Christmas 2016 wasn't a very exciting day on the Outer Banks...except for the squeals of delight from children finding a perfect gift under tree.
It seemed almost deserted by the afternoon. There were almost no cars on the our streets and only few convenience stores were open.
Driveways, though were filled with cars and families poured out of their vehicles and into hugs and cries of joy of families reuniting.
When the Holiday Season is described as magical, perhaps this is what is meant—that the magic of families reuniting and the joy of children is a balm to concerns of everyday life. Perhaps the greatest gift is the gift we give ourselves, the knowledge that it is possible to know the simple joys of life and that for at least for one day or perhaps one week, it truly is a part of who we are.
Stores will open tomorrow. Bars and restaurants will be ready of locals and visitors who have come to the Outer Banks.
And that's the way it's supposed to be.
Yet there remains a lingering sense of joy and shared experience that stays with us for days after the holidays—whether the holiday being celebrated at this time of the year is Christmas or Chanukah.
It's a wonderful topic of conversation that seems to be almost be a greeting for the next few days.
In that way, the Outer Banks is much like any other place. We love talking about gifts and gift giving. We are happiest when we know that family is near, and the holiday season is a time to remember what is truly important in life.
The Outer Banks is truly a beautiful and unique place to live and visit. There is a splendor to the forces of nature at work here that is unlike any other place on earth.
The people who live here, though, and our visitors who come to enjoy an experience like on other, are like people everywhere—seeking the love of family and beauty of nature.
From the staff at Joe Lamb Jr., & Associates to our friends and families everywhere, we wish you the very best this holiday season.
