Blog #151~OBX Vacation
What is OBX? It’s an acronym for the Outer Banks. OBX is a 130-mile stretch of barrier islands just off the coast of North Carolina. Along this coastline you will find quaint towns, sleepy fishing villages, lighthouses and a beautiful coastline lined with dunes covered in sea oats.
It’s the place to go and unwind, let go of worries, and relax. The biggest decisions for me would be which swimsuit to put on along with what book and cold beverage to have in my hand.
For the past six years, our destination has been Duck, NC. My son Nick, is 22 years old and has Down syndrome and autism. He absolutely loves to come here. Vacations and travelling can be tough on our kids with special needs. Having a regular vacation spot gives Nick predictability. This in turn makes him feel secure, thus keeping his anxiety level down. New environments and being out of a routine can be tough for a person with special needs; especially autism. Anxiety can lead to serious meltdowns. We are fortunate to be able to return here to Nick’s Uncle and Aunt’s beach house. A place where Nick feels at home.
Nick and Uncle Ron at the crows nest…..
Nick is comfortable in their house and helps out by vacuuming and unloading the dishwasher. He loves swimming in the pool and soaking in the hot tub.
Nick with his “stim” of choice, the tappers. My beverage of choice; a Lime-A-Rita 🙂
Sensory issues related to autism can be another challenge on vacations. Nick struggles with the texture and unevenness of sand as well as extreme heat. It can be hit or miss getting him to even walk out to the beach. The weather conditions were just right this year, with mild 80 degree temps and a nice breeze to cut the heat. He did well hanging with us all on the beach a few times. He even dipped his toes in the surf; success!
The dynamic was different this year. We missed some family members including Nick’s grandparents, his brother and cousin. Health issues, a new job out of college and a summer internship kept them from coming. We missed having everyone together, along with the laughs and good times we’ve shared over the years here.
Nick and his brother Hank, OBX 2011
OBX 2011
OBX is where we let the stress fade as the waves washed away worries. We each find our ways to unplug; whether it’s fishing, biking, tennis, manicures, massages, swimming, sunbathing and cracking open a good summer read.
My book of choice, following the extraordinary journey of retired Secret Service Agent, Clint Hill with five Presidents. I highly recommend reading Five Presidents (#1 New York Times Best Selling Authors, Clint Hill with Lisa McCubbin)….
The book is finished on OBX vacation, 2016. Nick enjoyed his time there and still seems very happy. We will take back some great memories, new tan lines and a good feeling of being restored. That’s what is in my noggin this week.
~Teresa
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@Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism
@Down Syndrome With A Slice Of Autism
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#tjunnerstall
Down Syndrome with a Slice of Autism 
You are in my neck of woods, when you are visiting the OBX. Glad that you have somewhere to go on vacation and Nick is comfortable in Nick’s Aunt and Uncles beach house. I was able to get Noah out of the house today and go to Virginia Beach for a “Special Needs” SUP camp. He lasted 3 hours at the beach with is huge for him! Hoping Noah gets out tomorrow and goes. Love your posts!
Wow, three hours on the beach, way to go Noah! Thanks for reaching out and sharing with me. I’m so glad you love my posts, that makes my day! 🙂
TJ What a delightful post! I was sorry to hear Jim and Therese couldn’t make it😩 We visited them in late July and I know Jim was looking forward to OBX💚 Joleene
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