**sunday morning, 10/18**
Sunday brought a much warmer start to the day along with the return of a cloudless blue sky. The weatherman getting it right was a relief as we had booked ahead to try kayaking something new for the crew...
...and for Mama as well.
It was a little crowded and chaotic at first as everyone got launched and figured out basic paddle control.
But soon enough most everyone figured out how to effectively use their paddles and we began to make our way down Jean Guite Creek in the Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve.
In the beginning the creek passed by several houses.
Before long though we were quietly paddling in the unique maritime forest.
Our guide was quick to point out how the presence of both salt and freshwater in the area created a forest with cypress trees mixed in with freshwater trees like oaks and maples. Invasive species like Spanish Moss were pointed out.
We also got a pirate story in the colorful explanation for the name Kill Devil Hills. Apparently pirates referred to rum as strong enough to 'kill the devil.' And as we all know, the treacherous Atlantic off the coast of the Outer Banks is notorious for shipwrecks. At some point a ship running rum from the Caribbean to ports north wrecked and the barrels washed up on the dunes in that area. The name Kill Devil Hills was born. Actual history? Who knows. But it's a fun story...
While I think our teens would have preferred paddling in more choppy waters, it was a perfect introduction for the younger set, despite the occasional overwhelming scent of the brackish water.
The covered bridge provided a nice backdrop and a good place to pause for a moment and soak in the serenity and beauty of the area.
Tandem kayaking isn't the easiest thing to master, but in the end Nicholas and I got into a pretty good rhythm.
After our two hour adventure, bellies were empty and it was time to head back to the house to refuel.
I should have kept up with how many games of OBX-opoly were played. Seriously, how many times can you play an "opoly" game in a lifetime?
My boys would point to thousands...
Ky did a little research for a project...
...Nat and DQ played some cards, and Mom just chilled.
Some downtime was necessary to prepare for the afternoon adventure...another first for our family!
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