place.  I just hope they grow up and appreciate it as much as I do.  I hope they know how lucky we are to live so close to one of the happiest places on Earth.

** Here's to making more beach memories that last forever.**