Observations

I returned from a week long trip to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It was beautiful, relaxing, and necessary. We stayed all the way at the end of Hatteras Island in the town/village of Hatteras. I had plenty of time to think about things and here are some of those observations:

1) Dean gains strength in the Caribbean and I am heading to New Orleans on Thursday. Coincidence?
2) There are few places in America that retain an isolated feel. Despite the construction boom, the southern end of the Outer Banks seems to be able to retain this. I belief that this is in part due to the threat of hurricanes, the laid back attitude, and that it is hard to get to.
3) Spending time with family is fun, but it can be stressful.
4) I need to learn how to kite surf one day.
5) You really can't fish in dirty or really choppy water. Whether on a boat or on the shore into the surf.
6) Crabbing is done several different ways. Some are more difficult than others, but crabs keep children amazed for hours.
7) Nothing tastes quite as good as a crab that you caught yourself.
8) I talk about New Orleans waaaay too much.
9) Kayaking is fun.
10) High School Musical 2 is a good show.
11) Thank God for Sirius satellite radio. I was able to listen to the Saints game vs. Cincinnati last night on the way home.
12) Winning the Powerball lottery (at 210 million) would allow me to quit my job and move to New Orleans. The big plan (upon winning) would be to give money away to people who are trying to rebuild (no strings attached) and live permanently there.

And I am still trying to figure out my New Orleans schedule. I have some obligations but I also would like to try to get to the conference. Still not sure if it's possible.