Dear Mother Perkins

Dear Mother Perkins,

Patrick and I have decided that we will rent our own Outer Banks vacation home this year rather than stay with the rest of the family in a large home. As you know, last year it did get a little stressful towards the end of the week and we prefer some privacy and some family time of our own. I know that "Boys will be boys" but I frankly do not understand how Patricia can let her children run wild all week. The soap soads in the hot tub was bad enough but when little Parker put sand in all our beds ... that was the last straw for me. I also, to be honest, will not miss cousin Albert's magic tricks either.

We have found a perfect place for us, located in Kill Devil Hills. The Croatan Surf Club complex is a luxury resort and sits on the Oceanfont. There are two pools--one outdoor and one indoors. The indoor pool is heated and open all year. There are also two spas, a beautiful Oceanfront Gazebo and a walkway to the beach.

In addition, our kids will have fun in the arcade room and I can work out in the fitness room. There are three bedrooms so it is just the right size. There are two king beds and a pyramid bunk--our twins are already figuring out who gets to sleep in the top bunk each night!

We had to make sure that no smoking and no pets were allowed because of Patrick's allergies and there are harwood floors throughout which is nice. The name of the flat --everything is on one level-- is The OBX Whale. It is on the fourth floor. There are elevators so we will not have to carry our suitcases up stairs. There are not views of the ocean from this particular condo but we will be able to see the Wright Brothers Monument and Millicent is very interested in anything to do with airplanes and flight so that is fine. The memorial is beautiful when lit up at night.

I have already read some good reviews of Outer Banks restaurants on a site called NCBeaches.com and we plan on trying Goombays, Mama Kwans, Chili Peppers and Sugar Creek. Of course we will go to Sam and Omie's --that has become a family tradition.

Village Realty manages many of the condos and townhomes in Croatan Surf Club and we found them very easy to work with. Perhaps you and Father Perkins will consider renting a place there as well. You can call Village at 800-548-9688. I was pleasantly surprised when I learned that all the linens and towels are provided and that they even make the beds before check in. I can start my vacation right away! Another thing that helped me make my decision is that the posted rates on their website include everything except NC taxes and the optional trip insurance (which we always buy). No surprises or sticker shock.

Well, that wraps it up. We are renting two weeks in July and I will call you later this week to see if you are interested in renting there too. If not, we will see you over the Easter holiday.

Best Regards,

Elena (your favorite daughter in law)