A much-anticipated, long weekend get-away

This weekend has been planned for, well a year and a half if you want to get technical. In September 2007 Craig and I and his folks spent a week in Myrtle Beach, SC together, a first for all of us. We were not able to trade into the Marriott property here (which of course we wanted to do) but we loved our week in this area anyway. Craig and I immediately knew we wanted to come back. So once we visited the Marriott Ocean Watch, right on the beach and purchased a coupon which entitled us to come stay here for 3 nights for $99, we started planning for a chance to come use it. Well, it took awhile to get it on the schedule (a mild understatement) and now, here we are.

We were able to fly here which certainly helps us to make the most of our time rather than driving. We were up EARLY this morning in order to take the metro down to National Airport in order to make our 8:45 a.m. flight. We didn't get much sleep. The fact that we hadn't begun packing as of 10:00 p.m. last night might have something to do with it! We flew into Charlotte and then caught a connecting flight to Myrtle Beach. On that second leg of the trip I think we were in the air 25 minutes. Nice!

We arrived at the resort at noon, after picking up our rental car and checking out the local Costco on the way in. And yes, a hot dog for lunch. Okay, not very original, but a consistent choice for the Harveys. We are in an oceanfront villa and can see the beach and the waves from our bedroom and balcony. This is a 2 bedroom unit and could sleep 8 people. But we have it all to ourselves :)

Craig checked in with work for a little bit and Jeannie took a much needed nap. Then Craig went to work out in the fitness center (he says it's awesome) and Jeannie caught up with e-mail. Together we went outside to the heated pool and hot tub. Yes, it was a little chilly out there (maybe 65 with a stiff breeze) and yes, we were the ONLY ones out there but it was wonderful. I took a few pictures as you will see.

We have some gift cards with us and went to Carrabbas for dinner. Yummy and very filling. There are many great restaurants right near the resort. Now we are back and ready to continue our LOST marathon :) We are nearing the end of Season 1.

We are grateful for this get-away and will pack as much into 4 days as we can. We fly back on Monday afternoon.