Thanksgiving on the Beach

I enjoyed a Thanksgiving holiday unique in every way this year. I felt  uncertain about being hundreds of miles from home outside the comfort of my kitchen filled with smells of spices and goodies baking. But, I think I could grow to love repeating a new Thanksgiving tradition absent of the week-long baking frenzy, days of preparation that include washing, ironing, carpet cleaning, polishing, shopping - and so much more.

During our vacation we hit the beaches and shops along the Outer Banks. We watched kites sail in blue skies above the ocean, dolphins frolic close to shore and anglers reel in their catches. We visited lighthouses. And, of course, we collected seashells.  

We dined at the Outer Banks Brewery Station the day before Thanksgiving. The festive Christmas garland and wreaths under dim lighting and candles created a delicious ambiance. The light jazz music made a perfect backdrop for dinner after a full day of shopping and touring.

The lighthouses thrilled me to bits. The Bodie Island Lighthouse is located on the Outer Banks just north of the Oregon Inlet. It's a working lighthouse with a beam that extends 19 miles. The Currituck Lighthouse was built in 1875. It is also has a working beam that extends about 18 miles.

As much as I enjoy home for the holidays, I must give serious consideration to restructuring our future Thanksgivings. It seems almost a no-brainer trading stress for serenity.